What To Add To Your Wedding Registry: Part One.
I recently received an email from Jessie asking me for some suggestions on what to add to her wedding registry to make her more savvy and domestic in the kitchen.
You may remember reading about the day Mr. How Sweet and I went to register for our wedding gifts; it is the day I diagnosed him with hungry-angry husband syndrome. Luckily, my grandma came to the rescue and helped me register for gifts while Mr. How Sweet ate steak, ice cream cones, and ventured off for a new bottle of water every 16 seconds.
My grandma had actually encouraged me to make a registry before I even knew Mr. How Sweet. There was no way I was putting the cart before that horse, so obviously I didn’t do that. But I can understand why she wanted to start buying me gifts that I would use and carry on with me through out my life. I guess the point I’m trying to make here is that you don’t need to have a registry for a list like this. Here, you will find what I think are the perfect items for stocking a bare kitchen, or adding to your wish lists.
1. Basic, Everyday Dishware.
This is something I regret. We did not go with a basic, plain white. We got Lenox Butler’s Pantry dishware, which is very pretty and can be used for casual or more elegant dinners.
Over the last two years, I’ve found that it just isn’t basic enough for me. That, and it is huge. My dad calls them the “Flintstones” plates because I can’t close my cabinet doors due to them being so large. They are more of a beige color and I really think that a nice, clean white would match everything better. Think timeless.
2. Fine china.
Obviously, this is your own personal preference. But it saddens me that my generation really isn’t into dining elegantly anymore. It is true what they say – you really never will buy china for yourself. Even if you come into money, there will always be something else that is much more practical or fun you wish to buy. Â China was important to me because my mom, aunts and grandmothers all used it. I have pieces of my grandmothers and even great-grandmothers china and I really treasure it.
The truth? I haven’t even used or unpacked our china yet. In fact, it is still in my parent’s basement. But I also don’t host holiday dinners yet. I know that when the time comes, I will use it and use it often. My mom didn’t unpack her china for over 20 years, and it still stayed intact after my brothers shot hockey pucks at it for most of their childhood.
China is something I definitely don’t regret getting. Opal Innocence was our choice and I love it!
3. Crystal.
Again, this is debatable, but it is something you will never buy for yourself. It is also something that my mom and grandmothers both use/used often. I am so glad we registered for this because when I think about it now, there are so many other things we want to do: home improvements, vacations, savings … dropping a few hundred dollars on crystal would never happen.
And another reason I adore my crystal? My grandma picked it out solely herself because I could not make a decision. After she passed away, we found all the crystal glasses that she had already bought (completing the registry) to give us as gifts.
4. TWO sets of basic silverware.
This has been a lifesaver. I got through utensils like socks, and I find that one set of silverware does not come with enough serving spoons/forks/etc.
5. Basic appliances.
Think toaster, blender, stand mixer or hand mixer, food processor (large, small or both), a panini press or indoor grill, an electric skillet (these are so nice to have for big breakfasts!), a coffee maker and even some “fun” items like a waffle maker or quesadilla maker.
This will differ on your preferences, but the first few items will always come in handy. For instance – we don’t drink coffee but registered for a coffee maker to have when we entertain.
6. A crock pot.
I never thought I would use a crock pot, most likely because my mom never did. But it definitely comes in handy, especially if you both work full-time jobs. Even if you don’t think you will use it, get one anyway, store it in the basement, and I promise it will be a lifesaver one day!
7. A complete set of pots and pans.
If you get a set of high-quality pots and pans, my first suggestion is to read the directions and FOLLOW THEM. This means that if they say to not use any non-stick spray, or to not soak the skillet in soapy water, don’t do it. In the near future I’ll be sharing my pots and pans dilemma. It is a sad tale.
8. A cast iron skillet.
This is another piece that is timeless and is most likely something you won’t buy yourself. It is extremely versatile and you can make breakfasts, dinners and desserts in it.
9. A set (or two) of graduated mixing bowls.
Pretty self-explanatory, but they always will be used – whether you are mixing cake batter or eating a big bowl of popcorn on movie night.
10. Cake pans and baking sheets.
Baking sheets are used for everything from cookies to pizza to heating frozen meals. And when it comes to cake pans, think two round pans for layer cakes, a springform pan for cheesecake, a bundt and/or angel food cake pan, and a loaf pan for banana breads.
Even if you don’t bake now, chances are you will want to make something somewhere down the road.
11. A set of bakeware.
A set of dishes like Pyrex or Corningware that you can bake casseroles in or take as travel meals on holidays.
