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Blenders or Bahamas? A new perspective on the gift registry By Scott Wexler cooler than a toaster. ou will soon be a wide-eyed bride in a retail store, armed with a handheld scanner and a wild imagination. But before you attack those shelves of standard household products, you might want to reconsider your strategy when assembling your gift registry. Home Improvements. Tangible objects are great to have, but oftentimes you have greater needs as a new couple. Asking for a fraction of a home renovation project is a financially sound decision for forward thinkers. Y Traditional wedding wish lists include basic kitchen implements such as dishware, cooking utensils and small appliances. Although there's nothing wrong with beeping the barcodes on these practical items, there is a growing trend toward more dynamic gift registries. Consider the products you already possess or have access to; chances are you already have many of the necessary items in your apartment. If not, your parents might be able to hand down some suitable silverware. Instead of unwrapping the same pots and pans over and over again at your shower, check out some ideas that are - quite literally - out of the box: Travel. You're obviously not asking anyone to foot the entire bill for your honeymoon. But requesting marginal contributions toward your airfare or hotel is a practical idea that transcends the typical tableware. Plus, a flight to Hawaii is a lot Adventures. As a new couple, you'll likely still be in the mood to experience and explore after the honeymoon. Hint to your guests that you wouldn't mind concert tickets, a one-month fitness club membership or a couples spa day. Gift Cards. Generally a fail-proof present, gift cards offer ultimate flexibility. Including them on your registry will also ease the anxieties of budget-conscious guests. Going off the beaten path with your registry also encourages creativity among your guests. This is an opportunity to receive something original and heartfelt from those who know you best. When it's time to fill out your gift registry, remember these key tips: • Do Your Homework - Lock down all the details about your registry before you put it together, including the store's return policy and the procedure for your guests. points in order to accommodate everyone. Make sure the items are available, accessible and easy to find. • Follow Up - Stay on top of the process by reviewing and updating the registry regularly. Keep in touch with the professionals assisting you. Most of all, extend sincere thanks to everyone involved. • Take advantage of online resources such as WeddingRepublic.com for more creative gift registry ideas. These great gift ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. It's time to treat yourself before all the gift-giving begins, so join us for the 46th annual Wonderful World of Weddings, January 4 and 5, at Wisconsin State Fair Park for the ultimate wedding weekend! Learn more at WisconsinWeddingShow.com How to Prepare for the Wedding Show By Scott Wexler hen you're surrounded by booths, brochures and other brides-to-be, it's important to have a game plan at the Wonderful World of Weddings show. Take advantage of these simple tips to navigate the venue and get the most out of your experience. W • Map it Out. Study the map on the back cover of this tab, or print one out from WisconsinWeddingShow.com. Highlight the areas you want to explore, and plan the general route you'll take. Learning the layout of the show will help you focus on your priorities and save time. • Buy Advance Tickets. Visit the website to purchase tickets in advance, and save $1.50 per ticket. • Get Organized. Jot down notes before, during and after the show. If you get home with just a jumble of brochures and handouts, you're bound to overlook some interesting ideas. However, don't worry about bringing a bag to collect all your materials - one will be provided for you at the door. • Settle In. To get the most out of the show, make a day of it and gather as much information as you can. That means wearing comfortable clothes and shoes, staying hydrated and taking a few breaks. • Get Inspired. Make some time for one of the fantastic fashion shows that begin at 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity to rest your legs and check out some trendy new styles. • Relax. Whether you're just collecting ideas or you're ready to make some major decisions, remind yourself that you'll make it all come together. This is an exciting time before your big day, so take a moment to soak it all in. • Keep Your Guests in Mind - Cover all price Andrea & Gina 414-208-7586 or 262-388-3453 SkinnyWrapsofWi.com or HealthyandFitbyNature.com The UltimateWine Experience SPACE for up to 65 GUESTS ◆ Unlimited wine tasting $10 / person Rental fees may apply ◆ Bridal showers ◆ Wedding receptions ◆ Bachelorette parties Design your own label Complimentary daily tasting. Purchase by the glass, the bottle or the batch. Tue. - Fri. Noon to 8 pm; Sat. 11 am to 7 pm; Sun. Noon to 4 pm 262.784.WINE (9463) 17135 W. Bluemound Rd. Brookfield, WI 53005 235949008 www.water2wine.com January 2014 • Conley Media • Wonderful World of Weddings • 3

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