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You'd think the toughest part of receiving gifts is writing thank-you notes after the wedding. But as most already know, the path to getting what you want is paved with careful advance planning. Those gift registries weren't designed for nothing, after all.

Despite changing trends in the kinds of gifts we like to give and receive, certain basic, timeless approaches will help nearly any bride and groom.

The first thing is to determine what you really need and want. Do you need both everyday dinnerware and fine china? Do you already have basic housewares and want to opt instead for electronics, luxuries or labor-saving devices?

Before you visit any stores, take inventory of what you already have and note where your gaps are. It's also important to determine the quantities you require of various items, such as tableware, as well as preferred color schemes and the level of formality at which you intend to live or entertain.

At the store, make use of the in-house gift registry director. You may need to make an appointment in advance; and once you arrive, plan to spend a good amount of time getting things settled. He or she can help you figure out what kinds of items you can use based on your lifestyle, make recommendations on specific merchandise and quantities and advise you on pricing.

This wish list can be computerized at most stores and altered as various items on the list are purchased, thus reducing your chances of receiving duplicates. Of course, if you register at two or more stores for the same items, make sure you update the registries at each store once the presents start coming in.

Most wedding gift consultants agree that it's important to register early since many friends and relatives will use that list to buy engagement and shower gifts.

What do you register for? Well, the most common items still include formal and everyday dinnerware, glassware, serving accessories, flatware, table and bath linens, cutlery, cooking equipment and appliances.

Before heading into the stores, you can create your own initial checklist.

If you already have the basics, you might want to seek out more unusual venues at which to register. How about a hardware store? Why not put a toolboxes, a step stool and a cordless electric drill on your gift list?

Or register at a furniture store for accessories like lamps, area rugs, window dressings and clocks. If you and your partner share a hobby or sport, consider registering at stores that sell the equipment you use — whether it's camping gear, gardening tools or skin-diving paraphernalia.

What if you have the basics and yearn for the good stuff: fine china, crystal, sterling silver flatware? How do you select such epic pieces when you've always dined on chunky crockery and stainless-steel flatware?

Where crystal is concerned, go for a simple pattern if your dinnerware and flatware are going to be more ornate. Conversely, if you're choosing simpler dinnerware, you can add flair with more ornate crystal.

For entertaining you may need more than just water glasses, wineglasses and champagne glasses. Iced-tea glasses, highball glasses and brandy snifters will round out the set. You don't drink brandy or highballs? Well, these vessels can be used for number of other beverages and even dessert.

Fine lead crystal should have a clear ringing sound when struck. Since it is handmade, there may be some flaws like shear marks or tiny bubbles, but these flaws should be minimal.

Porcelain or bone china? Flat-rimmed or scalloped? Solid color or floral? There are so many choices available that you can make yourself crazy trying to decide. A piece of fine dinnerware is translucent when held up to the light and resonates gently when tapped. Floral motifs are currently the most popular, but plain china banded in gold or silver is always stylish.