First comes love ... then comes the registry

The first fight for the newly engaged just may involve wedding registries.

Disagreements over place mats, china and kitchen appliances might seem silly, but registries are complicated and time-consuming.

Couples should view registering as a chance to stock up on items they won't splurge on for themselves, like china, a bar set or a top-of-the-line food processor.

Wedding experts say registering soon after the engagement is best, as guests may want to buy gifts for the engagement and shower.

But don't rush the process.

"Go slow, and figure out things you really love and need," said Kathleen Murray, senior editor at the wedding Web site The Knot (www.theknot.com).

Because thoughts on how to approach registries vary widely, we culled the opinions of several wedding experts to offer a practical guideline for getting registries right.

Our experts include Murray; Seattle-based event planner Stephanie Solomon; Seattle-based event planner Keri Cooper; www.weddingchannel.com; and Kris Melcher, author of "Chick Living!" and contributor to Modern Bride.

Take an inventory

The first step is to assess what you already own. Couples should think about which items they want to upgrade and which still work. Discuss which colors and patterns you want for linens, place mats and dish patterns to make sure your styles mesh.

Other decisions include whether you want fine china, need wine glasses or should upgrade your bedding. Think about how much space you have before you register for large items, like a standing mixer.

"It's important for couples to register for things that they really want," Murray said. "We always say, 'Think in the now.' "

This is also a good time to clean out your home and get rid of items you never use.

"It's a great time to purge," Solomon said.

Shopping tips

First, visit your chosen stores without adding anything to the registry.

Ask store employees exactly how guests access the registry — and also ask whether they can buy over the phone and online.

Also ask about shipping policies, and find out how long the store will keep your registry online after the wedding.

Some stores let couples buy the remaining items in their registries at a discount after the wedding.

Registering tips

Pick out three or four stores, and make sure to register with at least one national chain so people who live elsewhere can buy off the registry.

Many local stores also have registries so you can pick out gifts from your favorite home décor store.

Register for gifts with a variety of price levels. Pick out items under $25, under $50, under $75 and under $100 to accommodate guests' budgets. Some will want to buy several small items and combine them, while others will want to buy one big present.

Don't forget to ask how long the store carries some seasonal items, since they are rotated.

If you really love a seasonal piece, add it right before the wedding to ensure it is in stock.

Nicole Tsong: 206-464-2150 or ntsong@seattletimes.com