Putting together your wedding registry is often one of the most enjoyable parts of engagement. Not only does it let guests know which household essentials you'd love as a newlywed couple, but it also gives you and your partner a chance to dream about the life you're building together.
As fun as it is, the endless aisles of cookware, bedding, and home accents can feel overwhelming—especially with Amazon's endless suggestions. So how do you choose from all those options at your favorite stores? Which items will truly earn a spot in your daily routine?
Since tying the knot, I've discovered a handful of kitchen and home items I've grown to love. Every time I use them, I feel grateful for the friends and family who picked them from our registry—or went off-list with thoughtful surprises.
Here are the wedding gifts I still reach for (almost) every day.
01. Vegetable Steamer
This kitchen essential was a staple in my mom's home when I was growing up, and her go-to method for cooking veggies rubbed off on me. I use my vegetable steamer multiple times a week to prepare carrots, asparagus, and green beans. Short on time? Just toss in a bag of frozen vegetables—I find they turn out much better than boiling or microwaving. My favorite dish to make with the steamer is green beans: steam them until nearly tender, then transfer to a pan with olive oil, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Sauté until cooked through and fragrant. Delicious!
02. His and Hers “Mugs”
My husband and I are big tea drinkers, and I love pulling out our Emma Bridgewater mugs in the morning with breakfast or at night for a cup of chamomile before bed. This gift wasn't on our registry, but a friend knew exactly what was missing from our newlywed wish list when she bought them. I think it's important to include items that celebrate an activity you and your partner love doing together. Love camping or hiking? Consider his and hers Corkcicle canteens. Whatever your hobby, don't hesitate to honor it on your registry.
03. Electric Tea Kettle
Whether you're into tea or coffee, I believe every home needs one of these. The electric tea kettle is perfect for heating water for a French press or an afternoon cup of tea. Not a coffee or tea drinker? Use it for instant hot chocolate or hot cider. Guests will also appreciate the convenience when they visit. In my home, I've set up a "tea bar" where the mugs, kettle, and a selection of teas all live together.
04. Decorative Curtains
Your registry is a chance to add a few nice accent curtains that dress up a room. These might be some of your pricier items (they were for me), but don't let that stop you. The Knot advises, "While you should always maintain some perspective, you shouldn't think of anything as off-limits on your registry. Coworkers, schoolmates and friends like to chip in together, so they can buy a more expensive present." Some stores also offer discounts on items that weren't purchased.
05. SkinnyTaste Fast and Slow Cookbook
No joke, this cookbook is my kitchen bible. Don't let the title fool you—these are hearty recipes packed with rich, healthy ingredients. Meals I make from this book often get my husband saying, "You can make that again!" It includes recipes for the slow cooker as well as quick stovetop or oven dishes. Some of my favorites: Slow Cooker Turkey, White Bean and Pumpkin Chili, and Slow Cooker Maple-Dijon Chicken Drumsticks. (By the way, this gift pairs perfectly with number 6.)
Real Frying Pans That Look like Alien Planets
06. Slow Cooker
During the colder months, I pull out my slow cooker several times a week for chili, pot roast, chicken, and soup—just to name a few. I look for easy morning prep meals so I can cross dinner off the list by breakfast. Be sure to read the manual for care and cleaning instructions. Maintaining the equipment is key to making it last for years. Here's a great article on how to clean your slow cooker.
07. Utensil Holder
Before we got married, my husband used to cram all his spoons and spatulas into a drawer. That's why a utensil holder was one of the first things we added to our registry. I love the one we chose because it's sturdy (holds a ton of utensils) and made in the USA. But the best part? It keeps our kitchen drawers clutter-free.
08. Keurig
This is a popular wedding registry item for good reason. Whether I'm enjoying a leisurely cup of coffee while catching up on a show or grabbing a quick cup before rushing out the door, I'm grateful for a coffee maker that's as simple as tossing a K-Cup. Like the electric tea kettle, I also love how convenient it is for guests. No need to keep brewing fresh pots during a party—just keep water and K-Cups handy, and the Keurig handles the rest.
09. T-fal Titanium Non-stick Cookware
Goodbye, staining, soaking, and scrubbing! Our kitchen got a major upgrade when we unwrapped this gift. My husband and I had no idea how much harder we were making meal prep with terrible pots and pans. Now that we have quality non-stick pans, we actually enjoy cooking together. Whether you choose T-fal or another brand, take time to research good cookware. (Also, consider adding wooden utensils to your registry to help your non-stick pans last longer.)
I hope these ideas help as you start planning the wedding registry of your dreams. Enjoy this exciting time of engagement as you pick out the items that will bring your vision of married life to life.
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