My fiance and I went back and forth about whether or not to have a registry- we've lived together for a few years now, and have everything we need (and most of what we want) and limited storage space. We're both fresh out of school and could use money more than anything. I consulted a couple friends who all stressed that I needed a registry a) because I was going to have a shower, and how could I have a shower and no registry? and b) because not all guests like to give money at weddings, so I needed to offer them an alternative option.
We ended up registering for some affordably-priced china, as no one in my family has a good set, and a series of other household items. I actually got pretty excited about the whole process, and couldn't wait to see what our guests would choose!
My bridal shower was this past weekend and most of what I received was lingerie (!) and housewares. The odd thing?? It was a bunch of stuff I didn't register for. Very random, some really weird stuff.
First off, one guest went to Crate and Barrel and added things to my registry. DID NOT know people could do that! (lol) So my registry is now longer than when I last left it, and items I did not ask for (but am getting anyways) have a Wants: 0 Has: 1 next to them. And don't get me wrong- I'm a complete fan of off the registry shopping, but only if I know the person/couple very well, if not I tend to stick to the list.
Of the random stuff I received, people who know me well got me stuff I LOVE, but the rest? Not so much. It's exaclty what I didn't want to have happen...people graciously went out and bought us things we dont need or like, and that don't go with anything else we own.
Now I'm never one to turn down a gift. They were all very generous, and I was so pleased to see everyone turn up to celebrate my fiance and I...but the whole point of my long-winded story is....does this happen often? If so, what's the point of having a registry? To end up with half a set of China and a bunch of other things you will one day sell at an estate sale??
Is this off-the-registry phenomena more common with bridal shower gifts than with wedding gifts? What were your experiences?