If a baby gift registry really helps to new parents?

Question

If yes, how?

Answer 1

It helps in the sense that they can stay organized with what they need and maybe make it clear to people that there are certain things that they don't want or don't want too many of. Then they are not going back and forth exchanging things or sitting with 3 carseats when they really needed a stroller and a swing.

Answer 2

it was helpful for me in a few different ways.

1) I know my baby shower is coming up - the reason why I know this is because 90% of my registry has been purchased already.  I've never gone to a baby (or bridal shower for that matter) and not gotten my gifts off the registries...nor do I really know anyone that ignores the registry...it's too bad that so many people are experiencing that....i mean, isn't that what it's for?

2) it does keep me organized on things I want or need.  I've gone back to my registry a few times just to add things I forgot or if someone mentions a "must have" product, I'll go back to my registry and see if I remembered to put it on there.  Also, if I found a good deal somewhere else or online, i'll buy it and then take it off my registry...so it's a handy check list.

3) most places offer some type of incentive for registering at their store...either they start sending you coupons in the mail or at the end, you get a special discount on all things that weren't bought.

It's free, so even if some of your family and friends decided to not buy you things you hand picked, at least you can buy things for yourself at a discount.

Answer 3

A lot of people ignore those registries, but it's still good to have one in case someone doesn't. Even if they don't get EXACTLY what you want, you can get store credit to go back and get what you want. PLUS Babies R Us and Target send you a coupon for 10% off whatever wasn't purchased. I loaded up the list and took that coupon in and saved $25!!!

Answer 4

In my experience the registries are a waste of time and effort. I would say list maybe like 10 of the things you REALLY need or want on your invites and then they have it in front of them so they don't have to go looking for that stuff. My friend did this and it worked out really great for her. but she did both. And then if she got extras she took them to the place she registered and exchanged them.

She got a lot of stuff at her baby shower and only had to exchange a few things. So you can do both things in you want. It just might work and get you the things you need or don't need and can exchange.