The Best Places to Register for Wedding Gifts

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When it comes to registering for your wedding, the options of where to register can be quite daunting. Should you go into a physical store or register completely online? Although most people opt to register online these days for the convenience, some people still want to go into a brick and mortar and see pieces for themselves before they decide--so if that's something that's important to you make sure you choose a company where that's still an option.

In terms of deciding which registry programs are right for you, consider the perks and rewards they offer in relation to what you're looking for. Lots of registry programs offer additional free gifts when you register for products from certain brands, for example, which can really help you double down on how much you get out of your registry. Think you're going to need a lot of help and guidance along the way? Some programs offer intensive consultation or design services complementary, while others offer more baseline help (and a couple don't offer anything other than standard customer support), so make sure you look into that before you start registering.

At the end of the day, your registry should be about you and your partner's needs and wants. Are you more experience driven versus physical gifts? Look into registry programs like Zola, which gives you options to register for anything from cooking classes to gym memberships. If you're all about convenience, register somewhere like Amazon so you have the "universal registry" option (allowing you to add gifts from anywhere online).

To help you out, we've highlighted the best registry programs so you can figure out which of them fit you best. Good luck!

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01 of 16

Ready to Register?

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Each wedding registry service and retailer differs, but there are common features:

They're Free: Go ahead and get started; it won't cost you a penny to open a registry.

Infinite Options: There is no cap on the number of items you can add to your registry.

Online Organization: With online accounts, you can track your gifts, receive notifications when items have been purchased, and see what you still need at a glance.

Return Policy: With a gift receipt, you may exchange your gifts or receive store credit for them.

Completion Discount: Most registries offer a completion discount (usually starting at 10 percent), so you can purchase the items your guests didn't after you say your I dos.

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02 of 16

Amazon

pastel bedding
Courtesy of Amazon

Amazon's registry program is, of course, quite comprehensive. There are certain benefits for Prime members and lots of perks like bonus gifts for registering for certain brands.

Where to Register: Couples can register online.

Personal Assistance: Amazon has a robust customer service team but there isn't anything in the way of personalized registry creation with a consultant.

Tech Talk: Manage your registry through the Amazon app.

Registry Bonus: Install Amazon's Universal Registry tool and add items to your registry from anywhere online.

Good to Know: Amazon's Package X-Ray allows you to see what's inside all those packages you'll be getting without having to actually open them—just use the Amazon App to scan the barcode!

Ordering and Shipping Information: Prime members can ship registry items for free after spending over $25, and you have 180 days to return any wedding gifts you decide you don't want.

Gift Wrapping: As long as the item is shipping from Amazon or select merchants, gift wrapping is available and the price is dependent on the gift.

Completion Discount: You can receive a 20 percent off one time discount for Prime members and 10 percent non-Prime discount on the remaining items on your registry for up to 90 days after your wedding date (some price restrictions apply).

Expiration Date: Registries stay active for up to 90 days after your wedding date.

03 of 16

Bed Bath & Beyond

Uggs throw Blankets
Courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond

Bed Bath & Beyond is best for couples looking to register for basics for the home (from pots and pans to sheets and tableware), plus items from brands including Emerilware and Kate Spade.

Where to Register: Couples can register at over 1,000 storefronts nationwide or online.

Personal Assistance: The retailer has dedicated in-store registry consultants, available by appointment and on a walk-in basis.

Tech Talk: The retailer's app allows users to update their registries and learn about products from their phones.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Orders over $39 ship free. In addition, making returns here is simple—your registry is your receipt. Go ahead and register for everything you may want right now and know that you can change your mind later, with no penalties.

Gift Wrapping: Gift wrapping is free in-stores and $5.99 when purchased online.

Registry Bonus: Certain brands like Cuisinart and KitchenAid offer incentives (like free gifts and discounts) if you register for their products.

Completion Discount: After the wedding, you can purchase remaining items at a 20-percent-off discount code.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to two years after the wedding date.

04 of 16

Bloomingdale's

gray and navy kitchenware
Courtesy of Bloomingdale's

Couples looking for stylish home and kitchen essentials from brands such as Vera Wang and KitchenAid should register at Bloomingdale's.

Where to Register: Couples can register at all Bloomingdale's storefronts and online.

Personal Assistance: When you register in the store, you have access to your own registry consultant who will act like a personal shopper for your home.

Tech Talk: Bloomingdale's Big Brown Bag app allows users to update their registries and learn about products from their phones.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Registry purchases of $150 or more ship free and may be returned at any time. Purchases made online can be returned by mail or at Bloomingdale's stores.

