AisleDash

I've always thought that gift registries were a little on the tacky side. When I get an invitation with registry cards stuffed in, I feel like the couple is telling me "Come celebrate with us! And bring this $200 silver platter with you, will you?"

On the other hand, I'm really bad at picking out gifts, and I really appreciate the guidance of a registry. I wish I could be that person who picks out the most original, most perfect gift, but at least with a registry I know I'm getting something the couple wants and/or needs.

What if you and your future spouse have already established a home, either separately or together, and you really don't need anything? You can tell your guests on the invitation "no gifts, please," but many (most?) people are still going to want to get you something, and if you don't register, you're going to get a lot of things you either already have, don't need, don't want, or don't match the other things you've got. So think outside the box of housewares and register for something else you've always wanted. You'd be surprised at all the things you can register for -- even your honeymoon.