Traditional Bridal Registries Are Evolving to Accommodate the Needs Of More Mature Brides, According to Better Sleep Council Survey

Furniture World Magazine

Nearly half of all married couples would pick a mattress as their first household purchase, instead of a more traditional newlywed gift like china, according to a recentsurvey conducted by The Better Sleep Council. "Today's bride is older, more affluent and probably already owns her own china and flatware," said Nancy Blatt, executive director of The Better Sleep Council. Instead, brides are looking at the bridal registry as a chance to pick up some big-ticket items, like couches, kitchen tables, lawn furniture and -- first and foremost- a new mattress. According to the survey, 47% of married couples would pick a mattress as their first household purchase. 33% of engaged couples chose a mattress as their top pick beating out couches, kitchen tables, lawn furniture, and a china cabinet. These choices are reflective of the changing needs of newlyweds, as couples require less items found on a traditional registry, and are looking to receive gifts that they do not already own. Nontraditional items, such as mattresses, are becoming commonplace on bridal registries today for couples that get married later in life – the average age of an American bride is now 29, when only forty years ago it was 20.3. "As more couples wait to walk down the aisle, bridal registries are shifting to reflect the unique needs and wants of more mature couples," said Blatt. "Purchasing a mattress is a priority for newlyweds and offers a unique wedding gift opportunity for close friends and family." Evidence of changing bridal registries can be found online at wedding resources such as TheKnot.com which offers engaged couples the opportunity to register for 'units' of gifts, allowing the bridal party, parents and other wedding guests to purchase a 'unit' of the couple's honeymoon hotel, theater tickets, or a night on the town. In keeping with this trend, Amazon.com offers those tying the knot an opportunity to create a 'wish list' that can include everything from DVDs to outerwear. Mortgage lenders even help guests contribute toward a couple's 'nest egg' by providing a program where guests can contribute to a couple's first home down payment. Visit the Better Sleep Council's web site at http://www.bettersleep.org to download a free copy of the 16-page Better Sleep Guide, or to request a free copy contact P.O. Box 19534, Alexandria, VA 22320. Findings are taken from a survey of 1026 men and women, conducted by The Polling Company/WomanTrend, during May 6-11, 2003. The margin of error is +/- 3%. Leah Ingram, a noted author on weddings and gift giving is available for interviews regarding the latest trends in bridal registries. Spokespersons are also available from The Better Sleep Council to discuss the survey findings or to talk about the importance of selecting a quality mattress.