How to Register and Keep Your Sanity

Earlier this week I showcased a few stunning summer gifts that are perfect for any occasions here. Today, I want to touch on the overall registering process. I can guarantee that when you register for your upcoming nuptials that you will get overwhelmed. You have multiple stores to choose from, different gift ideas floating through your head plus a small fear that no one will give you any gifts. Along with these emotions, I can also guarantee that you will survive and registering can be fun! Even fun with your love! Who would have thought?

In anticipation of registering, let me give you a bit of advice that will help make this daunting process seem relaxed and simple.

1. What do you really need? This is the most important part. Take 30 minutes to sit down with your significant other and decide what you are needing. For younger couples, you will need complete dish sets, an ironing board and a blender but for those couples who are getting married at a later age those things may not be necessary. You may be more interested in larger gifts like a new grill or new candlesticks for your dining room table display. Whatever your needs are establish them early on.

2. Make a list and check it twice. Just wanted to throw in a Santa reference but it never hurts. Do not freak out about making a list if you realize that you need a kagillion things (whew, that is a lot.) When I was getting married, I needed a lot of things. We had no matching dishes or silverware. To help calm my fears, I used various websites that provide a basic wedding registry list. You can print the list off and take it with you when going to the store. You can also mark off things that you do not need to make your list match your lifestyle. Here is one from Martha Stewart Weddings. Are you surprised I chose Martha? Didn't think so!

3. Pick Three Stores. I always suggest to brides to chose three stores that reflect the needs of the bride. My suggestion is to find a big national chain (You will be surprised at how many people send gifts online) and consider a local store. I have always been taught you need a low end store, a medium and a large to accomdate all budgets.

4. Get it all. When I registered, I immediately felt guilty. I looked at my numerous page registry and thought we need this stuff but it is too much to ask for. Get over it. First, it is the one time out of two (think baby) when you can create a registry for yourself and no one minds! You are the bride. You are fabulous and you need materials to start the next chapter with your beloved. Number two, people feel honored to shower you with gifts. I love giving gifts to brides and seeing the excitement on their face. And three, you will be surprised at how many things get marked off your registry. Make sure that you have enough items to cover all of your showers. Most registeries allow you to update and add new items.

5. Set aside time but you do not have to do it all in one day. Register as soon as you can. The proper time is around 4 to six months before your big day. Registering should not take all your efforts or distract you from the task at hand, getting married. Make sure you have plenty of time to register and are not being rushed to get to another appointment. Rusty and I spent a whole Saturday afternoon registering at Bed Bath and Beyond. We had fun walking around and really bonded. Realize that you are picking out things for your future together. How awesome!

6. Dress comfy and eat a good meal. Fuel up with a healthy meal, pack a little snack and dress appropiately. If you are registering at your high end store then dress accordingly but make sure you dress for comfort. You will be on your feet!

7.  Have fun! Registering is exciting! Like I said, these gifts represent your future as a couple. The white platter you loved at Dillards but thought was too expensive might be just the gift your employees are wanting to get you. Do not deny yourself but keep a steady head too! This is something that should bring you and your sweetheart closer plus is a fun thing to do together. Brides you plan 98% of your wedding. Let the groom help out! Enjoy each other! Make it fun by packing camphange and strawberries in the car to celebrate once you are through.

If you have any questions about registering or suggestions for other brides, email me.