Weddingbee boards

When it came time for me and the Office Groom to start our registry, we were both really looking forward to it. The idea of walking around a department store, scanning whatever our little hearts desired tickeled our fancy.

That is, until we actually started the process. Stress levels gradually heightened as we perused the store. There were too many coffee maker options, disagreements between this pot and that pot, and the sudden worry that we were asking for too many things...and too many expensive things. After only an hour of scanning we were done for and ready to go home and deflate.

Sound familiar?

How happy was I when soon after that experience I learned that this is common for most engaged couples? What is suppose to be a fun experience somehow turns into a chore - but it doesn't have to be this way! After that first hour of registering, the Office Groom and I learned some valuable lessons which made the second visit (and third, and an upcoming fourth) a breeze.

So grab some paper and a pen from your top drawer, and take some notes on how to have a stress-free Gift Registry:

A good excuse to buy another magazine
If you have some room after purchasing a dozen so bridal magazines, pick up a few new ones with a home decor theme. Look through it with your partner and the both of you should point out details and items that catch your eye. This will hopefully narrow down styles and avoid any surprises on each others' style preferences once you hit the store. The internet is also a wonderful source for ideas! Check out Kitchen & Bath Ideas for some inspiration. Nothing beats a classic like Better Homes and Gardens. My personal fave is Fresh Home Magazine which has great DIY projects and more contemporary styles.

Lists are your BFF
One big way to avoid the stress is to come prepared. Now that you and your partner have a sense of the style you want for each room, you should write up a list of items you would like / need on the registry. Walk around your place(s) and make note of which essential items are either missing or need to be replaced. When I first moved out of my parents place, I bought an inexpensive "kitchen in a box" at a grocery store that had every needed kitchen item. However, most of the stuff was either plastic or just down right poorly made, so a lot of it has to be replaced for the future home. Divide your lists by room: Kitchen, Bathroom, Bedroom, Living Room, Dining Room.

Rome wasn't built in a day. Duh.
So don't expect to get your registry done in one session either. Pick a room and focus on that for the day. Trust me - on average couples work on the registry over 3 to 4 visits. It'll give you a chance to organize better and revise anything along the way.