Gift Wrapping: Pricing ranges from $8 for a small box to $15 for an extra-large box.

Registry Bonus: The thank-you manager creates an organized list of who bought what and when from your registry. Receive special perks when you create a registry, like 20% off dresses, suiting, and intimates.

Completion Discount: You can receive 10 percent off the remaining items on your registry for up to six months after the wedding date, plus 20 percent off a one-time registry purchase up to three months after your wedding.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to six months after the wedding date, but depending on gift-buying activity during that time period, this may be extended.

05 of 16

Crate & Barrel

Champagne flute and olives
Courtesy of Crate & Barrel

Crate & Barrel is the place for couples that want to register for everything from high-end kitchen essentials from brands like Le Creuset and Wüsthof to colorful home décor.

Where to Register: Couples can register at Crate & Barrel storefronts nationwide or online.

Personal Assistance: Attend one of its Wedding Parties Events for one-on-one advice from dedicated registry experts.

Tech Talk: The retailer's app allows users to update their registries and learn about products from their phones.

Good to Know: Its registry is open stock, which allows you to pick and choose the individual piece you want versus having to purchase them as a full place setting.

Registry Bonus: When you register at Crate & Barrel you get $15 off a one-time suit rental from The Black Tux, 15 percent off wedding invitations from Paper Source, and 10 percent off Couples Resorts.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Registry purchases of $99 or more ship free. Returns and exchanges are accepted within 90 days.

Gift Wrapping: There is a flat fee of $5.50 per gift box.

Completion Discount: You can receive a 15 percent off the remaining items on your registry for up to three months after the wedding date.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to 18 months after the wedding date.

06 of 16

JCPenney

Side table white accents decorations
Courtesy of JCPenny

Register at JCPenney to stock up on home décor from an array of popular brands.

Where to Register: Couples can register at more than 1,000 stores nationwide or online.

Personal Assistance: When you register in a store, you'll receive a comprehensive Wedding Registry Guide with answers to FAQs, online tools, and a registry checklist.

Tech Talk: The retailer's app allows users to update their registries and learn about products from their phones.

Good to Know: JCPenney has one of the most extensive china collections and is constantly adding new patterns.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Registry purchases of $25 or more ship free. Items are eligible for exchange or refund for the price on the gift receipt in the form of a gift card.

Gift Wrapping: There is a cost of $4 per item for gift wrapping.

Completion Discount: You can receive 10 percent off the remaining items on your registry for up to six months after the wedding date.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active for up to one year after the wedding date.

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Macy's

Striped Banddding & accent pieces
Courtesy of Macy's

This retailer has everything you need for your home—including the Martha Stewart Collection, available only at Macy's.

Where to Register: Couples can register at 636 storefronts nationwide or online.

Personal Assistance: Receive expert tips and advice from your very own Registry Advisor.

Tech Talk: The retailer's app allows users to update their registries and learn about products from their phones.

Registry Bonus: Register for certain brands and you'll get a free gift from them (each brand has a specific requirement for what or how much you register from them to get the reward).

Good to Know: When guests purchase items off your registry, they receive $20 off their next $50 purchase.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Registry purchases of $75 or more ship free. You have one year from the purchase date to return and exchange items bought from your registry.

Gift Wrapping: Macy's will charge a flat fee of $6 for gift wrapping, no matter how many packages, per delivery address.

Completion Discount: You can receive 20 percent off the remaining items on your registry (and 10 percent off for furniture, mattresses, and rugs) for up to six months after the wedding date.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to 13 months after the wedding date, or the last date of activity, whichever date is later.

08 of 16

Neiman Marcus

Whit marble bathroom accessories
Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Couples looking for a hands-on experience should register at their local Neiman Marcus for items from high-end brands like Michael Aram and Waterford Crystal.

Where to Register: Couples can register at any Neiman Marcus location, with the exception of those in Los Angeles, Bal Harbour, and Westchester. An online registry is available to those who do not live near a store.

Personal Assistance: Sales associates are always available to assist couples with their wish lists. If you live in Texas, Neiman Marcus's Northpark and Houston locations have devoted Registry Consultants.

Ordering and Shipping Information: All gift purchases come with free shipping, regardless of the amount. You can exchange any Neiman Marcus purchase for a gift card within one year of your wedding date.

Gift Wrapping: Gift wrapping is complimentary on all registry purchases.

Hold the Gifts: You can decide exactly when you want your gifts shipped.

