Register early.

Congratulations -- you’re engaged! Couples often think there’s no need to register until the bridal shower. However, with so many pre-wedding events these days, it’s better to have a few options already selected for friends and family to choose from in advance. If someone is throwing you an engagement party, guests will appreciate being able to select a gift from your registry list.

If you’re not ready to create a full registry, you can always start one early with just a few items.

Create multiple registries.

Not only is it acceptable to have multiple registries, it is very important that you do so to make it convenient for guests to buy a gift. With honeymoon, charity and lifestyle registries such a huge trend right now, you should also keep in mind that you should register at a traditional retailer, too. After all, great grandma might not feel comfortable buying you a scuba diving lesson as a wedding gift. Additionally, registering at multiple retailers gives guests who must shop in person access to at least one of your options. If one retailer isn’t available near them, they can visit one of the others you’ve registered at.

Consider your short and long-term needs.

When preparing a wish list for your wedding registry, there are many important things to consider. One key thing to keep in mind is to not register for the future, but to register for today. Many brides may have a vision of what they think they’ll want 10 years down the road, but it’s important to register for items that will actually be used in the present since tastes may change as the years go by. Additionally, it’s important to register for gifts that will cover all seasons of the year. It’s all too easy to stock up on barbeque accessories and lemonade pitchers if you’re registering in the summer, so it’s important to remind yourself to think ahead to the cooler months too.

Create a Wedding Website.

Letting guests know where you’re registered can be a touchy subject. After all, it’s kind of like saying, “Here’s my favorite store for you to buy me a wedding gift.” One easy way to skirt this potentially sticky etiquette scenario is to create a Wedding Website. Not only will you be able to discreetly list all of the stores that you’re registered at, but you’ll also be able to communicate all your wedding details so guests don’t call you on the day of your wedding to ask for directions.

Update and manage your registries.

Most couples think that once they’ve created their registry, they can just sit back and watch the gifts pour in. However, as the wedding gets closer, it’s important to make sure that there are always enough items -- and in different price ranges -- available on your registry. In fact, one of the biggest wedding-guest complaints is accessing a registry that is empty or only has a few items remaining on it. Managing your registries will allow guests to find an option they can afford or that best reflects their relationship with you.

For more registry tips and advice, visit www.weddingchannel.com.