Shop around the holidays. I know that our wedding is like, a thousand years away, but stores like Macy's and Crate & Barrel hook it up with the sales during the holidays I hear. I have no doubt that a savvy shopper could score big-time using this method.
Shop Macy's on the weekend. Our Registry consultant at Macy's told us that there are lots of items at Macy's (including several that we picked) that go on sale on the weekends, but are full price on weekdays. So, there you go.
Use them internets. Sarah and I chose to do our registries in-store because of the fun we got to have scanning barcodes. We understand, however, that several of these items may be less expensive if you bought them from Amazon or another on-line retailer. A solution: if you find a screaming savings on the great internet post a message to our Guest Book from 'Anonymous' saying which item you purchased and we will remove the item from our registry and remove the post from the guestbook. If the savings aren't that much online though we would appreciate if you shopped Macy's or Crate & Barrel. They go to a lot of trouble to make Gift Registries an inviting experience in their stores, and we get a little something-something back after the wedding based on your purchasing.
That's the break down so far. If we figure out more money saving secrets, we'll be sure to pass them on. Likewise, if you know of an amazing sale coming up at some point throw it in the comments for the benefit of all!