It’s that time of year! Engagements are in full swing and fall weddings are right around the corner. With a new ring, name and new house comes new opportunities to host your friends and family, as well as create new traditions. I joined forces with one of my favorite stores, Pottery Barn, to share a few of the registry tips I share with my couples to help make their house feel more like home.

• A registry is the best way to politely suggest items you would like to receive as you start your life as a married couple. Register for high and low end items and don’t be afraid to register for a few fun things. If you register for what you love, and not what a general guide tells you that you have to have, it’s less likely you will have to return any gifts.
  
• In my experience it’s good to register at 3 locations; a department store, a large retailer (available in most cities) and a local boutique. This will allow each of your guests to shop where they feel comfortable. 
  
• Think about your lifestyle and what you would like for your home. If you love the outdoors and don’t plan on hosting any formal events china and crystal might not be the best fit. Instead, start with the basics. A great set of dishes, flatware and glassware can be great layering pieces. Add seasonal napkins, placements and chargers to change the look of your table.
  
• Just like seasons change so does inventory! It’s likely that if you register for your fall wedding in the spring the floral print pillows you placed on your registry might not be available by the time of your wedding. Always refresh your registry at the change of any season. 
  
• Another great time to refresh your registry is after any pre-wedding event. It’s possible that for your engagement party or bridal shower your guests will shop your registries. Make sure there are items left for guests who may not have been able to attend, or might still be looking for a gift for your wedding day. 
  
• Test things out in person! Do you like the way the fork that you saw online feels in your hand? Is the coffee mug you love the perfect one for your morning java? It’s ok to mix and match, your wine glasses may not be the same as your every day drinking glasses you already own and love. 
  
• It is never proper etiquette to list your registries on your save-the-date on invitation. Instead, list your registries on your wedding website and let your maid of honor, mother and mother-in-law know so they can answer registry related questions when they are asked. 

Were there great tips you received when registering? We would love for you to share your tips and tricks below as well!