Bridal registry tips and items you’ll really use

While the fondue pot and ice cream maker seem like must-haves when you’re adding items to your bridal registry, it’s important to ask yourself, “Will I really use these items on a regular basis?” You may want to reconsider your selections. And, although making a wedding gift wish list can be daunting, the following tips can keep the happy couple celebrating wedded bliss for years to come.

Registry Basics
Before you and your sweetheart start scanning items for your registry, do your homework. Consider the size of your space and where you will store your new items. If you’re living in an apartment or smaller condominium, you may want to rethink registering for the super-deluxe size barbecue grill. You’ll be surprised how quickly your new gifts can fill up your space.
Next, think about your guest list. Make sure that you have a variety of items to choose from and at different price points — high and low — so guests can purchase items they feel reflect their own taste and that they can afford. Be sure to consider your out-of-town guests as well, by registering for items that are available both at nationwide locations and online, such as Target and Bed Bath & Beyond, to help ensure they can access your registries from anywhere.
Kitchen and Bath Registry Ideas and Necessities
Now that the registry basics are covered, the fun can begin. Start with the rooms that you live in and use the most — the kitchen and bathroom.
Do you like to host dinner parties? Fine china should be on your list. According to theknot.com, crisp black-and-white dinnerware patterns are all the rage this season. Find something that will not only match your taste and decor, but also be a classic design for years to come.
Want to skip the china, but love to cook? Register for a complete collection of high-end cookware. Stores, such as Sur La Table, offer cool cooking gadgets for the basic, well-stocked and gourmet kitchens alike.
In addition to registering for the mainstays in the kitchen, such as sterling silver flatware and crystal stemware, don’t forget about everyday items like measuring cups and spoons, a kitchen scale, electronic timers or even a microwave oven.
Love a spa feeling and want to re-create it in your bathroom at home? Then don’t settle for a plain, ordinary shower experience when you can create an invigorating one. Register for a new showerhead. Many new showerheads, such as the Enliven showerhead from Moen (available at Target), offer multiple settings that suit any mood — “Relaxing” wide spray, “Invigorating” concentrated spray and “Refreshing” combination spray. Available in fixed and handheld versions, both feature a spray selector, making it easy to change settings and keep you and your spouse singing in the shower.
Continue to create your spa-like, romantic atmosphere by registering for luxury bath towels and high-thread-count sheets. Other items to consider, both extravagant and necessary, include: a down comforter, feather bed, pillows, alarm clock with dual alarms and a closet organizer.

Beyond the Registry

If you and your significant other are looking for adventure instead of objects, why not create memories instead? Family and friends can help purchase items including your airfare, honeymoon suite or candlelit dinners at your vacation destination on sites such as www.honeymoonwishes.com or www.thebigday.com. Register for horseback riding or scuba diving adventures for you and your sweetheart to have memories that will last a lifetime.

Finding Inspiration

Still need help finding inspiration before registering? Retailers, such as Target, offer planning ideas and buying guides on their Web site by category to help get you started.
Recent, popular items to register for include:
• Luggage
• Tool kit
• Bagless vacuum or steam cleaner
• Patio furniture
• Ultra compact digital camera (to help capture memories of your special day and new life together)
Before taking the big walk down the aisle, make sure you’re prepared with necessities that will last long after saying “I do.”
For more information about the Enliven three-setting showerheads available at Target, visit moen.com, or call (800) BUY-MOEN.  Courtesy of ARAcontent

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