Home improvement fund

IMO? By not having one or thinking it's appropriate to ask guests for cash as a wedding gift. Not registering isn't a wink, wink, nudge, nudge nor does it mean you are asking for money, only that you aren't asking or thinking of any gifts at all.

That said, assuming cash, a check etc. is an acceptable gift in your circles, the natural consequence of having no registry will likely be that guests will opt to give you money instead. A few may buy you tangible gifts. That's their call, though, not yours.

I am thinking more home renovations versus improvement items. examples: we need to renovate the bathroom and are currently renovating the 2nd bath. need new windows in the whole house. carpet for the top story, pave/extend the driveway, etc.

Just don't register - people will give you cash/checks. With no registry, you might get questions on what you want. I would spread the word that "oh, we're saving up for new windows in he house and have to replace carpet too!". PPl will get the idea.

I understand you have lots to organize with wedding planning and a home reno, but I would keep them separate. Detailing a registry with these items becomes too personal. You don't want a visitor to come over and say "I paid for these windows"... Just use word of mouth if someone asks about lack of registry, as Lady posted.

I agree with others to not register and if it's the norm in your social circle, you'll likely receive wedding gifts of cash/checks that you can spend on whatever you want to. With a 100-guest wedding, daughter and SIL thought their guests were very generous, and they did not receive enough to fund any of the specific improvements you've listed. Unless you have a large guest list and guests who gift VERY generously, I don't think you need to do anything to suggest specific items that guest might contribute to. If you are asked for gift ideas, I think a generic, we're saving for home renovations will convey the idea.