I am having a very intimate wedding (parents, grandparents, siblings) and 2 weeks later, we are throwing a big party. Not necessarily a reception (we won't be doing the traditional reception things such as dances, bouquet toss, etc.) We are doing the party because we both have VERY large families that would like to get together and celebrate with us because they love us. Both families completely understand not being invited to the ceremony, and I don't think anyone is offended. I am not allowing any pre-wedding parties because I do not feel like it is right to invite people to a gift-giving shower if they are not coming to the wedding.
I had made up my mind that I was not going to register because I didn't want people to think I was asking for gifts, since the ceremony is private. However, I have had a couple of people tell me that many will still want to get us gifts and I should do a small registry. I'm not sure how I feel about it. I am concerned that people will think I am expecting gifts, which I am not, considering the type of wedding I am having. What do you guys think? Registry or no?