Why A Wedding Registry Is A Good Idea
Deconstructing perfect little wedding presents and the newest trend to hit Indian shores—registries.
The art of showering newlyweds with gifts on their wedding is something that has been prevalent for as long as we can remember. Earlier (when things were simpler), one would bestow them with things they thought were essential to begin a new journey together. Today however, times are changing and the couple is calling the shots. They decide what they need and gifting is less likely to be based on assumption. So the big question is, what do you present the couple-in-love with? Is a car too much or is silverware too little? This is where registries come in.
For those who are still new to the idea, it is an online portal created by the couple themselves where they create a wish list of everything they desire. Mostly an international concept and still at a very nascent stage in India, registries are quickly becoming popular. In a country where ten million large-scale weddings take place in a year, registries make absolute sense as opposed to receiving a tower of gifts and hand-me-downs a couple could do without. The first such registry that caught our eye was weddingwishlist.com. What started as an idea after having a frustrated conversation with a friend, quickly turned into the first portal of its kind (in the country) after founder Kanika Subbiah sensed the gap in the market. What’s great is that it is easy to use and lets you create a wishlist of gifts that range from basic appliances, fancy fashion pieces, trendy décor, stunning silverware, exclusive experiences, and much more! The couple also get a personlised website where they can upload their story, share pictures et cetera. “Every newlywed needs certain things to start a new life, whether it is art, furniture, appliances, home furnishings, or even tickets for the honeymoon. It therefore makes sense for guests to give couples the things they need. The West has recognised that a registry is as critical to wedding planning as the venue. In India however, we are a little hypocritical about it, often oscillating between requests such as ‘no gifts please’, ‘cash only’, or telling close ones what is needed,” says Subbiah.
Another portal that has gained attention is wishtry.in. Based along similar lines, this portal has a lot to offer as well. What makes them unique is that they aren’t limited to just weddings, you can create a registry here for almost any occasion you are celebrating.
We are in love with this new wave and digital movement that is creating happy memories as we type this. For those still in a dilemma and know for a fact that the next wedding you’re attending does not have a registry, you could always indulge in something special for the couple's home—a fail-safe idea.