Some wedding planning tasks can feel more like a chore (hello, seating charts!) – but putting your gift registry together? Well, that’s one task you can actually enjoy.
These days, the options are endless when it comes to gift registry ideas. But before you start building your dream wedding registry, it’s worth thinking about what you actually need, and how to make the gift-giving process as easy as possible for your guests.
Not sure where to begin? Read on as we share 8 tips for creating the best wedding registry below.
Get Your Timing Right
While it’s easy to get swept up in the craziness of wedding planning, try not to leave your gift registry until the last minute. Instead, we’d recommend putting a registry together in the early stages of your engagement.
Why? Well, there are two types of guests – punctual guests who want to purchase your wedding gift well in advance, and guests who’ll procrastinate until closer to the day. Creating your gift registry early makes it convenient for your punctual guests – plus, your registry can then be used for pre-wedding events such as your engagement party and bridal shower, too.
Do an Inventory Check
Before you sit down to build your gift registry, we’d recommend taking some time to do an inventory check of your home. Go through your drawers, clear out those pantry cupboards and figure out where there are gaps to be filled. This way, you’ll avoid ending up with more “stuff” and can use your registry for the things you genuinely want or need for the future.
You can check out our ultimate gift registry checklist here as a reference!
Think Outside The Box
Your wedding gift registry should ultimately be tailored to you, your partner and your relationship. Don’t feel pressured to add “traditional” gifts to your registry like china sets and crystal glassware if that simply isn’t your style. Instead, think outside the box and add items that make sense for your relationship. For example: gardening kits, wine subscriptions or restaurant vouchers!
Cater to Different Budgets
When putting your gift registry together, it’s important to consider your guests and their budgets. While some of your closest loved ones may be excited to splurge on an heirloom item for you, others will prefer some more affordable options. It’s best practice to include a wide range of items at different price points to cater for your entire guest list.
Include Plenty of Options
Along with including a range of different budgets, you’ll also want to make sure you have ample items on your registry list. A good rule of thumb is to take your guest list, double it, and then add a few extras. It’s not about being “greedy” – it’s about making sure your guests have plenty of options, especially if your registry is being used for other wedding events, too.
Be sure to check your registry regularly leading up to your wedding, and add more items if needed. People love having choices and will honestly appreciate it!
Make It Easy For Your Guests
Save your guests the hassle of hunting down your gift registry by including a direct link on your wedding website. Be thoughtful with your gift registry wording, and make sure your guests know that gifts definitely aren’t expected – your registry is simply there for those who are interested.
You can say something like:
“We are lucky enough to already have nearly everything we need for this new chapter together! However, for those who have expressed an interest, we have created a gift registry for your convenience here: (link)”
If you have multiple items on your wishlist, consider creating a universal wedding registry that allows you to add items from different stores in one convenient place. We’ve rounded up the best wedding gift registry platforms for products you actually want here!
Consider a Honeymoon Fund
Already have everything you need for married life together? A “honeymoon fund” might be a better fit for your needs. Online platforms like Hitchd make it easy for your guests to make a monetary donation in lieu of a physical gift, and can even be used to fund specific experiences for your honeymoon.
Ps – you can use our code “WEDSITES” for 30% off your one-time fee with Hitchd.
Alternatively, you could set up a “wishing well” at your wedding for guests to leave their cards on the day. You’ll want to mention this on your wedding website by saying something like:
“Please know your presence on our wedding day is the greatest present we could ask for. However, should you wish to honour us with a gift, a contribution to our honeymoon would be greatly appreciated. A wishing well will be available on the day”
Don’t Forget Your Thank You’s
After the big day has been and gone, don’t forget to send a thank you card or message to your guests – ideally, within 3 months of your wedding.
Use your thank you card to show your appreciation for their gift, with a personal note on how you plan to use it or what you love about it.
For example:
“Thank you so much for sharing our special day with us, and for your thoughtful gift. We can’t wait to bring out the crystal glassware at our next dinner party!”
Share Your Gift Registry With Ease
Here at WedSites, we’ve made it super simple to communicate your gift registry details with guests with our custom wedding website builder. You can check out our beautiful range of wedding website templates here, or sign up for your free account to get started!