Even better: if you can find the carry-alongs that come with hot/cold packs. I love those!
12. Everyday tumblers and wine glasses.
We got some “fun” glasses, but also got a few sets of unbreakable glasses. Then one broke in our sink. Oh well.
13. A good set of knives.
This is something you most likely won’t buy for yourself. Again, follow the directions! If they say not to put them in the dishwasher, don’t. We have ruined many of our good knives already.
14. Cutting boards.
I can never get enough cutting boards. I love them in all sizes – mini, medium and large. You will always use them, whether it is cutting limes for drinks, prepping meat, or slicing vegetables.
I obviously never do that last one.
15. Useful gadgets.
Think garlic press, can opener, microplane, multiple sets of measuring cups and spoons, meat and candy thermometers, ice cream scoopers, spatulas, hand-held juicers and anything else that might catch your eye. We got a few things that I still find today and get very excited to use them!
So these are what I deem to be the kitchen basics. Obviously, you can pick and choose from the list based on your preferences. I suggest registering for the things you really need, and then a few things that you want + some fun items. Don’t make the list overwhelming (I think we did this) and make sure to have items at every price point. Remember – most people will still have access to your registry for a long time after the wedding, and it is a great place for people to look for gifts for you.
Stay tuned for Part Two: more household basics + fun items!
Is there anything you would add to or remove from this kitchen list? Any must-haves that you wish you would have registered for or you can’t wait to get one day?
58 Comments on “What To Add To Your Wedding Registry: Part One.”
This list is SO helpful for those of us who are expecting to go through this process in the near future. I’ve given many meat and oven thermometers to friends who have married. Food thermometers are something that many don’t think about purchasing, but they make a HUGE difference in cooking in the kitchen–especially meat thermometers, which take out the guess work of cooking proteins.
Very true!
i have always said i wish i’d had a stand mixer in there…they’re so expensive, but i use mine almost every day! might as well have someone else buy it for ya ;)
i think these are great tips – i have mixed feelings about china and crystal. we registered for all of that and got it, but it will sit in my parents’ house until we have a home big enough to actually store it. hopefully by that time i’ll still like what we picked out…
I’d like to comment about the crystal and china – I received about half a set of each after getting married last year. Unfortunately, it would have cost several thousand dollars to finish the sets (and these were just mid-line sets from Bed Bath and Beyond), which wasn’t possible after just paying for a wedding. When I was lamenting this to my mom, she pointed out that as the only child who cares about things like china, she plans on giving me her (really nice, family heirloom) set at some point when she moves into a smaller house. Since I’ll be moving a few times over the next few years and won’t be hosting holidays any time soon, the situation works out really well – no moving heavy fragile boxes, no storage, and a much nicer set with a lot more meaning. Long story short : its worth talking to your parents (or his) to see if they planning on passing down their china at some point before you buy or ask others to buy you a set of your own.
As far as kitchen gadgets go, the rabbit wine open and nice heavy-duty garlic press were life-changers!
This is an excellent tip! Thank you so much for sharing. And I agree – we would have never been able to complete the china registry ourselves if we hadn’t received it all.
What kind of toaster is that in the picture? I LOVE the color, and I want it. :)
Also, I agree with what Heather said above, I think a stand mixer is a great wedding registry item. I love mine and can’t imagine what I would do without it now.
I honestly am not sure, I just pulled a picture off google images. It is really cool, isn’t it? I want it too!
DeLonghi Classic Blu toaster. Not sure if it’s still available tho..
Dude you just described my dream kitchen…except no chocolate tempering machine.
Add it to the list!
Thank you, thank you! I cannot wait to see Part II–this has already been helpful!
What a clever post!! I wish I would have registered for fine china…
Completely agree with the silverware thing! We had to go back and buy a second set, which is just *slightly* different, because there are NOT enough pieces in one set.
I might add a cast iron dutch oven, if you have room for an extra pot. I love mine for doing roasts in the oven or making chili on the stove. Next I’m going to try baking bread in it!
I agree with the dutch oven and a good set of knives. I would also suggest a good roasting pan, great for cooking roasts, turkeys/chickens, veggies, and even lasagna.
And of course, anything Le Creuset.
Of course!
You are so right – I totally forgot about a dutch oven!
I got a crockpot and mixing bowls. I knew the crockpot would come in handy but I never thought I’d use the bowls. I love them. I wish I had 2 sets!
Bowls are the best.
