Choosing a Store to Register

A wedding celebrates the joyous union and the happy guests help the couple stock up! The gist of it is that you get lots of gifts before the wedding, on your big day, and they'll keep trickling in for another year! Best of all, today's couples enjoy a wide range of registry options from hardware stores to contributions toward a dream honeymoon.

Taking Stock
You and your mate may have probably already invested in some basic must-have home furnishings. And with more emphasis today on making a home-as-fashion statement, you've probably collected some of the items people traditionally register for. So sit down together and make a list of what both of you have and will keep and then make a list of what you still need and want. For ideas, take a look at our basic registry checklist for items you may want to include on your list.

Put the Store to the Test
Once you've inventoried your personal life, start auditioning registries. Here are the key areas to investigate:

Selection. What range of products and brands does the registry carry? Make sure the registry you pick has the brands you want, a variety of price points, and a large selection of different products.

Shipping. Will they ship to the address you designate? Can they send gifts in a batch? The best retailers will send your gifts to any address you specify. That spares your guests time and money.

Convenience. Is the process hassle-free for buyers? Can your list be faxed to guests afar so they can order by phone or fax back their order? Does the store have a toll-free number? Will your registry be available online? Can guests purchase gifts online?

Tracking. How will the retailer keep track of your registry? How fast after a gift is bought will the purchase be reflected on the list? Big retailers should have a computerized system that is updated frequently.

Exchanges. How long is the exchange/return period? What are the terms? The exchange and return policy is crucial. You don't want to end up with any duplicates or get back from your honeymoon and find out that you have only 10 days left to exchange or return any items you don't want. Read the fine print!

Perks. Different retailers offer different benefits. For example, some offer what's called a completion program that allows you to fill in whatever you don't receive at a discount.

File Keeping. How long will your registry list be kept active after the wedding? Guests have up to one year from your wedding day to buy you your gift, so that's at least how long your registry should be kept active.

Seal the Deal
Once you pick a registry program, fill out your registry form that includes a list of what products you want on the registry list. Ask for a master list and read it carefully to make sure there are no mistakes. Double-check the mailing address for where gifts will be sent. Last but not least, get the business card of the person who helped you set up the program, so that you have a point person should you have any questions or problems.

Throughout your engagement, get periodic printouts of your registry list to keep tabs on the process, especially after each bridal shower or pre-wedding event. Check off any purchased gifts the store didn't catch and be sure the changes are posted immediately.

Take a look at our Local Wedding Registries