Wedding Registry: Top Ten Tips The Marcel’s team has many years of experience in helping brides compile practical, personal and unique registries. We are delighted to share our most helpful tips! Register in Advance. Your guests will search your registry for engagement, shower and wedding gifts; register at least 2 months before your first shower. Register for More Gifts than Guests Invited. Guests sincerely appreciate many options! Register for a High/Low Mix: Register for many gifts in a variety of price points to accommodate different budgets and gift-giving occasions (shower gift vs wedding gift, for example). Keep Special Occasions in Mind. Look beyond the everyday. Register for 8-12 place settings (and maybe a few more than you think you will need so you have spares in the event of breakage) and unique pieces for family gatherings and holiday entertaining. Special pieces to use once a year (i.e. a pair of Champagne flutes for New Year’s Toasts) will foster tradition and memories. You Only Get to Register Once. Guests want to give a memorable gift. Even if you defer its use for a period of time, you’ll remember who gave the gift and will treasure it. Register at a Local Store. Think with your guests in mind and register at 3 locations but ideally 1 should be a local brick and mortar store. An in-store experience with personalized advice is an appealing option for many guests. Don’t Limit Your Choices. Many brides feel a sense of guilt for registering for higher ticket items. Remember that many guests love to pool resources and “splurge” on a more expensive gift. Guests also love to purchase something unique that reflects the couple’s personality. Monitor your Registry. Add items as needed and plan for late shoppers. Most gifts are purchased within 2 weeks (before and after) the wedding day. Look out for “Hidden Perks” Some vendors offer special gifts just for registering for their products. Also, ask about completion programs. Marcel’s offers a 10% discount to you for items on the registry after the wedding and keeps brides advised of special gifts. Be Gracious. Keep a log of gifts received and be prompt in sending a hand-written thank you note. Print these tips