I didn’t have a registry, and as a result I got three picnic baskets, because apparently that is what your parents’ friends get you when there is not a registry, even if you live in a climate that is not picnic friendly. So registries may exist mainly as as picnic basket deterrent.

I don’t think there’s any too-cheap gift, including no gift. I just want the people I like to be able to be there, and I’m pretty sure I represent the norm. I don’t think anybody assumes friends in their 20s and 30s have tons of money to throw around.