Registering: The basics

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Getting to set up a wedding registry with your partner is one of the highlights of wedding planning for any shoppers out there. But it can be hard to know what you really need. We've put together a list of basics for your registry. Customize it to your own needs!
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Kitchen

  • Coffeemaker
  • Crock pot
  • Food processor
  • Stand mixer
  • Toaster
  • Pots and pans
  • Cast iron Dutch oven
  • Good knives
  • Silverware
  • Simple serving dishes
  • Place settings (eight sets is a common number - it might be too many for now, but it won't always be!)
  • Glasses
  • Bar tools
  • Table decorations, such as candlesticks, table runners, nice napkins and place mats
Living Room

  • Picture frames
  • Decorative pillows and throws
  • Rugs
  • Curtains
  • Vases, bowls and other decorative pieces (these are great as less expensive registry items)
  • Art

Bedroom

  • Two sheet sets
  • Comforter/duvet
  • Quality pillows
  • Humidifier/dehumidifier

Bathroom

  • Towels
  • Shower curtain
  • Bathroom set (toothbrush holder, soap holder, etc.)
  • Full-length mirror

For Cleaning

  • Vacuum
  • Ironing board and iron
  • Hampers

Outside

  • Grill/Barbeque
  • Patio furniture
  • Welcome mat

Etc.

  • Totes and other organizational supplies. Especially if you have a small home, you're going to need some help making good use of your space and organizing all of your gifts. 
  • Supplies for your hobbies. Do you love camping? Include a tent or a camp stove. Are you music dorks? Register for great vinyl or a set of quality speakers. This is your registry after all, and it's there to set you up for your life together.
  • Gift cards. These are great contingency gifts. You'll realize you forgot to register for something you need, or something will come up, and you'll be prepared! This is even more crucial if you're getting married far from your home, either at a destination wedding or close to your families; you won't want to cart a bunch of gifts home on the plane.
  • Honeymoon registry. This is a controversial one. Some people still view it as tacky, but if your honeymoon is your primary concern, or you're already set up in a home together, it's a viable option. To keep it from veering toward tacky, rather than asking for a blanket amount, itemize your list, for example: A night in our honeymoon suite, $120; lunch by the sea, $40; couple's massage, $80; etc.
  • Donations. If you've already got most of what you need, asking for donations to a favorite charity is a great option.

Did we forget anything? What was your best wedding gift? Tell us in the comments below!