Wedding Etiquette For Dummies
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Using a wedding gift registry makes it easy for friends and family to shop. Registering for wedding gifts is fun, but remember your etiquette! Consideration is key, whether you're working with the gift consultant, settling matters of differing taste with your beloved, or choosing your items with a range of prices in mind:

  • Call ahead and make an appointment with the registry consultant at each store where you choose to register. Always be patient with and kind to consultants because they’re often being pulled in different directions by the many couples they’re trying to help.

  • List items in different price ranges on each of your registries. Many national stores have lots of fun and useful, less expensive gadgets that make great gifts. Of course, it’s okay to register for some pricier items, as well; often friends and family go together to purchase one larger, more expensive item, such as a new grill. Don’t be concerned with having too many items on each list; your guests will appreciate having options to fit any budget. Besides, you have engagement parties and bridal showers, plus the wedding! Feel free to register for more gifts than the number of guests who will attend the wedding.

  • Feel free to list “gift cards welcome” on your registry.

  • Try to register together with your spouse-to-be or at least discuss each other’s likes and dislikes before registering. Be respectful of your different tastes!

  • Let your family and wedding party spread the word about where you’re registered. Noting where you’re registered, as well as any gift alternatives, such as contributions to charities, on your bridal shower invitation and wedding Web site, is also acceptable.

  • Check your registries throughout your engagement period (especially two weeks before and one week before your wedding), and add items as needed. If the pricier items are the only ones left, be sure to add some less expensive items.

  • Keep a detailed list of who sent gifts as you receive them; also keep the enclosure card and receipt for each gift. This organization makes writing and sending thank-you notes much easier — and hopefully provides an incentive to start writing thank-you notes immediately.

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Sue Fox is the author of Etiquette For Dummies and Business Etiquette For Dummies. She is the founder and president of The Etiquette Survival Group, a California-based professional development and publishing company.

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