Completion Discount: Get 10 percent off remaining gifts up to one year after your wedding.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to five years after the wedding date.

09 of 16

Pottery Barn

Outdoor glassware and pitcher
Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn is ideal for couples that want to register for stylish furniture, hotel-inspired bedding, classic dinnerware, and items that can easily be engraved or monogrammed.

Where to Register: Couples can register at over 200 storefronts across the country or online.

Personal Assistance: Pottery Barn's Design Studio Specialists are experts at helping couples create the home of their dreams. The specialists will come to your home, or you can receive a free consultation at a store or by phone.

Registry Bonus: If you register at Pottery Barn, you qualify for exclusive savings on all Wedding Paper Divas invitations, thank-you notes, and more, which includes its Pottery Barn stationery collection. You'll also receive a complimentary set of thank-you notes when you register in stores.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Standard shipping rates apply. Return items (with a receipt) for a refund or exchange them for merchandise of an equivalent value. You can process your returns online and ship gifts back, or bring them into any of the stores.

Gift Wrapping: For a flat fee of $6, Pottery Barn can wrap each guest's gift. There is also an option for them to include a personal message for free.

Completion Discount: You can receive 10 percent off the remaining items on your registry for up to six months after the wedding date.

Good to Know: If you register for Pottery Barn gift cards, they can be redeemed at sister stores Williams-Sonoma and West Elm.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to six months after the wedding date.

10 of 16

Sur La Table

Turquoise cookware
Courtesy of Sur La Table

Couples looking to register for kitchen products, from popular brands like Nespresso and Vitamix, in every price range should consider Sur La Table.

Where to Register: Couples can register online or at any of Sur La Table's 130 locations nationwide.

Personal Assistance: A dedicated registry concierge can guide you through the process and offer expert advice at private in-store registry events.

Registry Bonus: Not only will you receive a small gift from Sur La Table when you register, but you'll also receive bonus gifts from brands if you register for certain amounts of their products. For example, after guests purchase $400 or more of Cuisinart products, you'll receive a free set of mixing bowls.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Standard shipping rates apply. You can return gifts within 60 days of your event date or purchase date, whichever is later, with a proof of purchase. The retailer will either replace the item or exchange it for another item or a Sur La Table gift card equal to the amount of the returned item.

Gift Wrapping: For a $5 per item fee, you can have gifts wrapped.

Hold the Gifts: The retailer does not hold gifts. However, it does enable couples to indicate pre-event and post-event shipping addresses.

Completion Discount: You can receive 10 percent off the remaining items on your registry for up to six months after the wedding date.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to 18 months after the wedding date. However, the retailer is happy to keep it open for longer if you let them know.

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Target

target bedding and room decor
Courtesy of Target

Target is ideal for couples that want to register for everyday essentials from brands such as Keurig and Pyrex, plus nontraditional gifts like bikes, grills, and even camping equipment.

Where to Register: Couples can register at all Target storefronts and online.

Registry Bonus: If you register in the store, you'll receive a welcome kit including a coupon book and offers from various brands.

Good to Know: Target works with Honeyfund so you can register for cash gifts.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Registry purchases of $35 or more get free two day shipping. You can return or exchange gifts up to one year after the date of the event.

Gift Wrapping: This service is available in stores only.

Completion Discount: After your wedding date, you'll receive a 15-percent-off coupon that you can use to purchase remaining items on your registry.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to 18 months after the wedding date.

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12 of 16

Williams-Sonoma

williams-sonoma gold kitchenware
Courtesy of Williams-Sonoma

Couples looking for elegant and top-rated kitchen essentials from brands such as Calphalon and All-Clad should register at Williams-Sonoma.

Where to Register: Couples can register at over 220 storefronts nationwide or online.

Personal Assistance: Make a free, private appointment with one of its registry specialists for one-on-one guidance.

Tech Talk: The retailer's app allows users to update their registries and learn about products from their phones.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Standard shipping rates apply. You can receive store credit with no expiration date on returns.

Gift Wrapping: Gift wrapping is $6 per address.

Completion Discount: You can receive 10 percent off the remaining items on your registry, and any additional items you add, for up to six months after the wedding date.

Good to Know: Don't understand how to use your new coffee machine? You can come back to the store at any time to learn.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to one year after the wedding date, and there is also the option to reactivate them at any time.

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Zola

zola kitchenware
Courtesy of Zola

Online destination Zola is a good choice for couples that want to register for everything from home essentials, from brands like Waterford and Simplehuman, to honeymoon funds and activities—all from the comfort of their couch.

