PLANNING YOUR GIFT REGISTRIES

Gift Registries


The use of gift registries has changed over the years! Even the bride to be with one of the biggest engagement rings - Kim Kardashian is using gift registries. Although hers is probably not the norm, with a registry approaching over $200,000 in registered gift wants, she is none the less using them. One of her least expensive requests is a $195 bottle opener.

At the other end of the spectrum are many brides who are delighted just to receive wedding bands from the men they love and expect little else. In the middle is the vast number of brides who embrace the concept of helping their guests find a gift, which will symbolize their good wishes for the new couple. That is the role played by most businesses, such as: J.C. Penney's; Kohls; Target; Bed, Bath and Beyond, etc. Each of them have their niches, and are widely available throughout America, as well as online.

With the impact of the sagging economy on many minds, we are seeing changes in selections made by the couples in their gift registry. In the by gone days, couples would get an abundance of toasters, coffee pots, blankets, sheet sets, towels, kitchen utensils and so forth. While registries are still being used, the requested (or suggested) items have changed. Practical, useful, current - are adjectives being attached to the bulk of many couples choices today.

Something new that as been added to the mix of registries is the - Honeymoon Gift Registries. They are becoming a popular way for couples to get added luxuries to their honeymoons. But beware there are online sites that may not follow through with your lists, so shop safely. Check for references!

According the www.consumer reports.com and their 2011 Guide to Wedding Gifts, more and more couples are going for practical gifts - but let us not confuse practical with inexpensive. Topping the lists are cooking knives - the REALLY GOOD chef's knives. This makes sense, since a first rate knife in the kitchen is as necessary as electricity, running water and of course the microwave. Also on the list are video games, video game consoles, single serve coffee makers (so each person can have their preferred flavor!), cookware (often the better and BEST sets available) and the up to date vacumn cleaners, as well as other small appliances. Most of these items are often over $100. A far cry from the $50 or less spent on gifts for the couple several years ago.

A trend that seems to be continuing is the giving of gift cards. If you are unsure what to give, give a gift card from a store where the couple is registered. Many couples today live together and own homes prior to the wedding, so a gift card to one of the Home Improvement - Lowe's, Home Depot - for example might be a good idea!

Couples should select locations for the registries that they truly desire, and should also take into consideration the guests that will be selecting gifts for them. Remember that the economy has taken a big blow and money might not be as readily available for some of the guests. Be considerate! And do not forget to thank them for each item - whether it is a gift, money or gift card!

In your thank you to them, mention what you got with the gift card or money, so they feel good about their decision!

If you are having any trouble deciding on where or what to register, check with your wedding planner. They are trained and educated to help you deal with these issues. Trust their experience!!!!!

THEMED WEDDING SHOWERS ARE BECOMING VERY POPULAR

PLANNING A BRIDAL SHOWER...here are some "unique" ideas!

Do you have a friend that is getting married? Why not plan a "unique themed" shower for the couple, or for the bride alone! We are coming across some very interesting ideas and want to share them with you!


AROUND THE WORLD is the theme.
 
 

Historic locations - worldwide

Gather some ideas from the couple of their favorite countries (you can also do this for favorite states). Research favorite drinks , food, or hors d'oeurves of those areas. Plan a menu card highlighting them and if there are special meanings or customs associated with them.

Gift ideas for this type of shower could be:

Travel books of specific areas incorporated in the food and drinks at the shower.

Cook books featuring that area.

Travel accessories if the couple will be traveling on their honeymoon.

Ethnic food items

Photo Albums

Travel Maps


NATURE'S WONDER for those outdoor loving couples.


Hold the shower outdoors at a picnic site, camp site or on the beach.

Food and drinks should reflect the outdoor lifestyle - BBQ, grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, picnic lunches, s'mores, and so forth! Capture the mood!





Gifts ideas for this type of shower and couple would be:

Picnic baskets

Folding chairs

Camping equipment

Gift certificates for parks, comfortable outdoor clothing, and more!!!!

Outdoor cooking equipment

A "special" cookbook of favorite outdoor recipes of the guests at the shower

Back packs

And so much more!!!!! Ideas are endless!


GARDENING THEME


Many couples today enjoy the trend towards growing your own veggies, flowers, etc. And many are going organic.

What better way to help them in this area. Host a gardening shower. If they have already purchased their own home, then the ideas of gifts is unlimited.

If they are waiting until after they are married to buy a home together, then gifts in this area can prepare them for outdoor work.

Gift ideas:

Gift cards to garden centers so they can select their favorite plants

Gardening tools - usually small hand tools such as rakes, shovels, etc

Watering cans

Hoses and assorted nozzles

Sun hats

Gloves

Assorted books for ideas and plant references


HOME HOSPITALITY - this is the perfect shower for those couples who do lots of entertaining in their homes.


Host the party on the patio, or if the couple has a home and doesn't mind the shower there, it would be perfect.

Gift ideas - they are numerous!

Cheese and wine!

Bottles of wine from local wineries

Assortments of cheeses

Gift cards for wine and cheeses so they can be used at a later date

Assortment of beers

Serving glasses

Cheese boards and knives

Unique serving dishes for party foods

Recipe books for both party food and drinks


The list of ideas for showers is endless! Making them "unique" for the couple or bride is great!


If you want more ideas, I suggest you talk to the couples wedding planner, or one that you know in the area, they have fantastic ideas!

Happy planning!!!!

~Marilyn