DOs and DON'Ts of Bridal Registry

I found a great article on wedding registry “DON’Ts” on CNN’s website. It’s straight to the point about the things you should and shouldn’t worry about while registering. There are great tips - from making sure your groom is involved (even if it’s just a little), to what to do if you receive something you don’t want or need.

I’ve also put together some helpful “DOs” and additional “DON’Ts” to also keep in mind while registering. Check them out below:

1. Do be organized.
It’s easy to get scanner-happy, and start scanning items you may not have been planning on wanting beforehand, so make sure to keep a list of what you want and what you have already registered for. That way, you won’t end up with three of the same wine glass sets.

2. Don’t choose too many stores.
It’s perfectly fine to register at more than one store, but don’t overdo it. Giving your guests up to four registries to choose from is a great idea; try choosing one store for china, one for furniture, one for bedding, etc.

3. Do make a day of it.
Registering can be very stressful, and that’s why you shouldn’t rush through it. Make sure to plan to be in the store or seated at your computer for a long time (or at least a few hours). To help make it more fun, treat yourself and your partner to a nice meal before or after to congratulate yourselves on a job well done.

4. Don’t follow the trends.
The seasonal items may look great right now, but in a few months time (especially if your wedding is many months away) they may be out of style, or out of stock. It’s best to register for items you know will still be in the stores by the time your guests decide to start purchasing. Try to keep it classic, and you won’t go wrong.

5. Do register for what you want.
Even though it is smart to keep classic choices in mind while registering, it is becoming popular to register for interesting items, too. Even if your guests might not want to pitch in for your honeymoon suite, you can still register for it!

6. Don’t be picky, be gracious.
If a guest buys you a surprise gift that you don’t like, try not to stress over it. You may find that in time, it will be in style, or can be used in the household. Make sure to thank them as graciously as you would for a gift you love.

7. Do know the return policies.
Make sure to check the return policies of the stores you are registering with. Some stores allow returns for up to three months after the wedding, but some have earlier dates. A few stores have even been known to set the return date for the day of the wedding!

8. Don’t forget to send thank-you cards.
After the honeymoon is over—literally—you and your other half should get yourselves ready to thank everyone who supported you during the wedding, and especially those who took the time to pick out a gift. Hand-written cards always seem more personal, but keep it simple by thanking them for attending and/or their gift. By keeping the message short and sweet with a personal touch, your guests will appreciate your gratitude.