should I register?

Psych819

My FI and I recently got engaged. Our parents are throwing us a small backyard engagement party. Should I start a small registry to give my guests an option to by something versus giving a monetary gift? I would not announce it on the invites that I was registered. I don't expect gifts since we are only having the party to announce our engagement. However, if they choose to give should I give them an option by making a registry? 

Benny618

yes start your registry before the engagement party. 

egm900

We did, but in our group, everyone brings gifts to an e-party.  Our mothers knew where we were registered, a few people asked, everyone else found it on their own or brought a bottle of wine.  It's not necessary, but it was a good starting point for making our registry.

Psych819

Thank you ladies. I will take your advice and start a registry.

hoffse

Ditto PPs.  Just recognize you have over two years until your wedding.  Plenty of things will go out of stock.  I would start a small registry of basics - maybe wine glasses, toasting flutes, etc. and then stop there until you are about a year out.  FI and I registered 13-14 months out, and we've had almost nothing go out of stock, but then it's only been a few months since then.

MangoSong

My friends just had their e-party and even though it was a backyard BBQ, very casual, a good number of the guests gave gifts off their registry.