GIFT REGISTRY

Traditionally, wedding and shower gifts were designated to furnish a first home, but today’s lifestyle is more contemporary. Many couples live together before tying the knot, and second marriages are on the rise. These couples are blending two households with furnishings.

Guests are very appreciative of couples who register. This makes their gift giving experience much more time efficient and enjoyable. Bridal registry is a free service offered by most specialty and department stores to engaged couples. Registering should be a joint effort between both you and your fiancé.

Don’t limit yourself to one store. Register at your favorite specialty shops and department stores. When you register include a minimum of one national chain store to accommodate your out-of-town guests.

Most department stores and discount department stores that have a bridal registry are computerized. This makes the process very quick and easy. You will be given a hand-held computerized device. This will allow you and your fiancé to wander about the store entering items you would like to receive.

Register for items in several different price categories. A guest may want to add an inexpensive item to their gift or your office friends may choose to give a more expensive item as a group.

All stores that offer a bridal registry will supply you with cards identifying that you are registered at that store. It is proper etiquette to include these cards in your shower invitations but not in your wedding invitations. Another way of informing guests is to have your families and friends spread the word.