Creating Registries: Part Two

Whenever my husband Ben and I are about to buy something new, he always recommends that I first do some "midget research":

Let me explain...

      I'm 5'5" and Ben is 6'2" {hence his nickname for me: "midget"}
+    I am obsessive about hunting down the best items for the least amount of money {research}

=    Midget Research

There are a few steps involved in doing "midget research":

{I'm going to pepper this post with pretty pictures so you don't get too bored! hehe}

FIRST: If you don't know what items you want or need:

1) Ask oldies. Talk to people who have been married for more than 10 years for their "must-have" items. Not only will they know of some items you might not think of, but they'll know what brands really last.

2) Ask newbies. Talk to people who have been married for a year or two for items they found particularly useful...and for items that were a waste of money. A lot of newlyweds buy into gimmicks {an omelet maker? really?}, so their accidental research will help you know what items not to buy.

3) Ask other brides-to-be. They may have tips from their friends and families that would be helpful to you as well.

4) Surf the net. Consumer reviews are an excellent way to find out accurate information about a product.

image source: BowerPowerBlog

SECOND: Once you know what types of items you want:

1) Think long-term. Sure, those geometric patterned plates are in style today...but what happens in 5 years when you're suddenly fond of florals? Be sure you choose items {particularly dinnerware} that are neutral. Otherwise, you will most likely end up having to buy everything all over again in a few years as the fads change.


2) Find exactly what you want. Brand, size, color - everything. This step may not be necessary for everyone, but it is necessary for crazy, obsessive people me.

For example, I knew that our newlywed nest would not have stainless steel appliances. However, my fiancee and I loved the stainless steel look. So, we decided to incorporate that look in our new home by registering for all stainless steel small appliances {toaster, trivets,  spatula holder - but NOT spatulas, since they can scratch non-stick surfaces}.

Well, when my aunt was out shopping for my Bridal Shower, she called my mom and asked if I'd care if she bought me something that was the same brand as what we'd registered for but that was a different color and style. My mom let her know that she was sure I'd appreciate whatever gift I received...but that I hand-picked the items on the registry, so she was sure I would love to have something purchased from it.

3) Research, research, research! This is where the internet will become your new best friend. I highly recommend pricing items online at various stores. Just make sure these items are not just available online. However, you should also make sure to have at least a few items available online for out-of-town guests who want to quick ship your gifts to you.

THIRD: After you've done all of your homework, you're ready to register! After you register:

1) Pare your list. Have a bridesmaid or relative go through your list with you every few weeks to see if there are any items you have decided to add or remove. That way, you won't end up with gifts you don't want, but you won't see what items people have already bought for you. Just make sure they aren't deleting something that someone has already purchased for you!

2) Pick a person. Decide who is going to be taking the presents from the wedding and dropping them off at the reception, or wherever they need to go {your house, your parents' house, etc.}. You wouldn't want to lose those precious gifts!

image source: Lonny

Coming soon...my must-have items for newlyweds.

Did you follow any of these "rules" when you were registering for wedding gifts?