Registry or not Registries every brides question
The custom of giving a wedding gift dates back to the
inception of the wedding ceremony itself. Gone are the days when the groom entered the
marriage with a dowry of gifts from his new in-laws. Today's couples are most likely faced
with the task of combining the possessions they have collected individually while their
guests are faced with the task of selecting a gift they think the couple needs and would
like to receive. The sensible solution to this dilemma, advise the experts of Royal
Doulton, is The Bridal Registry, a convenient way to let friends and relatives know
exactly what you need to make your new home complete.
The Bridal Registry can be a terrific benefit to the
Bride and Groom. Firstly, there is no charge to register; it is a complimentary service
offered by the store. The Bridal Consultant will assist you in selecting items you would
like to receive and you may find they'll suggest things you hadn't thought of but can't
live without.
Bridal Registries in large department stores will cover
everything from hardware to housewares, china and linen, bathroom accessories, lamps and
even rugs. Specialty shops offer smaller selections of overall items, but may have a
greater variety in the ranges that they specialize in. For instance, a china and glass
retailer may represent more patterns and more manufacturers of tabletop items than a
department store. As a result, many brides register with more than one retailer.
Many stores offer a Bridal and Gift Registry Service.
Using this service is easy; simply call ahead to make an appointment with a Consultant and
check to see what services the store offers. For instance, does the store have more than
one location and, if so, can out-of-town guests access your registry information through
the location in their area? Does the store offer a complimentary delivery service or gift
wrapping? Ask about the return policy - most stores will not issue refund money, but will
issue credit toward purchases in the store.
How the Registry works is simple:
The Consultant will go through an itemized list of gifts
and household items which you may or may not wish to receive. She / he will also record
information such as your name, wedding date, location of wedding, home address and
telephone number of present residence and married residence. If you haven't reached a
decision as to a tableware pattern or crystal, the Consultant will show you the selections
in what will best suit your decor, evaluating style and most importantly, pocketbook. A
good Bridal Consultant is very knowledgeable of the many products the store deals with,
new products, buying trends, gift suggestions and caring for china and crystal. She / he
will be a tremendous help.
Most frequently, a Bridal Registry is convenient for
everyone. It alleviates the responsibility of communicating your wishes to your guests.
You will, of course, have to inform guests that you are registered in order for the
service to be effective. The Registry allows guests to choose a gift within their price
range which they know you want and helps eliminate duplication of gifts. Registry lists
also help the bride to keep her thank-you notes in order.
How soon should you register?
You certainly should register in advance of the showers
and parties which will occur prior to your wedding and no later than when your invitations
are mailed. You may wish to register soon after your engagement is announced, especially
if you need assistance in determining a tableware or crystal pattern.
The months leading up to your wedding are hectic - do
yourself a favour and take advantage of the services a Bridal Registry can offer. |