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Etiquette and registries; the two are quite a delicate and sensitive topic. Especially when it comes to planning on what kind of gifts you would like to receive as married couple starting your new lives together.
Firstly, just because you send someone an invitation to your wedding, does not mean that there is a “strings attached” obligation for a guest to bring you a gift. Of course it is customary and with great taste that someone invited to a lavish occasion such as a wedding, birthday party, housewarming, etc., know that they should, and with good judgment, bring a gift.
To spread the word that you are registered or have a particular gift in mind, here are a few suggestions. You can send it in the form of a card listing your registry information. This is sent along with the shower invitation, separate from the wedding invitation. Another form of communication would be word of mouth. Have your bridal party, or loved ones share these tidbits. And lastly, create a wedding newsletter or website. This will give you the opportunity to be creative and have fun at the same time.
Note: Never include “Monetary Gifts Only” or “Monetary Gifts Accepted” on the actual invitation. It adds a certain; to put it nicely; Je ne sais quoi, and takes so much away from the presentation of you as the guest of honor, your invitation and wedding. The same suggestions above should be taken into account. When in doubt, ask your planner for advice or have your stationer design separate cards and give them over to the person in charge of planning your wedding shower. Also there are registries that actually let you convert “item listings” into currency. See article here. Now isn’t that amazing?
I hope this has helped you as much as it has helped past and present clients in planning their registries.
Happy Registry Planning!
Xoxo,
Lisa
