Sometimes creating a gift registry can seem overwhelming. So many choices, from cookware to flatware. What do I need and how much?  What stores do I choose? There are many options available. RegistryFinder.com has put together some quick tips and ideas for creating the perfect gift registry for any occasion.

The first tip is to relax and HAVE FUN! Just remember, there will be very few times in your life where you will be able to pick anything you want. Wedding gift registries and baby gift registries also make the gift buying experience easier on your family and friends, and with just a few organizational tips and some advice, we can help you create a gift registry that is diverse, practical, and appealing.

What Stores To Choose?

First, pick your “soul-mate” store. It’s easy to figure out. Where do you love to shop and buy things? What retailer reflects your style or lifestyle? Next, pick one or two other stores that offer a different type of merchandise or a different price point. For example, while some of your guests may feel comfortable shopping at Neiman-Marcus, others will prefer a store like Bed Bath & Beyond.  You may choose Crate & Barrel for your household items, and Target for your small appliances. Whichever stores you choose, make sure they have an online gift registry. This makes your gift registry accessible to all potential gift-givers.

What to Include In Your Gift Registry

First, take an inventory of what you already own. Then, decide on what you’re going to keep, what needs to be upgraded, and what new items you’ll need. Don’t feel obligated to include things just because you’ve seen other people put them on their gift registries. Make sure to register for items that you want and will actually use. If you already have a good set of kitchen knives and plenty of serving dishes, then don’t include them. If you’re combining households, this is a great opportunity to turn your mismatched “mine” and “yours” into a new “ours.” It’s the time to replace or trade up. From a tiny zester to that standing mixer, even crystal, china, and luggage, this is your chance to get the things you’ve always wanted.

Offer a Wide Price Range for All Your Gift Registry Items

One of the most important things to think about when creating your gift registry is the price range of your gift registry items. Register for gifts in a wide range of price points to offer gift givers multiple options depending on their budget. Remember, when you’re creating your wedding or baby registry, guests will usually attend more than one event per occasion, as there are often parties and showers that people will bring gifts to. Another helpful tip is to register for twice as many gifts as givers, but only count couples as one giver. Your friends and family will appreciate having a variety of choices when they shop for you.

Organizing Your Gift Registry

When creating your registry, it’s best to divide it into categories, especially when creating a wedding gift registry, bridal shower registry, or baby shower registry. Categories for a wedding registry can include Kitchen, Dining, Bedroom, For the Home, and Travel. Categories for a baby shower registry can include Bedding, Clothing, Bath, Feeding, Educational, and Fun. This will help you keep your registry organized, making sure you don’t leave out any important items.

Register Early

Lastly, register well in advance. It takes time; so don’t rush it. Remember this is supposed to be fun, so don’t stress about it. You can always change your mind. Almost all stores have online gift registries that allow you to update them at any time.

Let your friends and family know they can find all your gift registries by simply searching on RegistryFinder.com. Also consider asking your shower host/hostess to print RegistryFinder.com on the shower invitations making it easy for the guests to find all your gift registries in one place using our FREE online gift registry search engine.