The Gift Registry
When it comes to wedding gifts, you and your future spouse have a decision to make: to register or not to register? There are pros and cons to both.
PROS
When you register for gifts, you don't have to worry about getting twenty gravy boats or a dozen of the exact same cookie jar.
Registering for gifts greatly cuts down on the probability that you will end up with something truly hideous that you can't ever get rid of because you wouldn't be able to handle the guilt.
Registering for gifts takes the pressure off of the people who are giving them to you. Instead of worrying about getting you "just the right thing" and then finding out that four other people gave you the exact same photo album, they simply pick a gift from your registry. That takes the gift off of the list and your guests won't have to worry about whether or not someone has already bought you the same gift.
CONS
To some couples, registering feels a lot like begging and feels a little tacky. Some people think that it is poor form to tell people what you expect to receive.
Registering can take away the surprise that comes from someone giving you a truly thoughtful wedding gift that you didn't expect. Because you can track which gifts have been bought, there will be few surprises when it comes time to open the gifts.
Couples who register run the risk of registering in stores that some people might not be able to afford or might not have access to on a regular basis. While the internet is wonderful, some people prefer to buy gifts "in person."
Whichever you decide to do, try not to go overboard in either direction. People want to celebrate your special day with you, so the giving of gifts feels natural! When it comes time to decide, you'll know what to do.