3.) You should have the option of registering for cash gifts

Asking for money instead of wedding gifts is becoming increasingly popular. Especially with the extortionate cost of houses these days! However, although this trend's become more and more acceptable, some couples still feel a little weird about asking for cash. So, it's important you feel comfortable with how you make this request. One of the most tasteful ways of handling this delicate situation is to find a wedding registry service that allows you to register for a gift fund. By gift fund, we mean a platform that informs your wedding guests of where their money's going. This is the ideal solution if you're looking to fund a larger project. For example, your dream honeymoon, a deposit on a new house, setting up a nursery, etc. Your wedding guests will love helping you and your partner take your first steps together! People like to feel involved, so try to keep the lines of communication open when you're asking for money.

4.) You'll want fabulous gift inspiration

It's handy if your wedding registry service provides a few gift ideas. Often brides suffer from writer's block when they attempt to write their wedding registries. It's like when someone asks what you want for Christmas, and you've been thinking of stuff all year, and then when it comes to the main event, your mind goes blank! So, a platform that aims to fuel you with practical advice and inspiration, whether that be in the form of inspiration collages or blog posts is a winner! Plus, some software allows you to see what other brides-to-be are adding to their gift lists in real-time. This kind of feature is perfect for fuelling you with inspo, if you get a little stuck!

5.) Find a registry that offers you perks

It goes without saying that a high-quality wedding registry service should have a special relationship with their retail partners. This means you should feel the benefit of their widespread network in the form of discounts and other such rewards! Our best advice to you is to shop around and see what deals are available to you.

6.) It's imperative your registry is accessible to  your guests

For the sake of an easy life, it's essential you're able to communicate to your wedding guests where they can find your registry. You could have the best wedding registry service in the world, but if it's not readily accessible to your friends and family you may as well not have one! So, here are a couple of features we feel a wedding registry service should offer:

• They should offer to send beautiful eCards to all of your wedding guests. These cards should announce the full details of your registry and explain to them how to use it (so that you don't have to).
• You should have a dedicated URL to put in your wedding invitations and post on your wedding website. Ideally, you should be able to customize your registry’s URL, so that it's personal to you and your partner and easy for both you and your guests to remember

7.) Practicality and Ease should be a priority

You need a wedding registry service that's easy to use (for both you, your partner, and your wedding guests). These days some platforms allow you to scan products with your smartphone when you're out. By using their designated app, you can simply add bits and bobs to your gift list while doing your everyday errands. This same technology ensures you save your guests money. When you scan different products, you can compare the prices, and research the best deals on the stuff you want. Additionally, you should use a platform that allows you to edit gift details when you're on the go, and mark them as vacant or purchased with ease. This makes things much easier for you to manage!

8.) You shouldn't be limited to stores with websites

By this, we mean that you shouldn't have to only register with shops that have an online presence. There are loads of beautiful brick-and-mortar stores and boutiques that are yet to launch websites. There's software out there that'll allow you to take a photo of the product you want and then upload it to their app. Then you can add any relevant details including where to buy it and the cost- so that your wedding guests know how to get their hands on these products.

Wedding Registry Gift Inspo That Goes the Distance

1. A Sofa

If you've ever gone furniture shopping, then you'll know how expensive sofas are. Couches are the hub of your living room, so they're worth spending cash on. You're likely to stick with the same one for years to come, usually decades. So it's the perfect gift for your wedding guests to pool together and buy for you and your partner.

2. A Coffee Table 

Any lounge needs a fabulous looking coffee table to bring the room together. If this is something, you want we recommend searching for a table that'll stand the test of time. You want something that's both stylish and functional. This ensures you'll make the most of this gift for years to come!

3. A Bar Cart

A bar cart's fabulous if you're into making cocktails, or if you entertain a lot. It's both a fun and practical gift that you'll use again and again. It's an excellent way of storing your expensive liquors and glasses that you only use on special occasions. Plus, a beautifully designed cart makes for a perfect statement piece!

4. Baking Equipment 

Unless you're an avid baker, it's unlikely that you'll splurge on top-notch baking accessories, ordinarily. However, it's traditional for any kitchen to have a few baking essentials. For example, a mixer is a classic item to put on your wedding registry. Not only is it handy for baking it's also useful for day to day cooking (if you get the right attachments).

5. Blender

Blender's are something you don't realize how handy they are until you have one. The better quality ones aren't just great for juicing they're also ideal for creating soups and sauces, etc. You'll be amazed at how often you'll use this gadget as the years go by.

6. Dinnerware

Like we've previously said, wedding guests love to buy newlyweds gifts they'll genuinely use. Arguably, there isn't a more practical present than a superb everyday dinner service. If you're on the hunt for a mid-week dinner set, then we suggest opting for a design crafted from either stoneware or earthenware. However, if you're looking to splurge on something for special occasions, then porcelain or bone china may be more appropriate. Who knows, maybe this dinner service will become a family heirloom your children will pass it down for generations to come?- That would be sweet!

7. A Decent Coffee Maker

Most of us can't afford to continually run down to the local coffee shop to grab a $5 americano. So, if you love coffee now's your chance to get your dream coffee machine! You'll be amazed at the quality you'll be able to brew at home, for half the price (once you've got all the gear). It's one of those presents that strikes a fabulous balance between luxury and practicality. Needless to say, you'll need to do your homework as to which brands provide the most durable products. However, rest assured we're sure you'll find something great!

8. Cooking Equipment

Whether you consider yourself a chef or just enjoy pottering around the kitchen- you'll always need something to cook with. When it comes to pots and pans, I'm sure we've all experienced the trials of using cheap cooking equipment. By this we mean, kitchenware that just doesn't go the distance. After a couple of uses, you're forced to throw them away because of all on the congealed burnt bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.- gross! So, do yourselves a favor and use this as an opportunity to ask for cookware that'll last you a few years. Pots and pans with a non-stick coating are a great place to start. Please note just like the coffee machine, we recommend you do your research. It's important to get the right set to suit the needs of both you and your partner.

9. Fun Yet Functional Gift Ideas

Now, you may consider a few of these suggestions frivolous. However, just like the blender, once you have one, you won't be able to get enough of them!

• An Ice Cream Maker— There's nothing better than homemade ice cream. When you have on of these machines, you'll be able to make your favorite flavored iced treats. Ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato, sorbet- the lot!
• A Fondue Set— Really and truly there's no explanation needed. Gooey cheese, or a hot chocolate treat, yes please!
• Waffle Iron— This makes for the perfect addition to a lazy Sunday morning. A sweet breakfast handmade by either you or your partner is a great way to start the day together!