This is so helpful!! Thanks–for future reference ;)
I have the same china pattern!
thanks for the helpful tips! i will definitely keep them in mind :)
great post! I wish I had this back when I was registering! I agree completely with all of it =)
now i just wish i had gotten the stuff I registered for! hehe
It’s interesting. I have never been married but think it will be interesting if/when I do as I’ve always cooked so I just got used to buying things for myself, or asking for them for holiday presents. It will be interesting to see what I would register for if the time were to come. I love your advice of registering for the things you need with a few goodies mixed in. :-)
I like that you indicated which things were your personal preference. The one thing I’ve noticed with my friends is that so many of they mentioned they registered for things they thought they SHOULD get, without thinking about how they cook or what they could use. So if you are the kind of person who wants china and could see yourself using it then i think you should absolutely register for it, but if you’re not that person I think that is okay too. Same with most other things on the list.
If I were me I would probably start making a list of things as I realized I didn’t have them or would want them. I would also add the piece of advice that for things you use everyday or more often it’s worth opting for higher quality brands. I know people look at the price points of certain things and their jaws drop, but when you can use something for a lifetime and have it still be in good condition, it’s worth it.
Excellent tip – you get what you pay for!
I had my mom help me with the registry process and thank goodness! I learned that she is passing down her fine china to me, and we would have no china on our registry. Therefore, we got to register for nice every day dishes – in white just like you want! – and I LOVE that we got those instead of fine china. They are Juliska, so microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe and we use them everyday. Wish I had registered for silverware, we have been married for three months and are already on a silverware hunt…something with tons of large spoons. My husband goes through them so quickly!
I already had a full kitchen when we got married, so I knew what I wanted to upgrade and what I was fine with – I love my Le Cruset dutch oven, stand mixer, and ice cream maker!
Basic dishes that arent huge
Basic silverware that’s pretty but you can run thru the Dwisher w/out freaking it will get ruined
A Vitamix
A food proc
Good knives!!!!
A good coffee pot
Cutting boards
With that, I could live for 50 yrs.
Considering we got married in Vegas at the $199 wedding package with a pink plastic corsage and i wore a hot pink betsey johnson dress with a 25 cent pink ring on my finger, a registry was the LAST thing on my mind.
I was looking to get tip-sy. :)
Great list girl!
LOL!
this is an awesome and comprehensive list… if I ever need to, I would send someone here. :)
I had a great paying internship at a laboratory while in college, and was a huge baker even back then, so I bought many of these items myself (also why my Old Lady Vitamix is … so old!) But she is lovely as the first day I got her :)
I sometimes take out my “good china” to use… even for a breakfast scrambled eggs or a lunchtime sandwich :D
I should do that!
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We didn’t register for china and we don’t have any yet. My parents have a couple of beautiful sets, and one of them will become mine when my dad downsizes to a smaller house one day. I wish we could take it now but we live in such a small space we have no room. Same with crystal, nice tablecloths, and other nice things.
Before I even met PB I bought my silverware for my new condo. It was $250 but I bought TWO sets- a serious investment for a first home. I am so thankful I did that because not only do we have gorgeous silverware but we have ENOUGH of it.
One thing I disagree with in your post is any fun items like a waffle maker. We have a few of these fun things and I regret it because they take up so much space considering how little we use them. I guess my situation might be different since we live in tight quarters, but I wish I had the boxes and could return those things!
Love this post and can’t wait for part 2. Can I share my fave thing now? I have these tablecloths that are water resistant and are AMAZING. They are inexpensive but look nice and I think everyone needs at least one. Spill a glass of red wine? NO PROBLEM because it just bubble up!
Where did you get those?! I need some!
I have the same china too! Also, we probably got more expensive everyday from williams sonoma and it is amazing. Supposedly you can put it in the oven. 2 years later it looks new. And no I don’t work for them!
Great post! I so agree – a GOOD
Oooops – anyhow, a GOOD knife is worth its weight in gold! I would only add a good storage set, like Rubbermaid, for leftovers (I like glass pyrex ones). I have never once used my China but Iam glad I got it. I need to complete it! totally agree on two flatware sets. Can’t wait for next post!
Oh how I wish this post was available when I registered last year.
A dutch oven and a good knife were things on our list and I was SO glad!
Something we learned from our wedding last year was WHERE you register can matter a lot. We registered 2 places, Crate and Barrel and then Bed Bath and Beyond. Crate and Barrel offered us a 10% off coupon after our wedding to finish our registry, but it was only good on items that were on our registry.
