Orgininally Published: on 8/6/16

Updated on: 

My, my how times have changed.  Back in the day when I was getting married, registering gifts was an often complicated, and time consuming process.  I recall my, then fiancé, and I frantically running around in stores like Crate & Barrel, Pier 1, and Target. At each store we were equipped with a store bar code scanner, which we used to zap the items we thought we might need in our new home together.  An exhausting process even for two young and excited love birds. 

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Nowadays, couples wait longer to marry, which means consolidating, rather than buying more "stuff".  And as many as 70 percent of them already live together prior to the "big day".  With these changes, comes the need for more options.  Below are a few unique, and tasteful alternatives for registering your upcoming nuptials.

• Merci Registry is great for those who need to ease into the art of requesting cash gifts.  It allows couples to classify their registry in 3 ways: 1) have cash funds sent directly to them, 2) allow group purchases or contributions in any amount towards say... a down payment on a home, or a dream honeymoon, and 3) create links to outside websites or online shops outside of the registry.  This third option however, requires that guests return to the site to mark the item as purchased.  You should also know that this site is linked to PayPal, and as such, all transactions are subject to a fee of 2.9%+$0.30.
• Tendr is a straight-forward option for those who want the cash - just the cash - and nothing but the cash.  But it allows you to request it without appearing, well...tacky.  Just choose from a variety of elegant templates to announce your event and customize it.  It can also be used for any occasion - not just weddings.  What's really cool is that you can download the Tendr logo or giftmark to use on your event (wedding, bridal shower, baby announcement) website.  And if you're super— ahem —ambitious, you can even post your Tendr URL on Facebook where, according to Tendr, users can receive up to 54% more in monetary gifts.   Here, gift givers pay a small convenience fee of $3 at checkout. 
• For those who are content with the subtle suggestion of a "wishing well", but  would still like to spruce up the place, there's Amazon Wedding Registry.  This Universal Registry allows couples to add anything to their list, even from other websites, using the "Add to Wishlist" button.  A list of gifters will be available throughout the process, in order to send thank you cards.  After your wedding AWR will send you a 10% off coupon (valid for 30 days) for select items across Amazon, and you'll  have up to 180 days after your wedding to return most items from your registry. 

Which ever avenue you decide to go with, just remember to love people above all else, and not things.   Congratulations, and make it a great day! 

Please remember to leave a comment in the box below.  I'd love to hear what other options you've chosen for your wedding registry.

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