Gifts
Yes, there will be gifts...lots of them. You and your
fiance will receive presents big and small. To make sure you receive
what you both truly need and want, you should register with at least
one store. We will show you both how to tend to these final party
and gift details. And remember, you can click on the links for worksheets
to help you with each step.
Registering is time-consuming and can be slightly
stressful because of the many decisions that need to be made. Physically,
it's easy. You both simply go to the gift registry department at
your favorite store and either fill out a massive checklist or use
an electronic scanner to note items that you want. Then, the store
will print out your complete wish list.
You both should seriously consider registering at
several stores, maybe one that offers wonderful formal dinnerware,
one that offers gorgeous furniture and housewares, and one larger
superstore where you can register for electronics, gardening supplies,
or any little thing your heart desires. That way, you both are sure
to hit all of your wishes and all of your guests' price ranges.
Beyond the Obvious
Be creative! Some couples register at hardware stores,
furniture stores, or large superstores. In other words, don't limit
yourself to just registering for housewares at a department store.
Another trend receiving generous attention is registering with a
charity. When people ask where you both are registered, give them
the name and address of the foundation, and monetary gifts will
be donated in your names.
On the subject of gifts, perhaps the greatest gift
of all is the honeymoon — something you and your fiance give
to each other -- and something most newlyweds need and want more
than anything. After months of planning, negotiating, and compromising,
you both deserve a special and memorable getaway. After all, once
you both return home, it's back to reality.
Creating the Gift Registry
Registering for gifts is fun and functional. As for
the fun part, what better way to spend an afternoon than jotting
down hundreds of things you both wish you owned. As for functionality,
registering ensures that you actually receive things you need. Registering
also keeps duplicate gifts at a minimum...unless you both really
want four gravy boats?
At every store you both register, you will receive
a printout of your registration that details all selected items,
style numbers, and desired quantities. If you care to know your
gift status at any given time, you both can request an updated printout
that will list all items and quantities purchased thus far. Some
stores also have Web sites that let you check the up-to-the-minute
status of your list.
Before heading off to register, go through the following
list together and take note of the general categories that deserve
special attention. Think of particular items that you both need
in each category, and jot them down on a piece of paper.
- Formal dinnerware
- Informal dinnerware
- Formal flatware
- Informal flatware
- Serveware
- Casual glassware/barware
- Crystal
- Bar needs
- Kitchenware
- Linens
- Decorative items
- Electronics
Duly Noted
Every gift — big or small, expected or not —
should be followed up with a thank you card. To make the process
easier, keep a good wedding gift record from the start that includes
the name of the giver, the gift, and an area for you to check off
when you've sent a thank you note.
The note should be sent as soon as possible, so you
both want to try to keep up with this as the gifts arrive. Because
you'll likely be writing many notes, keep them brief. You are not
obligated to send an entire letter. Simply begin by thanking the
person for the gift, move on to a sentence about how the two of
you will use the gift, mention how happy you are that this person
could attend the shower or wedding, and close with a second and
final thank you.
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