From kitchen specialty stores to large department stores and even online gift registries, deciding where you should register is more overwhelming than ever. However, we've narrowed it down to a checklist of 10 things you should consider before you start scanning.
1. Make an Inventory. What do you have? What do you need? If you and your mister already live together, chances are you have tons of home essentials. Decide if you need to replace or upgrade certain things, or would rather ask for more specialty items. If you're starting from scratch, a store that offers a large selection is definitely called for.
2. Scope out the Options. You two probably didn't decide on your venue without checking it out first, and it's a good idea to visit a handful of stores before you commit so you can find out what's out there.
3. Assess the Selection. What does the store offer? Do they have a variety of brands and products? What are the price points? Remember, your guests need options, too.
4. Ease of Purchasing. Will making a purchase at the store be easy for your guests? Can they browse or purchase items online? What about guests that are out of town? It's best to include at least one registry spot that has a large retail presence. Older guests may not be comfortable shopping online and others prefer to shop in person.
5. Making Changes. You will likely need to update or change your registry at some point, so find out how easy it is for you to do that. Can you do it online? Do you have to go in and re-scan items? Choosing a convenient store may be a factor, as you may not want to go in every time you need to make a change.
6. Keep Track. Ensuring your guests' purchases are tracked efficiently is important. Find out how the retailer goes about tracking your items and if online updates are maintained regularly, too.
7. Exchanging Gifts. A big must is finding out the store’s policy on exchanges. How long is the exchange period? What are the terms? If you do receive duplicate items, you don't want to learn the day after your wedding that you only have a week to exchange!
8. How is Shipping Handled? Find out the retailer’s policy. Ideally, you want them to ship to the address you choose. This makes life easier for your guests, who won't have to go to the post office or store to pick up the gift.
9. Bonus Time. Many retailers offer benefits to couples that register with them. Some stores offer completion programs, meaning you can purchase the remaining items on your list at a discounted price.
10. Sign Up. Once you've browsed a handful of stores and decided on a few that meet the criteria, it's time to start shopping!
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Posted by Erin on December 11, 2009 at 2:49 p.m.
This makes it sound like there are so many registries in Canada to consider! When you need a place that all your out of town guests can access as well it's basically the big chains - Sears, HBC, and Walmart.
Posted by Monet on January 29, 2010 at 11:38 a.m.
Even if you are already living with your fiancé, you can find a whole world of items at your closest major retailer that you would love to own.
Make your registry fun and add things that you might not buy for yourself but would like - my fiance (now husband) and I registered for things like:
*a universal remote that we wanted
*a Sony blue ray DVD player - and some DVDs
*surround sound speakers for our family room
*a Cuisinart popcorn maker that also serves as a bowl
*a waffle maker
*several accent pillows, throws, and candles in different colours to enhance our existing home decor
*a warming tray
*some really nice serving pieces
*a stand mixer and some good quality bakeware
TIP: there is an added benefit to starting your registry at bridal shows - there are always great contest and incentives (free money). Registry contests through Seas, The Bay, Home Outfitters and William Ashley’s and show contest such as a chance to win a wedding dress, a diamond ring, or a washer and dryer.
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