Gift Registries... Do you use them? Do you like them?

I have used a gift registry before and it was with Amazon.Com when my friend and her husband were about to have their first child together. It worked very well and they loved the gift that I got for them and their child. They were just thrilled so it turned out great. It is definitely important to read the return policies or to make sure you get the right item and right size if it is clothing.

My niece got married a year and a half ago in North Boston. They had a gift registry which I thought was ideal because I live so far away and the gift would be a) something they want and b) delivered to them at their home. Unfortunately, the site did not work for Canadians. It was only for U.S. citizens only. I wasn't attending the wedding so that really sucked. My parents went so I got my Dad to put money in a card for me and sign my name (and my family) and I would pay him back. That is my one and only experience with gift registries. You think online shopping is easier. It isn't always.

I use them alot..I always check out the return policies in advance so as to avoid any trouble for the recipient..I like them because the couple can indicate the exact things they need/want and if everyone uses them correctly and reports that they are buying off a registry then the issue of duplication is less.

I like them from a buyer's POV. I have bought gifts from them for people, makes it easier to pick gifts. I have a wish list on Amazon, not quite a gift registry, but still nice.