Now as you may now know, I rocked as a Bridal Consultant for Bed, Bath, and Beyond for years!!! Yes, years! And surprisingly I still shop there... and I still like weddings. I wanted to clear up some things and help you out with your own registry because I know it can be terrifying and overwhelming... not here! Today we are going to discuss what you should be registering for...

What to Register For:

Now, I don’t want to say go crazy, but go crazy!!! I would pick out 3-4 things for each guest and that can add up! You don’t want anyone to be left without a gift, trust me your guests like having that list! I would say get the stuff you want and need first, new cookware, knives, kitchen gadgets, kitchen appliances...and if you already own lots of stuff think of upgrading! You would be absolutely shocked how much people spend! But I think when registering for expensive sets of cookware or knives, you should register for the set and for the individual separate pieces, so that if a guest wants to buy a single piece they will have the opportunity. Don’t forget the boring stuff like baking sheets, muffin tins, loaf pans, peeler, can opener, etc... it stinks when you realize hey, I need that!! Oh and whatever you do, get a salad spinner they are genius! Also, don’t be afraid to register for things like pillows and comforters, people will buy them! People buy the weirdest freaking things! I can’t stress that enough!

You can check out Triple B’s website for an awesome list to guide you while registering. http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/regchecklist.asp?order_num=-1  This list is a bit overwhelming, but it always helps to have guidelines. If that list makes you bust out into hives, try writing your own using it as a guideline. And yes, the quantities are freaking insane!!!

My quick list of realistic quantities:

All Dinnerware(this applies to linens, stemware, and flatware): At least 6, 8 is ideal... if you entertain a bunch then 10

Bedding: I would only ask for 2 pillows, 1 comforter, 2 separate sets of sheets, and perhaps 1 throw blanket.

Bathroom: Okay, you do not need any bath-sheets they cost an exorbitant amount of money and will only be purchased if you are a rich kid. I would say 6 is an appropriate number for towel sets, but 4 is the absolute minimum. Trust me you will wish you had more.

China or No?

As a former bridal consultant, I would say everyone needs china, but the truth is you don’t, but if you think that you are ever going to want it ever... than register for it! You are never going to want to shell out the thousands of dollars to buy it yourself! The advantage to buying bone china is that it is freaking durable, seriously, this stuff is strong and it technically should last you a really long time. I am a fan of buying suuuuper simple patterns that are dishwasher safe. Yes, they make china that can go in the dishwasher! Sweet!!!! Now, if you don’t get china, at least register for a nice set of dishes, that will last you. Try a stoneware or earthenware that is dishwasher and microwave safe. I am a fan of white plates! I have two sets, round and square... and it’s true I have never used my china ;) maybe one day.

Other Options: If you are really against a registry you can set up a website where people can donate towards your future home, honeymoon, wedding expenses or whatever...Check out Morgan’s post a while back on What to get the wedding couple that has everything If you don’t want gifts at all, set up a site so that guests can donate to your favorite charity...but know Great Aunt Sarah is still going to buy you an ugly crystal vase.

I hope these posts have helped in some little way because I really do understand how overwhelming this process can be. Try and enjoy yourself! Presents are fun ;)

Lauren