My Top 6 Wedding Registry Tips
This blog post has been on my “idea list” for years now and since my best friend is engaged now, I thought it was a good time to collect my thoughts for her and for any of my other engaged friends. I joke that I wish we could get remarried but it’s solely because I would do my registry differently. I think registries also vary depending on where you are in your life when getting married. If you’re young twenties and just starting out vs a little older and already have most household needs. So here is just a list of things I wish I had considered when we registered 5 years ago!
Tip #1 – and My biggest regret – GET ALL NEUTRALS (white, tan, gray, black)
In our last house I used a lot of red, so I registered for red baking dishes, pot holders/towels, kitchen tools, etc. I didn’t find any dishes I loved so we just got some to add to our current collection and now I want to replace everything for neutrals.
So learn from me: If I could do over, I would register for all white dishes and baking dishes, serving dishes, etc. White will never go out of a style.
Tip #2 – Don’t be afraid to register for quality items
I am frugal when it comes to my money and was even more frugal before I was married. I struggled with registering for quality items when there were cheaper options available. THIS IS THE TIME to get the quality stuff!
Tip #3 – Find a Local/Unique Store to Add as a Registry Option
I felt disappointed when I was registering because I felt like it was all the same stuff. I wish I had found a local store that carried more unique items to register for.
Tip #4 – Don’t feel obligated to register for China
Unless you plan on hosting fancy dinners, china isn’t really necessary. I didn’t register for china and have never once regretted it in 5 years. I’m a casual person so my normal dishes or paper plates work just fine for us! 🙂 If I want china years down the road I can buy used, thrift or collect it then. If not, I would have just been storing it all this time with no plans or intentions of using it.
Tip #5 – Don’t be afraid to register for larger or more expensive items
If there is something on the higher priced side that you really want, register for it! Those items can be perfect for hostess gifts or for groups of people to come together and get you! This was my Kitchenaid Mixer, all the hostesses of one of my showers got me this and I’m so glad! I know I would have never gotten a KitchenAid if I hadn’t gotten it then!
Tip #6 – Pass on the Spice Racks
It sounds nice to have a nice spice rack with a holder and matching containers but ours has sat unused for almost 5 years with the exception of a few times. I think part of the reason is because I don’t like to have it on the counter and it doesn’t fit in our cabinets. I’ve found I’d rather just buy the spice separately and buy what we need or what we use.
Married friends – what are some things you wish you had done differently with your wedding registry? I’d love to hear in the comments! For all my engaged friends, I hope you find these tips helpful and Happy Planning!!!