How did wedding registries work pre-web2? Did guests just bring/send whatever they thought would be a good gift?

Any boomers on here that can enlighten the rest of us?

My parents (descendants of Italy and Germany) got married in 1969 in Argentina, with a small ceremony. The gifts mostly consisted of items that were already in the family, some handmade, and from wealthier relatives, a gold coin (they were called "Mexicanos").
My parents are no longer alive, but I still have one of their wedding gifts: this Italian chest, brought to America from Italy by my great-grandmother

Developer/Builder.
Snob.
Fren.
Hodler.
Based mmfer.

We do some music enjoying. We play some basketball. We degen with the homies.

Punta del Este, Maldonado Department, Uruguay

Amazing! That looks like a super quality piece of furniture and the story behind it obviously adds a ton of sentimental value. Thanks a ton for sharing! 100 $degen