Happy Wednesday! Thank you all for the love you have shown this series! I have actually had more than one reader ask me to do a post on "non-traditional" gift registries, so here goes...
Non-traditional gift registries have become increasingly popular over the past several years. Many different factors may contribute to a couple's desire to have a less "traditional" registry, including the age in life when they get married, and their relative "need" for items to help start them in a new home. While a non-traditional registry may not be for everyone, here are some things to keep in mind if you are considering registering for something other than a set of mixing bowls:
1. Set up a non-traditional registry that reflects a shared interests of you and your fiance. For instance, if you both love to garden, register for a wheelbarrow, gloves, and your favorite spring bulbs at a garden store. Prefer to spend time outdoors together? Consider registering for a kayak, a camping stove, or even a new set of bikes at your local outdoor store. It will be much easier for guests to splurge on these less than traditional items if they know you and your fiance can enjoy them together!
2. Keep in mind that you can register for "experiences" as well as tangible gifts. There are several sites out there that allow a couple to register for
honeymoon activities, a new
ipad or computer, or even help with a
down payment on a first home. While these options may not appeal to all of your guests, many will like the idea of contributing to your first weeks or years as a married couple. Some of these sites include various transaction fees so be sure to read the fine print before signing up!
3. Consider a charitable registry. Sign up at
weddingchannel.com, and you and your fiance can select a charity to receive a donation each time a guest purchases something from your registry. The site can also be set up to offer guests the option to donate directly to a charity of the couple's choice. Another great option is to use a site like
crowdrise that allows a couple to set up a fundraiser for a specific cause. For more help choosing a charity, check out
this post.
4. Remember, while non-traditional registries are fun, it is also a good idea to register for some more "traditional"wedding items. While many guests will love the idea of buying a hot-air balloon ride for your honeymoon, it is just as likely that grandma will want to purchase you a silver tray you can keep forever. The bottom line is that while non-traditional wedding registries are catching on, many people will still be more comfortable purchasing you a more traditional gift and you want to give them some guidance as to your preferences and tastes.
In addition to just creating these "non-traditional" registries, consider having a friend throw you a shower geared towards one of your less traditional registries. (Just remember- never ask someone to throw you a shower- just be ready with an idea in case a close friend offers!) So, rather than having a kitchen shower, a couple could have a BBQ and Backyard Shower. Guests would be encouraged to bring grill tools and items to be used in landscaping a back yard, rather than stemware and fine china.
Sounds like fun right? While Josh and I didn't have a "non-traditional" registry (we were babies and needed to outfit our first house) I think the idea of registering for something you and your fiance enjoy doing together is a great option. I think I would have registered for a set of bikes...
What non-traditional registry item would you register for?
As always, please email me if you have any specific questions or would like help compiling your wedding registry.
xo,
No comments:
Post a Comment