Wedding Registry Rules

The big day is filled with family, friends, romance and the icing on the cake- presents! Registering is a fun opportunity to really get to know your partner's taste. Make the gifting gracious and fun for your guests by observing a little registry etiquette.

Though it's seen as gauche to include registry information with the wedding invites, it can be properly included with those for the shower. Facilitate shopping by registering at stores that offer multiple locations, gift-wrapping, easy returns, shipping, and on-line purchases. Don't be shy when building your list. It's better to "over register" and let late shoppers still have a choice. Plus, many department stores offer a 10 to 15% discount for registry completion. The top trends in registry gifts are all about the good life~ accessories for cocktails and entertaining, sports, and travel let cosmopolitan couples celebrate stylishly.

A Cut Above
The young need home basics, but couples with established households can use the registry to upgrade the kitchen. The Calphalon Contemporary 15-Piece Cutlery Set satisfies brides and groom of all levels of culinary expertise. The name of each knife is etched on the handle for ease. For gourmands, the hand-forged high carbon knives are well balanced, ergonomic and superbly strong.

Tub for Two
Sexy shower gifts need not be lingerie. Indulge the happy pair with premium bath linens. Spa night is much more cozy when cuddled in the Noble Excellence Micro Cotton Towel. Extremely fine long cotton fibers are twisted into an exquisitely soft, lightweight, and absorbent towels. The Micro Cotton collection colors match any décor - choose from almond, bluestone, calypso, celery, clove, honey, ocean, pearl, rosewood, truffle, or wheat.

Kiss the Cook
Whether it's a candlelit dinner for deux or holidays with the in-laws, you can't make a great meal without the right tools. Modern couples want cookware that's both pretty and practical. The easy-to-clean Calphalon Contemporary Nonstick Cookware Set is at the top of registry lists. Long handles stay cool. Sauce and sauté pans are at home in the oven or on the range.

Silver Spoons
These spoons have classic lines and contemporary forms. The slim handles elegantly curve into teardrop tips. Robert Welch Province Mirror flatware is at home on any table. One versatile sets the table for Saturday cereal or for foie gras with friends. The high-shine finish is 18/10 stainless steel for years of dinner parties to come.

Fashion Plate
Set the table with chic china. The Vera Wang Lace pattern brings the designer's ladylike style to Wedgewood. The fine bone china is inspired by Wang's elegant wedding dresses. Each piece, from dinner plates to teapots, features a different delicate border in platinum. The luxurious dinnerware will set a romantic table for many anniversaries to come.

Sweet Dreams
The honeymoon doesn't have to end at the hotel. The happy pair can snuggle sweetly under super soft sheets. Refined bed linens in rich colors create a cozy haven for the newlyweds. A 350-thread count set assures smooth sheets for years.

Swell Petals
In Europe, flowers are considered a daily need rather than a luxury. Brighten the new home with beautiful blooms. Give cut stems a good home in a Kate Spade vase. The designer's talent for combining classic and contemporary style translates well to this clean collection of home accessories.

Party Favorites
It can be just as fun to give as it is to receive. Thank your gracious guests with personalized favors. These items are just as easy and economical as Jordan almonds, but add a touch of whimsy to the table. Set the place with a tiny silver frame or bud vase with the guest's initials. Try custom-labeled bottles of water, wine, and olive oil or packets of coffee, cocoa, and tea with sentiments from the happy couple.