The idea of a wedding dowry has changed over the centuries.  As society has transitioned, so must the wedding registry ideas.  Let’s explore both traditional and non-traditional options for compiling your registry.  Love note – this should be done together.

Wedding Planner Book

If you haven’t already purchased one, it is recommended that you get something – notebook, binder or some type of organizer.  There are so many checklists, worksheets, tools, online support, budget sheets and etiquette guidelines, you’ll want some help and more importantly, someplace safe for all of your notes and thoughts.  Love note – one or both of you will use it to remember what you agreed upon.

                             

Setting Up Your Wedding Registry

As you begin, a few pointers to consider before you determine what type of registry you would like to have.

•  Wedding Size – Think about how many will be on the invite list.  The number of items will need to exceed that, but if it’s too big for the size, you may not get complete set of anything or a smattering in each category.
• Lifestyle – We’ll get more detailed on this one shortly, but are you a traditional couple or do you have a more contemporary approach to your relationship?
• Timing – You will want to set up your registry early.  As plans progress you can let family and friends know about your registry. You can add as you go too.
• Price Points – Be sure to include a variety of price points.  Family and friends are at different income levels and this is considerate to them as well as not everything you will need has to be at higher price.
• Merging Households – Both of you will bring some things to your new home, or maybe you’re already living together.  Now is the time to discuss what you want to keep, or your design asthestic and colors.

Traditional Registry

For those couples that may not have acquired household items, or just looking to upgrade what you have, consider a traditional registry.  This is a list that hits all of the traditional rooms in your home, and can get pretty specific.

Kitchen – small appliances (coffee/tea machine, slow cooker, oven/toaster, etc); serving dishes; steak and utility

knives; cookware; kitchen towels and rugs; pot holders and oven mitts; and even cannisters.

Dining Room – Formal china; daily dinnerware; flatware; glassware; bar set – wine glasses, cocktail glasses, ice

bucket; placemats; table linens.

Living Room – Pillows; throws; statues; area rug; television; lamps; wall art; decor pieces; faux plants; vacuum;

floor steamer.

Bedroom – Sheets; comforter set; blanket; pillows; bed bench; lamps; alarm clock; television; decor pieces; wall art.

Bathroom – Towels; counter accessories; bath accessories; rugs; towel warmer.

Non-Traditional Registry

So this is where it could get really fun.  There are so many ways to go on this path.  Make your registry about the thing or a combination of things that you two enjoy together.  Some of these are a sub-set of the items above, but they can be taken to a different level based on your expertise or desire with each.  Consider the following:

Kitchen – Do you enjoy cooking together?  This can be a complete focus on the kitchen, or focus on a specific style of cooking. Or the expertise is baking.  Think about cookware, accessories, cookbooks, anything that could build, complete or take your love of the kitchen to another level.

 

Music – Whatever the genre, there is something out there.  A new stereo, stacks of CD’s (and yes I know you can download), or if you’re both into album collections, perhaps a new retro turntable.  Where do you want music in the house? Think about those backyard bbq’s or soaking in the spa tub.  Or is music about a particular instrument?  Perhaps your favorite artists, artwork or something you collect.

 

Pool/Spa – If your home has a pool and/or spa, perhaps it’s all about creating the ultimate backayard.  Beach towels, pool chairs/floats, bar, barware, cooler, lounge chairs, music, bbq (and of course all that goes with it), outdoor lights, outdoor television.

 

Liquor– This can be wine, whiskey, or any other specific liquor.  Glasses, educational books, coffee table book, decanter, corks, specialty accessories, or complete bar set up.

Food – Yes, there are food clubs available on Amazon.  Cheese, cheese and sausage, bacon, with some being a one-time gift or some offer delivery for 3 months.  Again you can get as specific as you want with one, two or three items.  You can even request a gift card from a particular restaurant.

 

Sports – If you’re hikers, kayakers, love a particular college or professional team, this segment can go wild.  Dishes, apparel, office accessories, or even items that maybe are not as literal but you request items in a favorite teams colors.  Perhaps you want your Christmas tree decked out in sports ornaments, now is a good time to request those. The list can go on for special interests – fishing, surfing, bowling.

Camping/Cabin – Perhaps you love camping or have a cabin that you visit.  Camping gear (cots, sleeping bags, folding chairs, lantern, cookware) or accessories for an RV or camper. Folding outdoor furniture, tools, and so much more. This might be combined with fishing, kayaking and the like.

Honeymoon – This can be a combination of things from luggage to equipment or special items needed for activities while on your honeymoon.  So let’s say you are going to the Caribbean.  Perhaps you need luggage but also need photography gear because you want to take photos and video throughout.  That could be a camera with video capabilities, the bag and other accessories that go with it.

 

The possibilities are endless depending on your interests together. So if you elect to depart from the traditional model, have fun and make your registry all about the two of you and your special interest.

For Charity’s Sake

In the joyous occassion of your engagement and wedding, consider adding an extra charm to your wedding website, engagement party or other events along the way and encourage family and guests to donate to a wedding related charity.  These organizations don’t always get the same sizzle as others, and what a blessing to help others share in the happiness and love that you have.

Wish Upon A Wedding – Grants weddings and vow renewals to couples facing serious illness or life-threatening health circumstances.

Brides Across America – A non-profit committed to lovingone another by gifting weddings and wedding gowns to our military and first responders.