Everything but the kitchen sink... or maybe that too

Once upon a time, long ago, brides to be would march to the local jeweler or department store and register for fine china, sterling silver and perhaps even crystal with which to begin married life.

Now, nearly anything goes and nearly every retail store has a gift registry, often computerized. Major department stores and discount department outlets are popular with modern brides who register for small kitchen appliances, everyday dinnerware and flatware, linens and towels.

"We registered at Target and Wal-Mart, but we registered for weird stuff," said Tyler Tankersley, who married Jessica Royer in Jackson this past June.

Reflecting their interest in dinosaurs and their sense of whimsy, the couple registered for, and received, dinosaur toys, laser tag items, Nerf games and camping equipment.

According to Bankrate.com, some of the more unconventional wedding gift registries include:

• Financial registries, such as gift certificates, money for a honeymoon or down payment on a house, or cash or securities. Emily Post and Amy Vanderbilt would not approve, but it is becoming commonplace, the website says.
• Charities. Some couples, especially in second marriages or older couples who have lived singly and outfitted their own homes, feel they don't need any more gifts. Instead they ask that well-wishers donate to a specific charity in their honor.
• Linens. Bed sheets are becoming more than just a set of percale sheets and pillow cases. Some couples prefer a higher thread count for extra luxury, flannel for winter warmth, or specific colors.
• Sporting goods. They met on a ski slope, and plan to honeymoon there. They might register for ski equipment and parkas. Others might register for mountain bikes, golf clubs or tennis rackets.
• More popular locally are registries for home decor and household organizers that can be found at bed and bath stores or home improvement outlets. Appliances and kitchen equipment, or barbecue grills, are popular as well.

This story first appeared in the Fall/Winter 2008 issue of I DO, Southeast Missouri's bridal magazine with tips and the latest news on dresses, hair, food and love. Available for free subscription at shethemagazine.com.