Bed Bath and Beyond offered us 20% off to finish our registry, and they even had a special even for newlyweds to come in and they could win something for just coming. Plus, we registered for Calphalon cookware at BBB and just for registering for $500 worth we got FREE stuff. A free dutch oven. Then, if $400 worth on our registry was purchased we got ANOTHER something free from them. It was a major score and by the time we were done, we had finished out everything on our list and then some. And, at Bed Bath and Beyond it didn’t matter if we bought off of our list, it was all 20% off.
I swear I don’t work for them, it was just such an amazing thing for a newlywed couple to have that great of a start to our new life together.
I have that toaster :-) Great list – I will be sure to pass this on to my sister, as she will be registering soon for her wedding.
I love love LOVE our All Clad set. I probably would have liked to put a nice china set on our registry. Right now we just don’t have the space. Maybe when we buy/build a house. ;-)
What a great list!!! I am sure you have a mixing bowl set with the huge “let’s make 15 dozen cookies RIGHT NOW” mixing bowl set. If so, where to find one? My mom got one in the 80s and isn’t giving it up. My set only could hold say, a large meatloaf, and even that gives me handcramps while mixing.
Have you ever made a dessert in a cast iron skillet and shared it here? I’d be interested to see!
The mixing bowls I have aren’t huge – I have 1 sets: pink ones by Kitchenaid that match my mixer, and Martha Stewart ones. And no, I have never shared a dessert in a cast iron skillet. Possibly in 2011! :)
I wish I had put bar set on my list. It’s inexpenive, useful and the person buying can look foward to coming over.
Also, putting expsensive liquor (Bowmore 15, Grey Goose and a good Absinthe) on my list is something I’m glad I did. It lasts and comes in handy. Which actually was my signifs idea =]
As we are getting ready to celebrate our 16 year wedding anniversary (I’m not really old, I got married at 10), we just pulled out our china for Christmas. I really didn’t want to register for it, but I did, and am so thankful. We also registered for Christmas china, and it comes in handy…we interchange the pieces with our basic china (they match nicely).
I used to sell Pampered Chef so my kitchen is fully stocked with gadgets and what-this galore! I would have to say my favorite set of mixing bowls are Pampered Chef, they are stainless steel, with rubber grip bottoms. Love them. I wish I had registered with Pampered Chef actually!
Anyways, any chance I can register for my anniversary? I need some new bath towels!
-Aimee
When I moved out on my own, a crockpot was the first thing I asked for. My mom never used one either, but she also didn’t work. I would be lost without my crockpot! I make everything in it! I would say 80% of my dinners are crockpot dinners. And some lunches too!
What great ideas. I mirror the hesitations on china if your guests are of more humble economic means. I knew that our guests wouldn’t have the means to purchase it for us, and therefore we’d end up with an incomplete set. I decided that it would be best to acquire a complete set someday when I’m ready to use it than to have an incomplete set.
Because we also knew that several of our guests would want to go OFF the registry, we made sure to provide some vital information – the color scheme for each room, types of things we enjoy (baking, outdoor adventures, etc.), and our favorite stores. I’m so glad we did this. The off-registry gifts were some of the most thoughtful and ended up being some of my favorites!
Same here! I loved getting the gifts that we weren’t expecting.
Hi!
PLEASE, OH PLEASE could you tell me what brand that blue toaster is? I think it is absolutley adorable, but can’t quite make out the brand on the side???
Thank you : )
So sorry I am not sure… I just pulled it off google images!
One thing I’d suggest when creating your list of fun items for your kitchen if you have young children in your life (i.e. nieces and nephews who visit often or neighbors who you babysit) – You will want some tableware for kids. I use plastic cups with lids and straws all the time. Also lightweight, unbreakable plates and bowls for snacks and treats that can be easily transferred from room to room. This way the kids (and their parents and you too) can be comfortable and more carefree in your home.
If only I read this years ago!!! We (especially I) was totally clueless when completing our registry.
If I were to do it again, I would’ve definitely added crystal and fine china!!
This post is excellent! I’ve bookmarked it so I can come back to it when I’m registering for my wedding later this year.
I’m going to have to add this post to my favourite posts at the end of this coming week! :)
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I just found this post and would love to see a part 2! Although I’m not registering at the moment, I am trying to compile a list of kitchen must-haves!
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I already own one but I would definitely recommend including an Immersion Blender on a Wedding Registry. I love mines. I really, really want a Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer. I’ve wanted one for years and haven’t bought any because of price but I am finally going to treat myself this year and buy one.
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