I want to become a society lady Rockin' a new rock?!

You heard us right. Goddess. Today, we’re talking registries, and one thing we’ve learned is that the task of picking out goods for your new abode can be a tad overwhelming. But thanks to our friends over a Zola, we’re going to give you 4 tips for succeeding at this whole registry business. Are you ready? Get your notepad!

Step one: Make your registry personal.

Max and Emma Registry

Not only does your registry reflect your personal sense of style, but it is also a reflection of the two of you! Love cooking? Can’t wait to host friends? Prefer to travel instead? Your registry is a great way to tell a part of your story, so be sure to add fun notes, unique collections, personal pictures and a custom URL. Is it no surprise to you that Zola makes all this easy? And cute?

Step two: Register for what you really want.

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Don’t feel forced into the standard mixer routine–although no judgement–that’s a killer gift and we are obsessing over this copper one:

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Feel the freedom to explore all the other fun options you can add in too. What about a mixology class or an outdoor hike? Do you have your eye on a super pricey couch or heirloom china? Consider group gifting to make those pricey options a possibility. Honeymoon and cash funds (for that down payment maybe?) are always super great additions that allow for plenty of freedom! PLUS, with Zola, those handmade unique one-of-a-kind items from local stores or niche sites can easily be added to your registry with the “Add to Zola” Button!

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Step three: Get inspiration and help when you need it.

Collection - 30 Most Popular Gifts
Editorial - Credit to Caroline Tran

(Image credit: Caroline Tran)

We know you love all the pretty things, but what do you actually NEED for your new married life? It’s easy to get distracted by All. The. Cocktail. Glassware. Do you really need a glass set just for serving mojitos? Okay, maybe, but the point is that you might be forgetting some of the essentials. So, enter the Zola Buying Guide, which breaks down what you need from each category. They’ll help you even further with their Starter Collections which are there to help kick start your inspiration. We love that you can browse curated collections based on the essentials, your style, or interests. Plus, Zola’s Registry Concierge is always there to help you + your guests, and will even import your other registries–because we know that for those of you that have already registered, you’re feeling a little registry envy.

Editorial - Credit to Ira Lippke
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Step four: Make it easy on yourself and let technology do the hard work and heavy-lifting.

iPhone App

For most of us busy gals, technology is a huge help in keeping us organized and sane. Where would life be without our smart phones? Seriously. So of course, Zola has an easy to use iPhone App, so you can register for anything using on-the-go with features like a barcode scanner, mobile alerts, and Registry Planner. With the Gift Tracker you’ll know who gave you what, which is a HUGE a lifesaver when it’s time for thank you’s. With their Virtual Exchange it is easy to swap your gifts for ones you want before they are sent! And while we’re on the subject of shipping, if your living room is piled high with DIY projects for the wedding, or if you’re planning on moving right after the big day, you can opt for the Send It Later feature, which allows YOU to decide exactly when you want your gifts shipped.

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(Image credit: Ira Lippke)

Le sigh. All so easy, right? We heart Zola! And guess what? Grey Likes Weddings readers will receive $25 to spend on Zola when they set up their wedding registry on Zola. New registries must be started (but not necessarily published) between 2/24/15 – 5/24/15. Credits will be placed into the couple’s Zola account 4 weeks after a couple’s registry is published live.

*Zola is a sponsor of Grey Likes, but seriously, we love them! All opinions are bloggers’ own.