Creating a wedding registry is an exciting step in your wedding planning journey. It's your chance to tell your guests exactly what you want, making gift-giving easier and more meaningful for everyone. But while a registry can help ensure you get the items you need or want, there are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and successful experience.

Wedding Registry Do's:

1. Do Create a Diverse List

When building your wedding registry, it's essential to include a wide range of items to suit all of your guests’ budgets. Offer everything from kitchen appliances to affordable yet stylish decor. This variety ensures that everyone can find something they feel comfortable purchasing. Consider including:

• Kitchen Items: When creating your own place setting, offer the option to your guests to purchase one place setting or cherry pick individual items from your place setting.
• Home Decor: From elegant vases to cozy Barefoot blanket throws, these items make your home feel personal and stylish.
• Experience Gifts: Many couples now opt to register for experiences, such as cooking classes, wine tastings, or even honeymoon excursions. These gifts create memories that last longer than material things.

Including a range of items, both practical and aspirational, will give guests plenty of options to choose from while also ensuring you get what you truly need.

2. Do Personalize Your Registry

Make the registry reflective of your unique tastes and preferences. This is your chance to create a home together, so include items that truly align with your lifestyle and aesthetics. Whether it’s a minimalist set of dinnerware or a quirky piece of art for your wall, let your personalities shine through. Guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness behind your choices and may even feel more excited about giving you something personal.

3. Do Consider the Space You Have

Before you start adding everything you see to your registry, keep in mind the space available in your home. It’s easy to get carried away and think you need every kitchen gadget or decorative piece, but if you live in a smaller space, you’ll want to be selective. Choose items that will fit seamlessly into your existing décor and lifestyle. A smaller registry with thoughtfully chosen pieces will make for a much more practical home.

4. Do Set a Price Range for Different Guests

It’s helpful to establish a range of prices that cater to different budget levels. Some guests may want to splurge on a larger gift, while others may prefer to buy something more affordable. Having a balance of price points on your registry will make it easier for everyone to feel comfortable shopping for you. Offering gifts in various price ranges also makes it easier for guests to pick a gift that fits their budget while still feeling like they’re giving something meaningful.

Bonus Tip: Add gift cards to your registry for someone who wants to add a little extra something without breaking the bank!

5. Do Make Sure to Update Your Registry Regularly

A wedding registry isn’t a static list. As your wedding date approaches, you may receive some gifts before your big day or realize that certain items are out of stock. Make sure to keep your registry updated. This can include removing items that have already been purchased, adding new items that catch your eye, or adjusting quantities for certain items. If you have a dedicated bridal registry consultant, let them know if you’d like gifts removed from your registry or increase quantities for items if your original registered quantity has been purchased.

6. Do Include Group Gifts

For higher-ticket items like a vacation fund or a large kitchen appliance, consider offering the option for group gifting. This allows multiple people to contribute toward a larger item, making it more attainable for your guests. It’s a great way to ensure you can receive those big-ticket items without relying on just one person to buy them.

Wedding Registry Don’ts:

1. Don’t Forget to Register for Both Practical and Fun Gifts

While it’s important to include functional items like towels, glassware, and bedding, don’t forget about the fun stuff! A wedding registry is also a chance to register for things that will add personality and joy to your home, such as art, games, or fun gadgets. Think of things you’ll enjoy as a couple or that will add a touch of whimsy to your life. If you focus too heavily on the practical, you may end up with a home full of necessities that don’t have any personality or flair.

2. Don’t Register for Too Many Items

While it might seem tempting to add dozens or even hundreds of items to your registry, less is more when it comes to the number of gifts you request. Too many options can overwhelm guests and make it difficult for them to know what to choose. A smaller, well-curated list will make gift selection easier and more enjoyable for everyone. Focus on the things you really need or want, and leave space for your guests to surprise you with thoughtful additions.

3. Don’t Register for Items You Don’t Need or Want

It’s important to be honest about what you need and want. Registering for items simply because you think you “should” can lead to unwanted gifts or duplicate items. If you have a perfectly good set of silverware already, there’s no need to register for another set just because everyone else seems to. Instead, focus on the things you’ll truly use and appreciate in your daily life.

4. Don’t Make the Registry All About You

Although the wedding registry is about you and your partner, keep in mind that your guests want to feel like they’ve contributed something special. Avoid creating a registry that feels too self-indulgent or out of reach. For example, registering for expensive luxury items only could alienate guests who want to give something thoughtful but can’t afford the prices. Instead, balance the more lavish items with options that feel personal but accessible.

5. Don’t Forget to Thank Your Guests

The final “don’t” is a simple but important one: don’t forget to show gratitude! After your wedding, be sure to send thank-you notes to everyone who gifted you something. Personalize your notes whenever possible, mentioning how you plan to use or display the gift. A thoughtful thank-you can go a long way in showing appreciation for your guests’ kindness and generosity.

Your wedding registry is a reflection of your new life together as a couple. It’s a tool to help make your transition into married life smoother and your home more beautiful. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll ensure that your registry is as thoughtful, practical, and fun as your upcoming celebration.

Chêne Blanc offers a curated bridal registry experience for both local and out-of-town brides. Your dedicated bridal consultant is available to make your registry process as seamless as possible for you and your fiancé. If you’re ready to registry, you can learn more about our process here.