You're about to become a new bride and your head is swirling with details concerning your forthcoming wedding, selecting your photographer, and the general preparations before the ceremony itself. Then you realize you've got this awkward situation with wedding day gifts and decide to take some pressure off by coordinating a gift registry. But how do you go about it?

Whether you're creating a Target bridal registry or a fancy registry at Nordstrom's or Waterford Crystal, the same rules apply. You need a variety of gifts, a range of price points and some standard items that are an absolute must.

To learn more about what you should and shouldn't be putting on your Target bridal registry, along with some simple registry etiquette rules and answers to your frequently asked questions, keep reading.

How do I know how much to register for?

It may feel greedy, but you should actually register for slightly more gifts than you think you ought. Your guests will like that they have a range of choices and budget options from which to choose rather than being constrained by a seriously limited wedding registry. Before you set out, have a mental number in your mind that includes the number of wedding guests or couples who will be bringing gifts and the guests at your shower.

Ideally, your only limiting factor should be to select items that you know you will use, love and have the room for.

Should Target be my only registry?

Just having a single registry at Target will certainly make your life simple, but you might also find that they don't have the full selection you're looking for. Many brides will register at a store like Target for everyday items and then a more expensive merchant for items like fine china or stemware.

Can I have too many inexpensive items on my registry?

Yes. Ideally, you want to provide guests with a mix and an equal number of midrange and lower-cost items, and then a smaller group of big ticket items. Remember, your loving grandmother isn't going to want to give you a $19.99 "heirloom" mixing bowl.

That said, inexpensive items are an essential part of a registry and make a great pool for shower gifts. When you do pick lower-priced items, be sure to choose gifts that people will actually want to give.

When do I send my cards of thanks?

Thank you cards can start going out as soon as gifts are received. In fact, writing your thank you cards in small batches will help you get a handle on a major time task and help keep track of who gave what gift.

Etiquette dictates that you have up to a year to finish writing and sending your thank you notes, but ideally you should do it sooner rather than later.

How do I let guests know that I'm registered at Target?

The most important rule is to never include the information with your paper invitations - it's considered to be in poor taste. Instead, you can include a link to your Target bridal registry on your wedding website or simply rely on your maid-of-honor, best man and parents to spread the word.