Leah Ingram, author of Plan Your Wedding in No Time, recommends registering soon after getting engaged, "especially if you have an engagement party, shower, birthday or holiday coming up." Etiquette expert Peggy Post adds that your registry should be up and running by the time you send out your save-the-dates.

Lead-crystal decanter with leather cuff, Nacht-mann, $195; at 67 Wine & Spirits, 212-724-6767.