Weddingbee boards

We are planning on registering at the usual suspects - Target, Crate and Barrel, etc. but are really disappointed that there is no option that allows us to pick up gifts in a local store (thus saving guests shipping charges). As an online shopping maven, I do everything possible to avoid or minimize shipping charges, so we had hoped to be able to do this for our guests. So far I've called Target, Crate and Barrel, Linens-N-Things and Macy's, and noone offers this option. Do you know of any stores that will do this?

If not, we figured these are some of our options:

1) Register as usual, but somehow tactfully suggest that people get us gift cards (which incur little to no shipping) instead of buying the actual gift. 

2) Register on amazon.com for specific items that are eligible for free shipping (though this will seriously limit our options, and take extra time/research)

Of course people can always bring gifts to the wedding, which would be fine for us, but I feel like it's just more hassle for them.

What are your thoughts? Do you get as annoyed by shipping costs as we do (it can add a fair amount to the cost of the gift!!)? As a guest, would you appreciate our efforts in this vein, or is it putting too much attention on the gift-getting aspect? I also really don't want to do anything that screams "Buy us a gift!" even if we are trying to do a good thing.

Any ideas or suggestions would be appreciated!

I think Amazon is a good option.  I registered there, and it is pretty easy to sort out the "non Amazon shippers" after you search "Fiesta Dishes" for example.  On the left side, there is a section titled "category", then click "home and garden".  A new page will load, and then on the left a few sections down you will see "seller", then ta-da - Amazon.com.  This will list everything that qualifies for free super saving shipping on all orders over $25.  fantastico.  I am registered there, but it is still early so can't review it yay or nay yet.  It is very easy to maintain, though.  Good luck!

Thanks for the thoughts, everyone. As for suggesting coupon codes and being tacky, it walks a fine line doesn't it! The whole registry thing is awkward for me, but I'm not going to deny that I've been really anticipating getting some le creuset stuff :)

I guess we'll investigate the Amazon option a bit more. Unfortunately, I've already picked our dishware at Crate and Barrel (a few years ago, hee hee) and I don't want (to look for) another set. But I guess if we do Amazon for actual items, and CB for gift cards, that could still work. That is, if people like giving gift cards as gifts (I personally don't).

Linensandthings has options where you can select in-store pick up.   I'm not sure how it works witht he registry, but you can ask.      I registered at Bed, bath and beyond,  and was concerned about the same thing.  But it looks like their shipping rates were only $10-15.  It's based on amount not weight and they offer free gift wrapping.   So I thought it wasn't too bad.