Form the Registry

• 1). Identify a store or a couple of stores with which to register. Ask about return policies, delivery policies and assembly of large items. Try and choose a store that has an online presence or is available nationwide. This ensures that well-wishers from all locations can purchase and ship you a gift, regardless of their locations.
  
  
• 2). Place the bulk of your registry at one store. This will help prevent confusion and duplicate gifts. It is fine to have several luxury items at another store, but try and keep all the basics at one store. Your family will thank you.
  
  
• 3). Make a list of items you want before you go to the store. Most stores will give you a price gun and encourage you to scan anything that catches your eye. This can be dangerous. The more extra items you put on your list the more you risk not getting the things you really need. Look at your home and think about how much space you have. Look at your budget and think about what items you can't afford to buy on your own.
  
  
• 4). Vary the price range of items on your registry. If you only have items that are in the $100 range, you may deter many potential gift givers who want to purchase smaller gifts. Include items that are less expensive along with the large items. This way there is an option for everyone.
  
  

Spread the Word

• 1). Tell your family and baby shower organizer where you have registered. It is never appropriate to ask for gifts directly, but it is common for people to ask family members of expectant mothers where they should go to purchase gifts. The host of your baby shower may also want to include this information when telling people about the shower.
  
  
• 2). Ask your retailer about spread-the-word services. Many registries have announcement cards or email programs that help you let friends and co-workers know about your new registry. These services are often free of charge. Be tactful and use this service for close friends and relatives. Do not send an email blast to your entire address book without first screening it.
  
  
• 3). Don't be shy. If friends ask where you have registered let them know. If someone starts a conversation about your future plans for the baby, you can mention that you registered at retailers X, Y and Z. Try and limit this activity to one mention per person. Remember that many people want to buy you gifts and having this information helps them, but being overly aggressive can be interpreted as greediness.
  
  
• 4). Use word-of-mouth advertising. If you have a few particularly chatty friends ask them to help you spread the word to others. Tell them that you do not want to solicit gifts, but would like people seeking to purchase gifts to know where you have registered. Often, this is the most effective means of communication as word will spread from one friend to another.