How to make a wedding registry
Jan 17, 2025
Tying the knot is a chance to celebrate the love that you and your fiancé have for one another. But the bonus is all the gifts you’ll receive!
Here, we’ll walk you through how to make a wedding registry so that you receive gifts you actually want and use throughout your married life. But first…
What is a wedding registry?
A wedding registry is a list of gifts that a couple would like to receive in celebration of their big day.
Just like a wishlist, the idea is to point your family and friends towards the gifts you actually want and need.
However, with a wedding registry, items will be ticked off as they’re bought so that you don’t receive duplicate gifts.
Plus, depending on your wedding registry provider, you may be able to access additional features.
For instance, with a Moonsift wedding registry, you’ll have the option to add a cash fund so that guests can contribute towards bigger-ticket items – like your honeymoon.
Head over to our dedicated guide on what is a wedding registry to learn more.
How far in advance should you make a wedding registry?
Most experts recommend making your wedding registry around 6 to 9 months before the big day.
But there are no set rules! So, it’s all about what you feel comfortable with.
If possible, we’d recommend erring on the earlier side.
After all, giving your guests plenty of notice will mean they’re not scrambling around last-minute. Plus, it will prevent them from unknowingly going off-piste and getting you a gift from elsewhere.
With that in mind, the earlier you can create and share your wedding registry, the better!
How to make a wedding registry
Most couples nowadays create their wedding registry online.
This way, it’s quick, easy and hassle-free to pick out and add your favorite items – and just as easy for your loved ones to nab them for you!
Here are the steps involved.
1. Choosing a wedding registry provider
First things first, you’ll need to choose a wedding registry provider.
Some shops offer in-store wedding registries – like Pottery Barn and Target. But choosing one of these will mean you’re restricted to only items sold by that store.
Alternatively, you can opt for a universal wedding registry, like Moonsift.
These wedding registries allow you to add items from any store in the world. So, you can fill your registry with all the items you’ve got your eye on – wherever they may be.
2. How to set up a wedding registry
Next, it’s time to set up your wedding registry.
Usually, the first step is to create an account on your chosen wedding registry provider’s website – although every provider will work slightly differently.
Some providers may take payment. But setting up a Moonsift wedding registry is completely free!
3. Adding items to your wedding registry
Now’s for the fun bit – deciding what items you want to add!
If you’ve selected a universal wedding registry, you’ll be able to add any item you choose – no matter where it’s being sold.
Moonsift’s universal ‘save’ button makes life even easier as you can browse like normal and add items to your registry with just one click – whether you’re on desktop or your mobile device.
4. Hone your wedding registry
Before you make your registry public, you’ll want to go through and check that you’re happy with your choices.
Make sure there are items on there that span a range of price points, so there’s something suitable for everyone.
But equally, don’t give your guests too much choice – rather, making sure all the items on there are ones you’ll actually want is the best way to put a smile on your face (and your fiancé’s!).
5. Sharing your wedding registry
Finally, it’s time to publish your wedding registry and share it with your loved ones.
At Moonsift, you can share your registry with one simple link to keep things straightforward.
Pop it in a WhatsApp message or add it to your wedding invites. But most importantly, make sure to include it clearly on your wedding website!
Top tips for setting up a wedding registry
So, now you know how to make a wedding registry.
But how do you make sure yours is as fantastic as it can be?
Here are our top tips.
Include a range of price points
Always make sure to add items to your wedding registry that span a range of price points.
This way, you can make sure that nobody feels pressured into spending more than they’re comfortable with.
Search for inspiration
Not sure what to add to your wedding registry?
Consider adding a range of products and experiences – from items for the home to activities for you to enjoy on your honeymoon or even donations to charity.
Head over to our community’s featured collections for more inspiration.
Add a cash fund
With a Moonsift wedding registry, you’ll have the option to add a cash fund.
This is a great way to get help towards bigger-ticket items without your loved ones breaking the bank.
Add things you wouldn’t buy yourself
It can be tempting to fill your wedding registry with gifts that you need. But make sure to add some items that you really want and wouldn’t buy for yourself too.
After all, your wedding is a rare opportunity to treat yourself!
Add enough items
When working out how many gifts to add to your registry, a good rule of thumb is to double the number of guests.
So, if you’re inviting 80 guests to your wedding, you’ll want to include around 160 items.
Narrow it down to the gifts you actually want
Assuming you’ve added enough gifts to your registry, make sure to narrow it down to only the items you actually want.
That way, you won’t overwhelm your guests with choice – and you’ll have a better chance of receiving your favorite items!
Be mindful of your audience
Keep in mind who’ll be buying for you and don’t add items that might make them (or you!) feel uncomfortable.
For instance, if your grandma and grandpa are attending the wedding, you might want to think twice before adding your favorite lingerie!
Double (and triple!) check it
Before you send your wedding registry to your family and friends, take time to check it over.
That way, you can make sure that nothing has accidentally made its way on – and spot if there are any glaring omissions.
Treat it as a work in progress
Don’t feel the need to completely finish your wedding registry before you publish it.
Rather, know that you can carry on adding items for as long as you wish to. If you forget to add something at first, it’s not the end of the world!
Send it out early
Last but not least, make sure to share your wedding registry well ahead of the big day.
That way, you’ll give guests plenty of time to get your gift sorted – and you’ll catch them before they go rogue and get your gift elsewhere!
Create a wedding registry on Moonsift
Ready to get started?
Moonsift has everything you need from a wedding registry – and more!
Free
Easy to use
Lets you add items from any store in the world
Slick and clean look
Available on mobile and desktop
Share with one simple link
Add cash funds
Reveal who’s bought what when you choose
So, what are you waiting for?
Create your wedding registry on Moonsift today.
Things people also ask about making a wedding registry
Can I make my own wedding registry?
Yes, you can make your own wedding registry. Just create an account with a wedding registry provider, give your registry a name and start adding items. Creating a wedding registry with Moonsift is free!
What is not appropriate to put on a wedding registry?
There are no set rules when it comes to what is appropriate to put on a wedding registry. However, as a general guide, it’s best to avoid items that are too personal or can’t be shared – such as clothing, lingerie or fragrances.
Plus, consider steering clear of items that are too expensive – instead, you could add a cash fund so that guests can contribute towards bigger purchases without breaking the bank.
How to create a wedding registry list?
Creating a wedding registry list is quick and easy. Here’s how it works with Moonsift.
Download the app on your smartphone or add Moonsift to your browser on desktop
Browse and shop as normal
Save items you like with one click
Share your registry with friends and family
