Creating your registry is one part of your wedding planning that creates a lot of joy without a lot of stress. Really, huge bath towels, snuggly sheets and amazing cooking sets will never go out of style, but today’s couples are more adventurous and going beyond the registry basics.

More and more couples are already living together before the wedding, which makes creating your registry list a little more challenging. However, this is a great opportunity to create a blended style for the two of you that both of you can enjoy. Take advantage of department stores that offer more than home goods - things like furniture and camping gear. Remember that you don’t have to register at just one store.

Couples these days are also taking advantage of another trend: registering for your honeymoon. Instead of gifts, your guests help contribute to your honeymoon to take the financial burden off you. Keep in mind that if your wedding crowd is more traditional, you will also want to register at a retailer for them.

Wherever and whatever you choose for your registry keep a few things in mind:

• mix up your items for a large variety, both in taste and price
• make sure you are comfortable with the shipping/return policies
• size up your space - don’t go overboard
• be careful of seasonal items - don’t do your registry too early

Enjoy the moments!