Answers to Your Registry Concerns

Frequently asked questions about wedding registries, answered by wedding registry experts at JCPenney…

A: While many couples register anywhere from 10 months to 1 year from their wedding date, most register 6 months in advance. There’s a nice timeframe balance: Take advantage of your wedding planning tools and manage your registries in ample time before the event, without feeling pressured as your big day approaches!

Q: Where do we begin?
A: You’ll probably be merging two households into one home. Take inventory and decide what should stay and what can go. Don’t feel obligated to keep something “just because.” It’s time to start your new life together. Pick out the things you can both live with and enjoy for years to come. 

Q: What do we register for?
A: The key to a gracious registry is to list a variety of gifts at various price ranges. Try to keep most items relatively affordable, but don’t shy away from registering for a few pricier items. It’s OK to add in your dream mixer, bedroom furniture or even a sofa. Higher-priced items make great group gifts, and gift cards can be put toward their purchase.  

Q: Should we register online or in-store?
A: Our suggestion? Try both! The convenience of online registering can’t be beat: simply log in to jcp.com/registry to add items and access wedding planning tools, special offers, free gifts, etc. Still, there’s nothing like adding items to your list in-store. Touch the plush towels, feel the flatware in your hand, even sit in that cushy arm chair — it’s an experience unlike any other, and it’s waiting for you at one of our many locations.

Q: How many items should we register for?  
A: A good rule of thumb is two items per invitation. Be sure to list a variety of gifts, mostly in price ranges appropriate for your guests’ budgets.

Q: Should we register for gift cards?
A: Absolutely! Not only do gift cards work for group gifts or big-ticket items, but for those guests who aren’t the shopping type or don’t have the time to actually purchase an item. Helpful tip: register for a range of gift card denominations, from $20 to $200.  

Q: Is it tacky to include announcement cards in our shower invitations?
A: Of course not — that’s what they’re used for! Guests usually want to know where a couple is registered so they can get exactly what is needed (or wanted). By the way, JCPenney Wedding Registry offers free announcement cards in packs of 25 and 50. Order as many as you need!

Q: We’re a little overwhelmed. Where do we go?
A: Once you register, there’s lots of helpful info on your “manage registry” page. If you would prefer to hear a kind voice, our Registry Consultants are ready to help, 7 days a week, 8 am to Midnight, EST at 1-800-JCP-GIFT (527-4438).

Q: What do we do after we register?
A: Be sure to regularly check and update your gift list. It’s important to give your guests multiple items to choose from, so don’t be afraid to add more of what you need (or want). Discover something on your list is discontinued? Don’t worry. Our selection is enormous, and we get new styles every day. Finding a replacement is easy!

Q: We’re married! Now what?
A: Continue to keep JCPenney in the loop after the “I dos” are done. Be sure to update your registry information with your new name and address to receive valuable registry information, discounts and coupons in the months after your wedding.

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