We already have everything we need. Do we still need to create a wedding registry?
Your guests are going to congratulate you with a gift whether you create registries or not. It’s better to give them some ideas of your style or things you could want or use. You can always upgrade or replace items you already have. Honeymoon registries are a great option for couples who prefer experiences over stuff. Your guests can contribute to travel costs, excursions, dinners and more. There are also charitable wedding registries that allow you to ask for donations to your favorite nonprofit organizations.

Our parents aren’t contributing to the wedding financially. Do we still need to get them thank-you gifts?  
Thank-you gifts given to parents or parent figures are meant to reflect your gratitude for their presence and guidance in your life up until that point, not necessarily for the wedding itself. A small gift and hand-written note is a touching way to acknowledge them on your big day, even if they aren’t helping to pay for it.

Are reception favors really necessary?  
Unfortunately, most wedding favors tend to be a waste and are left behind by guests, so skip the tchotchkes. However, you should express your gratitude for your guests in some way. Display a thank you sign at the reception or donate to a nonprofit in their names. You can even get double duty out of some reception highlights by allowing your photo booth print-outs or cookie table to-go boxes to serve as favors.

How can we support small and local businesses while wedding planning?  
Shopping small with your wedding is actually quite easy. Work with a local stationery designer rather than ordering invitations online. Hire an independent photographer, not one that contracts through a larger corporation. Opt for purchasing custom suits or tuxedos from a local menswear boutique instead of renting. Look for a florist and caterer who source products from area growers.

Victoria Deardorff is the owner and editor of Pittsburgh’s wedding blog, Burgh Brides (burghbrides.com). Look for her “Ask the Expert” column in Pittsburgh Magazine.