WeddingChannel.com

If you've read my story, you know I've thought a lot about gift-giving. I'd love to help with any questions you have - about the registry process, the best products, or etiquette dilemmas. So read some of the more popular questions featured here, or feel free to send me a question.



I've heard that you're not supposed to bring your gift to the wedding. Is this true?

Traditional etiquette says that it's much better to send your gift to the couple before the wedding - and common sense says the same thing. If you bring the gift with you, you run the risk of it being misplaced or left behind. An added benefit of shipping is that you get a tracking number so that you can be sure the gift arrived safely. All in all, it's much easier on everyone to have the gift shipped directly from the store.

I'm getting married for the second time. Is it OK to register?

Certainly! Your families, and many of your close friends, will undoubtedly want to give you a gift in honor of this special occasion.

When registering for a second wedding, there are two things to keep in mind: first, ask family and friends to spread the word to anyone who was invited to your first wedding that you do not expect a gift from them.

Second, keep your registry fairly simple. Remember, the items on a wedding registry fall into two basic categories -- items that you and your fiancé need to start your new home together (such as cookware, and towels) or items which, although they do serve a purpose, are more often given as a celebration of your wedding or a token of the guest's affection for you. Since you have already been married and, presumably, received many gifts at your first wedding, you should not register for any traditional items that you don't need. Those guests who want to give you something to mark this occasion may appreciate non-traditional gifts such as gourmet gifts, camping gear or spa packages.

Common Questions
How do I make sure people know where I'm registered? I've heard it's not proper etiquette to tell people directly.

I really don't think I want fine china, do I have to register for it anyway?

Who traditionally hosts and pays for bridal showers?

I need to find a nice hostess gift for a family friend. Do you have any suggestions?

Is it impolite to have items on a registry that are more than $100 dollars?

We are planning to "elope" next year. We have invited our families and closest friends to join us, and then we will go out to a nice restaurant. Do we still register?

I recently became engaged. Our wedding is 1 1/2 years away. When should we register? When do I have a bridal shower? I have so many questions!!

If you receive an invitation for an engagement party is a gift required, and if so, what kind of gift?

How do I get my fiancé involved in the registry process?

How soon should we register?

What are great gift ideas for my bridesmaids?

Who traditionally hosts bridal showers?

Should I purchase gifts for my parents?

Should I register for engagement party gifts?

Should I give my husband-to-be a gift on our wedding day?