With that said, here's real deal on setting up your wedding registry and getting word out without offending your guests. Remember that retailers can be an enormous help to both you and your guests. At same time, you can’t take everything they say at face value.

Q: Where should I register?

A: Chances are, if you're getting married in your own town, you already know where "everyone goes" to set up and shop from a registry. If not, and guests are flying in from far away, pick from some bride-tested standbys likely to be present almost anywhere. Macy’s has a great reputation for registries, as does Williams-Sonoma, Bed Bath & Beyond and other retailers.

Before you choose your stores, be sure to stop by a wedding forum and get feedback from brides who have been there, done that. Store policies vary quite dramatically, ranging from easy-does-it (who’ll give you cash back for returns off registry, no questions asked) to extremely restrictive (who’ll only let you exchange for another item *in that department*, requires a receipt for each item, and so on). You'll want to know about these policies and store's overall reputation for bridal friendliness before you go in, or returns and exchanges could become a big hassle.

Q: I have a wide range of interests. How many stores should I register at?

A: Two to three stores is fairly typical. They don't have to be typical stores, though. If you're a wine drinker, and live in a state where it's legal to ship wine, set up a registry at one of great online wine merchants.

Q: When should I register?

A: Although close family members may pressure you to start earlier, it's helpful to wait three to six months before wedding. Not only are vast majority of gifts bought within a day or so of shower or ceremony itself, stores turn over merchandise so rapidly that any gifts you select earlier may be discontinued.

Q: What if I already have all kitchen appliances and throw pillows I need?