Let’s talk wedding gifts. Putting together a registry seems daunting, but from traditional store registries to sites that let you aggregate gifts from across the internet to honeymoon or home funds, it’s easier than ever to put together a list of items you really want and will love to have in your home. With all those choices, do you still need to anchor your registry with traditional items like china and crystal? Here’s what our experts have to say.
Registries are moving away from the ultra-traditional, with more and more couples opting to choose items that fit their lifestyle instead of a more antiquated vision. Since you can find a wedding registry for just about anything you might want, from a new grill to camping gear to chic bowls for your furry friend, don’t feel pressured to add those expected items to your registry if you know you won’t use them.
You should, however, consider close alternatives that better fit your lifestyle. Instead of registering for eight settings of fancy china you might use every Thanksgiving, look for a set you’ll love and use every day, whether it’s something super minimalist that you can dress up with patterned salad plates or a line with some texture that fits your design scheme. Don’t expect to take out the fine crystal any time soon? If you’re wine lovers, register for varietal-specific glasses to enhance your drinking experience. More of a mixed drink or whiskey couple? A set of rocks or highball glasses will come in handy and get much more use. The same goes for silverware. The real stuff involves polishing (and can’t go in the dishwasher!), but there are plenty of beautiful settings that are easier to care for, which means you’ll really use them instead of tucking them away in a drawer.
For decor items like vases and frames, again, steer your guests toward things that are more your style. You’ll want a few frames, anyway, to show off those wedding pictures! Or ask for a gift card to a company that prints images on canvas or more modern acrylic if that fits better in your home.
Even if you’ve already got a home full of the basics, adding a few more traditional items (with your own personal spin, of course!) will appeal to guests who want to get you something a little more traditional. Then let your friends and peers chip in for the items that really speak to you!
See More: What to Do After You Register
