A gift registry is a free service many stores provide that enable you to create a list of items that you would like to receive for your wedding. You can think of the bridal gift registry as a courtesy you do for your guests. By registering for gifts in one or more stores you are actually saving them a lot of time in the gift selection process. In addition you will greatly reduce the number of duplicate gifts that you receive or gifts that just aren't quite to your taste or type of decor.
Gift Guidelines:

1. Select gifts from two or more stores. Keep in mind where most of your guests will be shopping. It is a good idea to register with at least one major department store.

2. Do some thinking about what you would like your future home to look like. Make a note of styles, colors, patterns, etc. Even though you may not be living in your current residence for long, the gifts you receive will last for a very long time. It pays to put some thought in before selecting your gifts.

3. A store with a computerized registry service will enable you to select your gifts quickly and easily. Many of the larger stores come equipt with hand-held scanners. All you need to do is point and shoot! Computerized registries also enable guests to receive a detailed and up-to-date list of what gifts have already been purchased for you, item prices, and some even show which items are on sale for a given day.

4. Of course you'll register for the items you need, but don't forget to let yourself register for those fun items on your list that you really want. Remember this is your day, your wish list, so have fun with it!

5. Be sure to register for items in a wide variety of price ranges. Don't be afraid to register for items that you think are too expensive. Oftentimes friends and family will get together to purchase a special more expensive item.

6. Register as soon as you are engaged. You may find that guests will select items off of your list for shower gifts, or even birthday or Christmas presents! In addition certain items such as china or silver patterns may take as long as four months or longer to receive. If the gift is not available for the wedding you will receive a gift card describing the gift and the reason for the late arrival.