Where to Register: Couples can register at online retailers, physical storefronts, and small shops through Zola.

Personal Assistance: VIP Registry Advisors are available to help at support@zola.com or 1 (408) 657-9652. If you live in the NYC area, you can visit the Zola Townhouse for in-person consultations.

Tech Talk: Zola's highly rated app is intuitive, and easy to use on the go.

Registry Bonus: Zola can act like Pinterest—just download the Zola button to your internet browser's bookmarks bar and you can add items to your registry from any online store.

Good to Know: Zola's approximate two-and-a-half percent fee on honeymoon funds is the lowest in the industry.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Registry purchases ship free (except for larger items like furniture). Zola offers free returns within 90 days of shipment for all products found on its site (with the exception of perishables, such as food subscriptions). Products purchased from external sites are subject to the shipping and return policies of that retailer.

Gift Wrapping: Zola currently does not offer gift wrapping.

Hold the Gifts: You can decide exactly when you want your gifts shipped.

Completion Discount: You can receive 20 percent off the remaining items on your registry for up to six months after the wedding date.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active for up to one year after the wedding date. However, Zola is happy to keep it open for longer if you let them know.

14 of 16

Wayfair

wayfair registry
Courtesy of Wayfair

Wayfair's registry is perfect for the couple who wants a more personal experience. Although they don't have brick and mortar locations, Wayfair offers lots of personalized consultation options and has a very extensive list of brands and large range of products.

Where to Register: Couples can register online.

Personal Assistance: Wayfair has an extensive amount of personalized, expert consultation options—including support for your guests.

Tech Talk: Manage your registry and view gifts via the Wayfair app.

Registry Bonus: Allow your guests to go in on bigger ticket items together with group gifting options.

Good to Know: Mark items you really, really want as "most-wanted" to give them a little nudge.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Get free shipping on all registry items plus free returns within 90 days for store credit.

Completion Discount: Receive 10 percent off remaining gifts for up to six months after your wedding date.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active for up to 14 months after your wedding date.

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West Elm

west elm colorful plates
Courtesy of West Elm

West Elm is a great option for the couple with a modern style who wants lots of added perks.

Where to Register: Couples can register online and in over 85 stores nationwide.

Personal Assistance: West Elm offers consultations to help you merge styles as well as help registering for specific rooms of your house. Additionally, they offer design services and installation options.

Tech Talk: Manage your registry and view gifts via the West Elm, as well as adding products you find in-store via scanning.

Registry Bonus: Enjoy a slew of perks when you register, like one week of unlimited Pure Barre classes and 20 percent off Minted purchases.

Good to Know: Register for any of West Elm's fairtrade or handcrafted pieces and you'll be supporting artisans all over the world.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Standard shipping rates apply, and you have 90 days to return a gift for a refund or exchange.

Gift Wrapping: It's a $5.50 charge to gift wrap.

Completion Discount: Receive 15 percent off remaining gifts for up to one year after your wedding date.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active for up to one year after your wedding date.

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Blueprint Registry

Gold Accent mantle decoration
Courtesy of Blueprint

If you only want to register online, seek out Blueprint Registry. The website supports a visual layout that enables you to search for gifts by room, allowing you to see exactly what you want, need, and desire from big-name retailers like Amazon and Anthropologie and designer brands such as Dwell Studio.

Where to Register: Guests can choose options from any company, regardless of size or scope, that has an online retail presence. Just use the "Add to Blueprint" button, which can be bookmarked on an internet browser toolbar, to easily upload products while shopping online.

Personal Assistance: Blueprint's concierge team will help build your registry.

Tech Talk: Couples can access Blueprint Registry through its responsive mobile site that performs similarly to an app.

Registry Bonus: You can mark any gift as a group gift so that friends and family can contribute together toward big-ticket items.

Good to Know: For cash and experience gifts, Blueprint Registry passes on the credit card transaction fee of two-and-a-half percent to the guest at the time of purchase.

Ordering and Shipping Information: Gifts are shipped as they are ordered, rather than in groups or by request; the store from which the item is purchased manages the sales tax charged and shipping and handling fees. All returns are subject to the policies of the retailer that ships the gift. However, every present received comes with a gift receipt.

Gift Wrapping: Blueprint Registry currently does not offer gift wrapping.

Hold the Gifts: Blueprint allows you to hold cash and group gifts. Single gifts are shipped as they are processed.

Completion Discount: Get a 10 percent discount on select items that weren't purchased up to a year after your wedding date.

Expiration Date: Registries stay active up to one year after the wedding date.

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