I've never been a huge fan of registries either, but i can totally see the need for them for things like weddings and showers. It helps since someone might think something is really nice but might be totally something you wouldn't like or that wouldn't fit into your decor. It also helps so that you dont end up with 3 blenders or something like that as well. But then again, thats what gift receipts are for

I never thought to use the registry for colour ideas tho - thanks Karen! I usually make people stuff (stained glass, quilts, etc.), so that would be totally helpful to match to their living space