From when to register for wedding gifts to where to register for wedding gifts, brides and grooms need to learn everything about store policies for gift returns and exchanges as well as how to notify guests of where they've registered. Here are the answers to the three most-asked wedding registry questions:
Q. How many stores are appropriate to select when it's time to register? I only want a few quality items from certain specialty stores. I don't want to seem picky and greedy if I register at more than three different stores.
A. Yes, you can register at more than one store, and no, you won't seem greedy. The tricky part is making sure that your bridal party and parents know exactly where you're registered to get the word out (remember, word of mouth is the only appropriate way to inform guests where you've registered). Also keep in mind that if you spread your registries too thin, you may find yourself with very few items from each store. Otherwise, your idea is very appropriate -- why not register for things you truly want? You're the bride -- take pride in being picky!
Q. My fiance and I recently registered at two department stores, and we're having a bit of a problem when it comes to letting guests know where we're registered. I'm not having a bridal shower, and I'm definitely not going to send registry cards in the invitations, so my question is: How do we let people know?
A. The only way to let people know is to tell them. It may seem impractical and frustrating -- to wait for people to ask -- but there it is. Just make sure your parents, wedding party, and other close friends and family know where you're registered, so that when people ask them they can let them know. People know to ask someone when they're ready to buy you a present. And remember that if people ask you where you're registered -- or even what you would like as a gift -- it's okay for you to tell them the names of the stores. Also, consider having a weddings website -- the perfect place to let guests know about all the extras like where you're registered. By and large, you shouldn't worry about it too much. People will ask and let others know.
Q. Is it proper etiquette to send a wedding gift to the bride and groom's home prior to the wedding, or to bring the gift to the reception?
A. Send the gift to their home (or whatever shipping address they list in their registry) before or after the wedding. That way, you won't have to lug the gift to the reception and they won't have to worry about keeping track of it and getting it home after the party. However, in some regions of the country (especially parts of the South and Midwest), it's still traditional to bring gifts to the reception. If you're unsure, don't be shy about asking the bride's mom, the maid of honor, or anyone else who might be in the know.
-- The Knot
Photo: Antonis Achilleos/The Knot
RELATED LINK: Get the ultimate registry checklist