Here's a look at how bridal registries have changed through the years, according to Doris Nixon, director of educational services for the National Bridal Service. 1901 - First bridal registry reportedly is started by H.C. Winkle of China Hall Co. of Rochester, Minn., after he ran into difficulty keeping track of brides' purchases or wants. Popular gift items include kerosene lamps, commode sets, hand-painted china and berry sets, pitchers with matching glasses and china.
More merchants implement bridal registries to encourage sales during the Great Depression.
Dayton's, a Minnesota retailer, becomes the first department store to promote bridal registering. The first bridal registries begin to be computerized. 1980s - Discounters enter the bridal registry business, as do such specialty stores as New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art gift shop and Gucci. Cappuccino makers, bread makers and other gourmet items become popular wedding gifts. 1990s - Bridal registries expand further, thanks to the influx of stores such as Home Depot.