Q. My fiancé and I try to support local businesses whenever possible. Do you know of any options for wedding registries beyond the typical big-box chains?
A. We sure do! Many smaller boutiques now offer wedding registries; our current favorite is George Watts & Son, a family-owned luxury tabletop and gift shop based in downtown Milwaukee.
“The big-box stores all have the same thing,” says floor manager Kelly Hunter. “While we have similar items, we also specialize in the eclectic, one-of-a-kind pieces that say ‘classy.’ ”
George Watts & Son has been in Milwaukee for 140 years, offering one-on-one service in an elegant yet cozy atmosphere. The registry system is designed to allow for personal attention for as much or as little time as each bride and groom needs; they don’t simply send you off with a scanner.
“Our staff give each couple that comes to register their full attention,” Hunter says. “They walk around with the couple, show them everything we have to offer and help them make decisions.” The staff will spend all day with couples if needed and remain available throughout the process, including after the wedding. Each couple also gets lunch for two at Watts Tea Shop, and after the wedding they can receive 15 percent off remaining items on their list—5 percent more than most larger chain stores offer. georgewatts.com
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