Non-traditional registry? Or how to politely say no gifts needed?

I think word of mouth would be the way to go if you're going to bring it up at all. WW generally agrees that saying "please no gifts" is rude because it implies that a gift was expected in the first place. Other than that, I think you'll just have to let your guests decide if they want to bring any gifts or cash and graciously thank those who decide to do so.

Set up a really small registry with small stuff that will be easy to move. Like pictures or a blender. People want to gift for a wedding. Unfortunately there's no way around it. You'll get the people that are offended that you don't want anything in a weird way.

I'd say create a registry with some basics: sheets, towels, quality pots/pans...stuff you'll eventually need. You can say no gifts, but if they want to give, at least it will be things you can use!!

We didn't have a registry and received a lot nice things that we loved, but in retrospect I wish I'd registered.

Just don't do a honeymoon reg or a silly poem and you're good.

If people ask you can say somethings like "that's so kind of you, but your presence is our gift!", but if they insist honestly it's probably best to graciously accept. A lot of people love giving gifts to their loved ones!

I really don't want to say "please no gift" and agree it sounds rude. But we might be moving to Asia or Europe after wedding so gifts will be "wasted". Trying to figure out a way to make it work.

I understand what you are saying. We are having a DW wedding so I dont want my guest to give me any sort of gift either, since i know it will cost enough just to travel. No one has really asked what we want or anything like that but I dont plan on setting up any sort of registry. And if they ask I will simple tell them that their presence is gift enough. Its up to them if they choose to bring you a gift or money at that point IMO. There's not really anything you can do but if they do choose to give you a gift or any kind just express your gratitude in your thank you card to them.

My cousin asked for small tokens or written notes from her guests about their hopes, wishes and advice to the newlyweds. It was really sweet and everyone enjoyed thinking of things.

OPs Chinese (I believe?) culture is very traditional in that sense of gift giving. Maybe have some red envelopes at your wedding set aside for them?

If your guests want to give you gifts, accept them graciously and move on. Write a nice thank you note. Some people will want to give you gifts and no amount of "please don't" will stop them.

Beatrice- yes, Chinese. I guess you guys are right. I probably will still get gifts / cash but I will make sure if someone brings it up I will thank them and say not needed.

That's hard. I'm also Asian, and several family members try to one up each other by bragging about how much money they're giving the couple, and they get offended even if you politely decline.