Once upon a time, wedding registries were a must for couples as they started their new lives together. Traditionally, marriage meant moving into a new home together for the first time, in addition to tying the knot. A gift registry was a great way to procure useful household items with which to start the couple’s life together.
Modern couples like to take a different approach, especially if they’ve lived together for some time already. If you are a modern couple looking to do something other than the traditional wedding registry, or perhaps just looking to get things you’ll use, here are some ideas for you!
Only Register at Your Favorite Store
Traditional registries still have merit in the modern world. Many couples find themselves revisiting one or two stores on a regular basis simply because they love the wares they acquire there. If you have a store on your list, create your wedding registry there, even if it isn’t one of the more popular spots. If Bed, Bath, and Beyond is your favorite store, go to https://www.blueprintregistry.com/bedbathandbeyond-wedding-registry and build your registry without leaving the comfort of your home. If you have an extensive must-read list, create a registry at the local bookstore. Don’t be afraid to list your favorite store just because it isn’t a traditional choice.
Collect for a Charity
If there is a cause that is of great importance to you or you just want to make a difference in the world, invite guests to donate to a local charity in your name. This is a great way to balance the indulgence and materialism often associated with weddings while giving back to your community.
Your guests might find the idea of giving money to a charity more appealing than gift buying and be willing to up their expenditure. This is also a great way to honor a deceased loved one who you wish could be in attendance at your big day.
Ask for Experiences, Not Things
Create a list of ideal date nights for the first year of your marriage and ask your guests to make it happen. Movie nights, romantic picnics, cooking classes, ax throwing, the options are endless. Get online and get creative.
The best part of this registry idea is that your guests may come up with something you hadn’t considered. A science-loving cousin may create a do-it-yourself stargazing kit while a practical aunt my sign you up for a monthly meal service.
Ask for Something Meaningful to Your Guests
Ask your guests to give you something that is meaningful to them, and ask them to tell you why it means so much. A favorite book or classic movie may have shaped the lives of some of your guests, and this is a unique opportunity for them to share that experience with you.
If you have something specific in mind, music for example, you can specify this wish in your request. Rather than a broad invitation to gift something meaningful, ask them to share their favorite album or record. This is a fun way to build up a music library and broaden your taste.
Ask for a Specific Monetary Contribution
Most modern couples prefer to receive money instead of gifts. However, it can be awkward to ask for cash and is sometimes interpreted as rude. For this reason, it is sometimes better to have a specific monetary goal in mind. Guests will feel better knowing that the money is designated for a downpayment on your first home or to fund your honeymoon to somewhere you would not otherwise get to visit.
If you do not feel comfortable presenting this as the only option, have an alternative gift registry that guests can choose from. No matter where you choose to register, chances are you’ll still get a toaster that will remain unused until the end of time from a zany aunt. Regardless, it’s the thought that counts!
