All about the Bridal Registry

A wedding registry or bridal registry isn't exactly a new idea in weddings. There have been many couples, I'm sure you know some, who have registered for wedding gifts for their big day. And now that it's your turn to celebrate this momentous occasion, you may be asking: Is it okay for us to have a bridal registry?

Truth is, there is nothing wrong with having a bridal registry. It's actually a good thing to do, especially if you want your guests to know what you would prefer as gifts. But of course, if you don't fee like registering for one, it's okay -- it isn't required you have one.

But if you plan to sign up for a wedding registry, remember that there are some do's and don'ts in informing your guests about it. For one, it would be rude to put the registry note inside your wedding invitation. You can send it along with your bridal shower invitation, or if you have an online wedding registry, you can put its link on your wedding website. That way, your guests would be informed where the registry is and what items are included. Of course word of mouth, via your parents, would also help.

Speaking of the items, also take into consideration the price range of the items you choose for your bridal registry. Make way for a wide price range -- remember that some of your guests have limited budget as well and may not be able to spend too much for an expensive cookware.

Aside from cookware, you can include dinnerware, linen, and other small appliances in your registry, especially if you're living in your new dream house after the wedding. Where you register is also important -- make it a bit easy for your guests to shop for your gifts included in the wedding registry. Department stores and specialized shops that are familiar to your guests are ideal places where you can have your bridal registry.

Remember, it is your big day, and it's okay if you desire to receive something you really want for your new home. But also remember there is a nice way to put it so asking for a particular gift won't come as rude. And also remember that while you may have your bridal registry, some guests would want to surprise you with something special that isn't included in your registry. Keep in mind these few tips and make your wedding preparation less worrisome.

Photo credit: Wedding gifts by CWMGary from sxc.hu.

Asking for cash instead of traditional gifts

Is it taboo to ask for cash as a wedding gift? While it may be frowned upon by some, more couples are now doing this. Plenty of reasons come to mind: they probably have enough stuff for the household that giving another blender would just occupy space, or the couple plans to live in another country, or they may just want you to help them start their married life.

But how should you ask your guests that you'd prefer a monetary gift over a traditional one? A relative or a friend might take it the wrong way if you tell them outright.

When my husband and I were still halfway through the planning stage, we wanted to give hints to our guests that we would like to receive such gifts. My mom helped me out on this -- she spread the word to my relatives. "Gift is good, but they need cash." It came as a joke (half-meant, I would say) but it kinda worked: as 3/4 of the guests were my relatives, the total amount we received would have covered half of our wedding expenditures.

Another idea is to tell them through a poem, which you can write on the invitation. One such poem can be found over at TheFizz.co.uk:

If you were thinking of giving a gift, to help us on our way
A gift of cash towards our house, would really make our day.
However, if you prefer to purchase a gift, feel free to surprise us in your own way.

What I liked about this poem is that it sounded more of a request; it didn't require guests to give just cash. They can surprise the couple with anything they think the bride and groom would like.

There's also the wedding wishing well where guests can put in their monetary gifts as they enter the reception hall. You can tell your guests about it also via your invitation. Here's an example of a wedding wishing well poem from Mag.WeddingCentral.com.au:

To save you looking, shopping or buying
Here is an idea, we hope you like trying.
Come to our wedding, to wish us both well
And bring this small sack, to throw in our wishing well.
Fill it with paper all colours will do, gold is our favorite but silver will do.
Now that we have saved you, all of the fuss
We hope you will come, and celebrate with us.

It doesn't sound rude, right? Plus, it tells them that their presence matters, not because of the gift they would give, but because they are important to you.

Here are a few ideas you could use if you want to receive cash as wedding gifts. Not only is it beneficial to you, but it also helps remove the stress from your guests in searching for a great wedding gift for you. Just remember to ask nicely so it won't ruin your big day.