Developing a personalized bridal registry list is a great way to help your guests choose the perfect gift for you. And, it will help you get started on creating your new life together. After the stress and rushing around of the wedding, reception and honeymoon, it's great to come home to the things that will make you feel comfortable and relaxed.

Here are a few dos and don'ts to help you create a perfect registry.

DO

THINK "EVERY DAY" - Today's bridal registries are putting a new spin on tradition. Sure, you may register for special-occasion items including cloth napkins and table centerpieces, and entertaining essentials such as serving platters and glassware. But you should also register for sheets, towels, cookware, bakeware, cutlery and appliances - the things you need for everyday living.

BE SPECIFIC - Let your guests know where you are registered. Usually your shower hostess will spread the word. Kohl's provides registry announcement cards for this purpose.

In addition, your guests will want to know your favorite colors, the size of your bed, what pieces of cookware you need, and your decorating style. Make sure your registry reflects these details!

BE AN EARLY BIRD - Register about five to eight months before the wedding. This assures that your list will be in place before any parties or showers. Re-visit your registry following these events to update, edit or add to it before your wedding day. Taking time to thoughtfully register and keep tabs on your registry in the months leading up to your wedding will help ensure that you get the gifts you really want, and that your guests have the best shopping experience possible. Monitoring your registry the right way is the gift you give your guests.

KNOW YOUR GUESTS - Register in a variety of price ranges, from the college budget to larger, group-gift price tags, to accommodate all your guests.

EXAMINE YOUR GIFTS PROMPTLY - If you are a typical couple, you will have received the majority of your wedding gifts by the end of the first month after your wedding. If there are any problems with the items you have received, take immediate steps to remedy the situation. And be sure you're prompt with your thank-you notes!

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DON'T

FORGET SPECIAL OCCASSIONS - Gifts to help you host holidays and annual events at your home will be welcome ideas to your guests. Register for festive decorative accents such as pillows, linens and centerpieces. Entertaining essentials include serving platters, chip and dip plates and bowls, a pitcher, and barware basics.

"WING IT" - Get prepared before you register. Our room-by-room strategy, tips and bridal registry checklist are designed to help couples prepare for their registry visit to Kohl's. Having an idea of the things you have and the items you need and want will simplify the process.

LET IT END TOO SOON - Although etiquette pros insist that gifts should arrive by the day of the wedding, it is not uncommon to receive gifts up to one year after you're married.

Items will continue to be selected and purchased off your registry while you are away on your honeymoon, so be sure to check it when you return.

During the first year of your marriage, you may continue to receive gift items from your wedding guests. Family, friends and guests might also want to select birthday or holiday gifts for you from your registry list - perhaps that remaining placesetting, missing gravy boat, or extra set of sheets that no one purchased yet. To help you complete your registry, find subtle ways to let those close to you know that the registry is still open, and that if someone is looking to give you a gift, an item from the list would be appreciated. After all, your first anniversary is on its way!

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