Registry Etiquette
- Question:
- We just announced our engagement—when should I register, and how long can we keep the registry open?
- Answer:
Aim to register 6 to 12 months before your wedding. However, if you have your eye on seasonal merchandise like designer bedding, don't register too early—after six months, you may find it's no longer stocked. Another factor to consider: Most guests buy gifts two days before the ceremony, which means you'll want to have a second group of items ready to add to your list right before the wedding. Ideally, you should keep your list open for a year after you get married, the period during which people can still politely buy you a wedding gift, but check with the store about its policy.
- This content originally appeared in Brides magazine.
- How much cash do I give a friend's son?
- Can we register for a courthouse ceremony?
- How should our table linen monogram look?
- To whom do we send our registry info?
- Can I choose china from my 1st wedding?
- When must the thank-yous be sent?
- Can we return gifts?
- Can we ask my fiancé's guests not to give gifts?
- Can we register for a mortgage?
- Does the maid of honor have to give us a gift?
- When do we open and close the registry?
Submit Your Own Etiquette Question
Have an etiquette question you'd like our editors to answer?
- How do you say thanks for a check?
- Can I register at local boutiques?
- Should I register for expensive items?
- Is it OK to register for wine?
- Must I register for champagne flutes?
- Can I send registry cards with my invitations?
- Do we need to wait until thank-you notes are sent to our guests before depositing their checks?
- Is it OK to register for gifts for a second (or third) wedding?
- Must thank-you cards be signed by bride and groom?
- How many gifts do I register for?
- Should I register for a themed shower?
- Is it OK to bring gifts to the reception?
- Can I change my registered china pattern?
- How do we ask for cash gifts?
