I spend a lot of mornings reading wedding forums, baby boards, and the weird little fights people have about registries. Who still sends a card. Whether cash counts. Whether you can skip opening gifts at the shower. Most of the advice online is either stiff or useless. I try to land somewhere in the middle.
I will tell you when I think a trend is silly. Matching robes for every bridesmaid? Cute in photos. Mostly landfill after. Early registry shipments are a gift, not a burden, but they do mess with your thank-you timing. Cash is still a gift. Write like a person, not a receipt.
I work with WrapSheet, the iOS app for snapping the gift pile, tracking who gave what, and getting the notes done. I mention it when it actually helps the story. If it doesn't, I leave it out.
If something here feels wrong for your family or your crowd, trust your people. Etiquette is a guide, not a court.
Questions or corrections: tess@wrapsheet.site.