How to Build a Gift Registry
Whether you are beginning a new life with your future spouse or having a baby, it is customary to put together a gift registry. Gift registries are lists of items needed or wanted by the couple or family. Registries are usually bound to a particular store or chain so that friends and family members can shop for the items in the shop or online. Registries also give guests an idea of what you need and help prevent duplicate purchases of any items.
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Instructions
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Decide on what you need. If, between the two of you, you have two sets of pots and pans and two canteens of cutlery, eschew the traditional items from your list. After all, wedding and baby registries are intended to make life easier for you at an expensive time of your life. Therefore, it's important to only register for things you need rather than the expected kitchen utensils.
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Register for items spanning a variety of prices. This will give your less financially affluent friends a chance to give you a gift, too. Otherwise, you may find that they feel unable to participate. However, do not register for two things in different price ranges. For instance, do not put expensive and inexpensive towels on your list. Stick with one item so you don't get multiples of anything.
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Be frivolous and select things that you usually wouldn't buy for yourself. Chances are that some of your guests will enjoy getting you nonessential gifts, such as a waffle maker or embroidered sheets. Because this is one of the only times when people will be showering these kinds of gifts upon you, it is best to embrace it.
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Do your research. For items that are particularly pricey, such as coffee makers and mixers, read critical and customer reviews before putting it on your registry. If the steel discolors or if the knobs are finicky, don't put it on the list. You want items that are going to last you for a long time rather than their less expensive counterparts.
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Use non-traditional registry methods if you have everything you need for your home. For instance, if you and your fiancé want to learn ballroom dancing or go on an extravagant honeymoon, set up an online registry where guests can pay for activities. Another acceptable method is to ask that your guests support a charity close to your heart. Remember, though, that more traditional guests may find this crass, so be prepared to receive an iron or a toaster instead.
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Tips & Warnings
Register before sending the invitations for your wedding or baby shower. This will give your guests a chance to select a gift as soon as they hear the happy news. However, do not allude to the registry on your stationery.
Keep your guest numbers in mind when registering. For instance, if you have 100 guests, you will need a minimum of 125 items on your registry to ensure that there are enough gifts to go around.
Keep track of who sent you what gift and write prompt thank you notes to each person within a day or two.
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