What are the rules on registering for gifts and having a bridal shower etc if you eloped and are having a reception a month later?

Answer 1

The basic rules for bridal showers are 1) that neither you nor your close family (such as your mother) should throw the shower; 2) that you shouldn't list where you are registered on the invitations you send your guests for your wedding/reception (though it's OK for whoever is throwing the shower to mention it in those invitations, since buying gifts is the point of the shower); for the reception, people who want to know where you're registered will either ask you, your mother, etc. or they'll figure it out themselves, and 3) it's OK to register even if you eloped, though if this is a second or third marriage it can be seen as tactless, in that you're asking guests to buy you presents for the second or third time.