Like most couples nowadays, you've probably considered signing up for a bridal registry, since doing so saves your guests from the hassle of guessing what to give you. However, most people are unsure how they should tell guests about their registry. Sometimes relatives or sponsors may ask you directly for gift suggestions, and you know they're willing to shoulder something expensive--when this happens, is it polite to ask them for a specific gift, which you may or may not have included in the registry? In any case, how much should your gifts cost?

MAREX'S ANSWER:

Truth is, practicing proper etiquette means not placing even registry cards in the invitations. However, this thinking has greatly changed over the last decade. Nowadays, most guests find it extremely helpful to have a list to choose from, as they want to know what you need and/or want, especially if you plan to move in to a new place. For them, it is better to get you something that you'll surely use, rather than something that you might end up just keeping in storage, ultimately being a waste.

You know your guests. If you think they will not mind at all, then include a bridal registry card in the invitations. If you think they'll find it improper, then don't put anything. Instead, just include the link to your bridal registry in your wedding website, assuming you have one, and then invite everyone to visit the site.

Another way to let people know where you are registered is through word of mouth. Instead of asking you directly, some guests choose to ask your immediate family if they have any idea as to what you want. Make sure you inform your parents and your siblings before the invites are sent out to guests, so they know what to answer when they're asked.

The costs of the pre-selected items in your registry have to vary. Best to have a range from average to expensive, as the purchasing power of your guests are not all the same.

If a relative and/or a principal sponsor asks you directly and says that s/he is willing to buy you something expensive, then it is acceptable to ask for a specific item that may not necessarily be in the registry. The key word is "willing." However, you still need to consider his/her buying capacity. It is best to give the guest two to three choices and just let him/her decide which one to buy.

Regardless of how you choose to keep your guests about your registry, keep in mind that more than anything, their presence--not their gifts--at what is probably one of the most important days of your life is what truly matters.

About Marex Gaba:

Party Planner Extraordinaire Marex Gaba is a consummate events expert with more than a decade's worth of experience in events planning, management and directing. Creative, meticulous and versatile, his main objective is to translate his clients' ideas and requests into fabulously elegant, well-designed, and totally hassle-free events.

Marex has been a member of the Philippine Association of Wedding Planners (PAWP) since 2007. He is a member of the Board of Trustees, and is currently the vice president.