How to Choose Between 5 Types of Wedding Registries

Presents. Theoretically, they're meant to be one of the best parts of the wedding aftermath, but when you're unwrapping the fifteenth set of monogrammed tea towels in a color you don't even like, you might find yourself questioning the wisdom of a standard registry. Here are five different options, and how to know which ones are best for you.


The Store Registry
If you already have a store in mind that fits your style and aesthetic, then it's not a bad idea to go the traditional route of registering at a specific store. Chances are, the salespeople will have prior experience with registries, and a store may even have special offers or discounts if you're planning to put all of your eggs in their basket. This option is best for couples who prefer multi-piece sets in specific designs.

The Money Option
Maybe you already know exactly what you want, exactly where to get it, and exactly how cheap you can get it for, if you're buying it yourself. Maybe you'd prefer to put the cost of your potential gifts towards a downpayment on a house, a future pet, or your child's college education fund, or even donate to a cause close to your heart. The money option is the best type of registry for couples that knows exactly what they want and how to get it, have a specific goal in mind, or already know they'd appreciate the cash more than a gift.

The Wish List
Instead of going the route of a formal registry, consider setting up a wish list for things you know you want. You can include details on the more finicky items, like what types of kitchen appliances would go best with your home, or leave it up to the buyer's choice. This can be as simple as listing off items like an ironing board or electric kettle, or as detailed as using a registry site to pick your items straight from the web. This is the eclectic couple option, or the route to go if you'd like to offer your guests a wide range of gifting possibilities.

The Honeymoon Registry
If your focus is already on the honeymoon, why not put your wedding gifts towards it? Deciding on a honeymoon registry allows your trip to be a crowdfunded affair, with the added fun of letting guests choose exactly what parts of your trip they're putting their money towards. It's like an extra bonus on top of your honeymoon fund, or a replacement for it altogether. For those of you who like to travel, this is your best option.

The Crowdsourced Registry
Similar to the Honeymoon Registry, this option is great if you know your friends and family might not be able to contribute a lot financially, or if you have a lot of big ticket items on your dream wish list. If you have a specific copper saucepan or bedding set thats not sold at Target you can buy it this way. People are unlikely to buy you a five hundred dollar gift, but maybe a few of your friends are willing to chip in to make it happen. This option is great for couples who are just starting out, and might need to make bigger home purchases without breaking the bank.


Above all, this is your wedding. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want, but make sure you're doing so in a way that will help people give it.