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Baby Registries - What are They?

When you are expecting, it is very likely that someone will give you a baby shower to give gifts to celebrate in the joy of your new baby. Since you don't want to seem pushy and specifically ask for certain gifts, but you very well may know what you want and need (after all, you are likely the only one who knows what you already have for baby), you can sign up for a baby registry.

Essentially, a baby registry allows a new or soon-to-be mom create a wish list at a certain store (both physical and online) that is accessible by anyone wishing to purchase something for the baby. Then, as each person buys something on your list, they can have it marked off. This way, the next person to purchase for you from that list can see what has already been bought for you.

Many stores have an online registry that is easily accessed through their website. It may be best to have at least one registry at a physical store, though, for those people on your guest list who do not have a computer.

If using an online baby registry: you will need to register at most sites in order to be able to create a registry or wish list (some websites will refer to them as wish lists). Registering usually doesn't take long, though, and is often just a few simple steps, such as registering on the site with a first name and email address, then creating a password to be able to return and view the account at a later time (and possible add to or take away from the list).

Then, you will shop through their catalogs and decide what you would like to have for baby. While each site will be different, most of them will have an icon near each item that says "add to wish list" or "add to registry." Once you click on this, it will add this item to your list. You can continue to do this until you have listed everything you need or would like to have for baby. If you can't find certain items, you can set up several registries containing certain types of items in each. If you do have several registries, it might be best to use one for toys, one for the basics (bottles, diapers, etc.) and one for other items. This way, if a person will be buying for you, but knows that they won't be purchasing a big ticket item such as a swing, they won't have to go through three or four registries to find something they can get for you.

If using a regular store baby registry: You will register, and then you will shop for items as you normally would. Some stores let you take a small scanner with you to be able to scan items you would like to have as you see them, while others may let it be like a regular shopping trip, only the items get scanned into your registry as opposed to being tallied up for purchase.

Whether you use an online registry or a baby registry at a brick-and-mortar store, most likely all the information the buyers will need is your name or whatever name you set the account up with. Some stores may also give a registry number, as well.

Then, when sending out invitations for your baby shower, it is good to list any stores that you are registered at. This is also where you would include any necessary information for them to be able to access your registry, such as what name it is in. It is also usually best to also include a note that while every gift will be appreciated, none are actually expected.

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