BUILDING YOUR WEDDING REGISTRY

5 HELPFUL TIPS FOR STARTING YOUR NEW JOURNEY TOGETHER

By Kathryn York

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATTED CAT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH JOI

So, you’re getting married! Once the ring is on the finger, and you’ve officially announced your engagement to the world, one of the next most anticipated parts of the journey is the wedding registry. Before you begin shopping and scanning, here are five tips to help you get started.

1 CONSIDER ALTERNATIVES TO FINE CHINA

We get it ... it’s considered “tradition” to register for fine china for your wedding. But, china can be a higher priced item that you may only receive a few pieces of instead of a full set. Though china is excellent for an established home and for couples who love to entertain, it may not be the most practical gift for newlyweds. If you are in a starter home, you may not have the space to store dishes that you won’t use every day. Also, keep in mind that style preferences change over time, and china is something that tends to become more of an heirloom that sits in a cabinet than something you can truly use and enjoy on a regular basis.

Suggestion:

Mix solid color dinner plates and with patterned bowls, salad plates, or dessert plates that can be changed out seasonally or as preferences change over time.

2 INCLUDE LIFESTYLE ITEMS

When setting up gift registries, the most common categories are often kitchen, bed, and bath essentials. However, there are multiple things to consider when setting up your new home and life together. Don’t forget lifestyle gifts that appeal to your personal interests. From books and journals to collectible or hobbyrelated items, select items that will complement your lifestyle as a couple.

Suggestion:

For example, a couple who are outdoor enthusiasts might register for a tent, sleeping bags, or hiking gear. Or, a couple who likes to travel might register for new luggage or travel accessories.

3 DON’T FORGET THE GROOM!

Ladies, we all know that when it comes to shopping, we usually make the decisions, right? However, shopping for a wedding registry should be about cleverly and carefully combining his and her styles and preferences. Bigger gift items should obviously involve both parties, but when it comes to items like barware, candles, or even daily practical small appliances, don’t be afraid to pass the scanner to your groom.

Suggestion:

Let the groom lead the way with the following items: bar cart accessories, such as glassware or decanters, and small appliances like coffee makers or toasters.

4 STACK YOUR REGISTRY WITH MULTIPLE PRICE POINTS

Not everyone can spend $200 plus on registry gifts. Make sure you have plenty of items within the $50-$100 range and a good variety under $50 as well. When choosing items for your registry, don’t discount the smaller items under $20. Some guests may prefer to buy and pair together three or four lesser-priced items rather than one higher-priced gift. Guests may also be interested in purchasing a smaller item to wrap along with a gift card or certificate.

Suggestion:

Add to your registry lower-priced items like serving spoons, kitchen towels, bathroom accessories, frames, or your favorite candles.

5 PREPARE THE WAY FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY

Above all, register for items you love and that you choose together. Don’t be afraid to think beyond tradition and consider all aspects of your new life together. No matter what gifts you receive, this is a truly special time for you as a couple, so make the most of your engagement season and all the memorable experiences it brings. n

KATHRYN YORK is the co-owner of Smith & York Co. and Lime & Loaf in downtown Columbia, Tennessee. Learn more about Smith & York Co. by visiting smithandyork.co and Lime & Loaf by visiting limeandloaf.com.