registry vs wedding gift

The registry is a list of items the couple would like that the guests can choose from. Whether it's for the bridal shower or the wedding is determined by which event you are buying it for.

You can purchase a registry gift for both bridal shower and wedding. I typically buy a registry gift for the shower and bring it to the shower and just give money and a card at the wedding. If you decide to buy a gift for the actual wedding I would recommend just sending it to the couple as they will have a lot to remember to bring home.

It varies by social circle. In many social circles, the registry gift is for the wedding. Some people will attend both shower and wedding. If you are part of the select group invited to the shower, you bring the registry gift to the shower because that is the purpose of the party. Some guests will buy two gifts: one for each event within their budget. Generally a gift is only mailed if you are unable to attend the wedding or you have to travel long distance via airplane to get there. Local guests bring physical registry gifts to the wedding.

To my etiquette's understanding, you gift to both. If you are going to spend money on them you mind as well get them something they specifically asked for, so go off of the registry

If you are invited to the shower, you definitely bring the shower gift there, as this is essentially a gift opening party, and then for the wedding you can either bring it to the wedding or send it to their home -- lately I've been seeing guests prefer to send wedding gifts directly to the couples' home because it's more convenient for both the gifter and the couple.