The first and most important step toward becoming well registered is to ask yourself, “What is the purpose of my wedding registry?”  There are many different approaches you can take with your registry.  Our biggest advice regarding wedding registries is to decide what approach you wish to take. 

Here are four common approaches many couples choose:

1 – We want to get all the basics needed to start our home together.

This is a great goal to have for your registry if you are just starting out and don't have a lot of household items already.  Think about your current situation – what you need and want to start your married life together.  Also discuss what you don't need or want and choose to resist any pressure that may come to register for those things you don't desire.

2 – We want to get nice items that will last a long time. 

This is a good approach to take if you will be able to afford to purchase the things you need that you don't receive as gifts.  Crystal, fine china, silverware, luxury linens and high-end kitchenwares are very popular among wedding registries and many of these items can last a lifetime.  Think about not only what you want and need in your current situation, but also things you may want many years into the future.  Try to read reviews on your expensive products to ensure that you are receiving items that really will last a long time.

3 – We want to upgrade items that we already own.

This approach is great to take if you already have a lot of the household items you need but still want to have a traditional registry.  Take time to go through your home and make a list of things you wish to upgrade.  Splurge on upgrading items you use often and fill any gaps you may have in your home.  Don't hesitate to register for items like furniture or home décor.

4 – We want to have a non-traditional wedding registry.

This approach to the wedding registry is a good option if you have all the household items you want or need, or if you simply don't want to do the traditional registry.  Non-traditional wedding registries are  growing in popularity and there are many options available to you.

Even if you do no other research before completing your wedding registry, if you honestly assess the purpose behind your registry you will likely be happier with the end result than if you had spent hours reviewing checklists and inspiration boards without a goal in mind.