Should you have a Registry for your Virtual Wedding?
Wedding registries always feel a little bit awkward for couples. It’s weird to ask for gifts as an adult. But don’t you worry about this. People love to shower newlyweds. It’s just a fun thing to do.
As weddings have changed, more and more “etiquette” has evolved around wedding registries. Is it okay to ask for money? How much should registry items cost? Should you do a registry for a destination wedding?
One more thing to add to the heap of wedding registry etiquette questions: should you have a registry for a virtual wedding?
Typically, even those who cannot attend a wedding will send a gift. But what if you aren’t technically even inviting those people to the wedding? Should you still ask for gifts?
The short answer: yes.
The long answer: heck yes!
You’re getting married! It’s so exciting! If guests don’t want to give you a gift because they are invited to join you virtually rather than in-person, that’s their prerogative. But, we promise, most people will.
The History of Wedding Registries
Giving gifts for weddings originated thousands of years ago with dowries – money or goods given to a bride’s family by the husband in order to secure her hand in marriage. Through the years, marriages have become less transactional and more celebratory, leading to other trends in wedding gifts.
Not surprisingly, the first true wedding registry is credited to Macy’s in New York City. This was a way for new wives to choose exactly which type of china and linens they wanted to display in their homes. These days, of course, wedding registries are designed to benefit the couple as a pair.
What to add to your wedding registry?
Wedding registries have changed a lot in the last couple of years. Registry trends have been leaning more toward experiences rather than material goods. This can include something as simple as a catch-all newlywed fund, a honeymoon fund, or even specific excursions or meals you hope to experience on your honeymoon (but honestly, are honeymoons even a thing right now? Thanks, COVID).
We are fully in support of monetary wedding registries! But we also recommend having a few physical items for guests who really value that tradition. Consider what you need, what you want to upgrade, and what you want.
For example, if your toaster is on the fritz, add a new one to your registry. If you’ve always wanted a KitchenAid mixer but can’t justify dropping $400 on it, add it to your registry. Maybe a generous relative will surprise you!
If you are your partner already live together, you likely have a lot of the home goods you need. If you will be moving in together after the wedding, decide what each of you already have, and use your registry to fill in the gaps.
That said, don’t forget to think outside of the kitchen! If you love camping, ask for a fancy cooler or a tent. If you plan on traveling, add some new luggage to your registry.
Add your Registry to your Virtual Wedding Page
When you stream your wedding with LoveStream, we can include a link to your registry right on your wedding website so guests can help you celebrate your love with a gift or donation while they watch your ceremony.
Photo credit: Libby McGowan Photography