Q&A: Is It Rude to Register for Gifts?

Just the opposite: The registry is simply a wish list—a convenience to help guide friends and family to the goods you want and need, if they want the help. Shower guests aren't required to buy off your registry (or to buy you anything at all). Now even if you do register, you should never expect to receive only the gifts on your list, or diss a friend who goes off the registry. It probably means they were putting extra thought and effort into searching for the perfect gift!