Applying for gift registries is simple and fun if couples have stores in mind and a good attitude. Many stores and websites have registries available for couples to browse and choose the perfect items for their new lives.

Once completed, guests have a clear view of what the couple would like as a gift. Additionally, guests are able to see what gifts have already been purchased so they are able to avoid adding to the couple’s collection of blenders.

Where to go

Abigail Cooper, of Des Moines, was married on Sept. 10 to Jacob Cooper. Prior to the wedding and the wedding shower, the couple set up registries at various places.

“We asked around to see where other people registered and which stores had good deals on household items,” Abigail Cooper explained.

The couple ended up choosing Target, Kohl’s, and Bed, Bath & Beyond. The couple also had a Pampered Chef party and registered on the company’s website.

Almost all major stores and retail websites have the option to set up a registry or wish list. Since guests can be from all over the country, it is a smart idea to find stores or websites that they will all have access to.

How to do it

While different places have different systems, typically the couple walks around in-store or browses online to “add” items to their registries.

“Target and Kohl’s in-store registries were so easy. All we did was fill out our information and then they gave us the gun to walk around with,” Cooper said. The “gun” allows the couple to scan barcodes which are then added to the list.

Some stores, such as Bed, Bath & Beyond, have the couple discuss visual ideas with a consultant and then help pick out items to fit that vision.

“We talked to [the consultant] for 15 minutes, and then they walked around with us while we picked out our dishes and silverware,” Cooper said.

What to pick

The Coopers decided to go to all of the stores together to pick out their registry items.

“We thought it would be something fun for the wedding we could do together,” Abigail Cooper explained.

Couples need to be prepared for a little disagreement about which items to select, but this is the perfect time to allow each person to pick out a few things they really like. The registry works as a suggestion list, and there is no commitment made by selecting items. Each person gets a few “individual picks” to avoid conflict and to have a little fun.

The results

The lists created by couples are usually accessible online or in-store. When a guest makes a purchase, it generates a message on the registry so no one else picks out the same gift. Not only is this an efficient way for guests to shop, but couples end up with gifts they hand-picked.

“I would say 85 percent of gift-givers used the registry. All of our shower gifts were from the registry, but most at the wedding was cash/gift cards,” Cooper explained.

While the one or two re-gifts are inevitable, registries provide a great way to spend time with your significant other and create a customized list of gifts that would be great for you.