How to plan your Wedding Registry

Like many ladies my age, I didn't decide to get married until I was in my thirties (I know, the horror, right?) anyway, I was concerned about creating a registry.  I had lived on my own (and with Hubs) for many years and I didn't need towels, or pans, and I had absolutely no need for china.  So, I did what every Bride does, I called my Mom.  She convinced me that I had every right to register for items for the showers and the Wedding, and if I didn't give people ideas, lord knows what I would end up with.  As always, she was right.

So, I made a list.  Items that needed replaced, maybe it was time to have a set of dishes that matched or some dish towels that weren't what my Mom sent me off to college with.

1.  Pick your colors. 
What color do you want your kitchen or bathroom to be?  Register for towels in those colors some of your shower invitees will use your registry to pick out some cute accessories to compliment those colors.

Photo Credit: Crate and Barrel

2.  Service for Eight.
Pick out some plates that you love, and add the matching serving dishes, bowls, and everything else.  Remember, they don't all need to be from the same set. Mix and match, just make sure they  compliment each other. You don't have to use them for everyday, but when you start entertaining you will have everything you need. 

Photo Credit: Crate and Barrel

3.  Silverware.
Register for a nice set and a nice silverware storage box to keep them in.  Bring them out when you have company, it will bring a sense fancy to your dinner when you are not eating off the same silverware that you had mac and cheese off of the night before.  Break them out for company, and don't forget to count them when you are putting them away, so you don't miss anything.

4.  Add a couple of big things.
My family is big on 'going in' on big presents.  Some suggestions?  Vacuum cleaner, grill, mixer.

5.  Do not register for china.
Raise your hand if your parents have a set of china in attic from either your Grandmother or Great-Grandmother with your name on it?  If you really need a set, ask for it.

6.  Replace the old.
Think new towels, new mixing bowls (ok, maybe I just wanted another set), drinking glasses.

Photo Credit: Crate and Barrel

Have fun with registering.  Make your fiancée take you out to lunch, and then head to the store and play with the little gun.

Next week we will talk about WHERE to register.

Happy Planning!

~Cyn