Do I have to do a wedding registry?

No, you do not have to have a registry.

The pros of a registry would be getting any essentials you're lacking or upgrading the essentials you already do have.

The only con I can think of that's related to a registry would be having a cash fund (GoFundMe, linking your PayPal account, etc.) or having a honeymoon fund. Those are definitely big no-no's.

The first because it's a wedding, cash is a given in terms of gifts you'll receive; therefore, you don't need to tell people how to give you said cash.

Honeymoon funds because you're asking people to fund a luxury for you, when they've spent money to attend, put money in your card, and may not be able to afford a vacation themselves. Also, most honeymoon fund sites take a percentage of the money your guests gift you, so you're not getting the full amount they planned on gifting you anyways.

I think the general consensus here is if you don't want to do a registry, either forego one and spread the word via word of mouth when people inquire about it or doing a super small one of just upgrades or additional essentials you may need.

It's definitely not seen as demanding certain gifts. People will gift you what they want to gift you, and if they don't see something on your registry they want to give you? Again, they'll probably just gift you cash.

I didn't do registry and I regret it. People gifted cash, which is great and what I was hoping for, but when the question came up, "where are you registered at? " it was awkward saying, "nowhere". So do a small one for those who ask....

If you have a shower, you should have a registry. I got gifts I didn't register for but they were thoughtful and heartfelt, and I certainly wasn't mad about getting them! You certainly aren't demanding anything. You're correct, a registry is a list of ideas. FH's mom used it for Christmas for us. My one bestie found a better deal on an item at a different store than the registry was at so purchased it there. It's not the be all end all.

It was nice to upgrade. But they aren't necessary.

Thanks ladies!!!!

Registries are widely accepted, so I think your FH concern is unfounded. Does your FH have firsthand knowledge that his family is against registries?

Registries are not required, but they are very helpful for both the couple and guests. Most guests genuinely want to give you a good gift that you will use and enjoy. Without a registry it can be difficult to figure out what the couple wants, even if you know them well. I have no idea which of my friends already have a blender or a food processor lol.

FH's family is totally okay with registries, it's just his way of thinking he's kinda weird sometimes about spending money or having others spend money on him. He's a giver not a receiver, as am I but I'm looking at this as I wishlist/idea list my MOH says absolutely do one because she's throwing me a shower.