Your registry begins long before the wedding day. There are many events that surround your wedding and your guests will want to be able to purchase gifts they know you want. Once the big day comes and goes, there are still tasks you'll need to complete. Follow our timeline to find out what you should be doing and when.
6 – 12 Months Before Wedding
- Open your registry account at a retailer you think best suits your guests. Find out what you need to consider when deciding where to register.
- Assess your current living environment to determine what exactly you need and create a preliminary list.
- If you have a wedding website, add the retailers you've selected.
3 – 6 Months Before Wedding
- If you haven't already, be sure to include items in various categories and price points.
- This is a good time to update your list if you already have one started. It's possible you'll need to add more items or even make changes to out-of-season stock.
2 – 3 Months Before Wedding
- Review the final list and finalize any items that are seasonal.
- Start letting your wedding party or family spread by word of mouth where you and your mister are registered. Get more wedding registry etiquette tips here.
6 – 8 Weeks Before Wedding
- It's time to update your registry one last time before sending out invitations. As soon as your guests receive the invite they will start looking for gift ideas.
4 Weeks Before Event
- Confirm the address where items are to be shipped is updated, especially if you and your mister are moving into a new home
- Continue to monitor your registry, adding more items in different categories and price ranges. Your guests will appreciate the variety!
4 Weeks After Event
- It's time to send out thank-you cards! Some online registries offer an online tracker, so you know whom you have and haven't thanked. Find out how to send the perfect thank you.
Up to 6 Months After the Event
- If you still want something you registered for, but never received it, some stores offer a discount on these items. Consider buying them now!
Up to 12 Months After the Event
- Keep your registry active for up to a year after the wedding, especially if you said "I do" abroad. Friends or family may want to use the registry to buy you a gift.
Not sure why you should register in the first place? Find out why you should register here.












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