One of the best parts of getting engaged (aside from getting to marry your sweetie, of course!) is setting up your wedding registry. You’re basically picking out a gift wish-list that includes everything you’d need to start your life together! Now if that sounds overwhelming, don’t worry. We’ve put together a handy list of the 10 items that are quintessential wedding registry choices – and for good reason.
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1. The Vacuum
Our Favorite: Dyson V6 Cord-free Vacuum, $250
OK, so some wedding registry essentials are less than glamourous. Case in point? Vacuums! However, we must admit the Dyson V6 Cord-free  is about as exciting as a vacuum can get. You can choose up to 3 tools attachments with your purchase, like a stiff bristle brush which is perfect for car cleaning or for getting rid of the hair your dog leaves trails of everywhere. Dare we say this could make cleaning a little more fun? (It’s a stretch…we know!)
2. The Ultimate Stand Mixer
Our Favorite: KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, $399.99
There are so many KitchenAid stand mixers to choose from, how do you even decide on the right one? We have to admit it took us awhile, but unless you’re in the business of baking dozens of cupcakes a day, the Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer will be more than enough. With over 20 color choices and fun attachments (like the 3-Piece Pasta Roller and Cutter Set for those times you get the urge to make homemade fettuccini), this will quickly become your best friend in the kitchen.
3. The Pot & Pan Set
Our Favorite: KitchenAid 5-Ply Stainless Steel Pots and Pan Set, $499
A great set of pots and pans is essential to pretty much any recipe. From nonstick to stainless steel there are countless sets, but it’s all about finding the right set for you. We’re impartial to stainless steel, but it’s important to shop in-person so you can test the handles and weight of each pan and make sure you’re ok with it. We love the Le Creuset Stainless Steel 10-Piece Set that includes a 10″ Fry Pan, 2-Quart Saucepan with Lid, 4-Quart Saucepan with Lid, 3-Quart Sauté Pan with Lid, 9-Quart Stockpot with Lid and Deep Colander Insert. It has a stay-cool handle and an aluminum core that heats up quickly. Plus, it’s a brand we know and love for its’ quality products.
4. Cast Iron Dutch Oven
Our Favorite: Le Creuset Round Casserole Dish, $285
Speaking of Le Creuset, their Signature Cast-Iron Oval Dutch Oven is our first pick for all your slow cooking needs. Be it Sunday night spaghetti and meatballs or a traditional roast, the functionality of these essential cookware tools will make any meal that much better. With over 16 colors to choose from, these kitchen gems are the perfect showpiece on your countertop (though we hope you put it to good use). We’re loving the new modern matte collection in colors like navy, amethyst or anchor grey.
5. The Carving Board
Our Favorite: Madeira Extra Large Carving Board, $80
You’re going to need a great cutting board for all those amazing Thanksgiving dinners. We recommend the Madeira Extra Large Carving Board, which is just as beautiful as it is functional. With three sizes to choose from, you can choose the one that best suits your cooking needs. We love how it’s created out of sustainably harvested walnut and that the edge-grain surface is super-durable. Just remember to oil any wood cutting board you buy so it keeps it’s smooth finish!
6. The Perfect Sheet Set
Our Favorite: Parachute Linen Venice Set, $470
Lazy Sunday mornings are the best, and they’re made even better by a bed you’ll never want to get out of. Though we adore all of the bedding from Parachute (and you can totally register for all of it), we definitely recommend the sheet sets. Our favorite? The Parachute Linen Venice Set which is BEYOND cozy.
7. Fine China
Our Favorite: Lenox Federal Gold 5-Piece Place Setting, $99
If you think you’ll be hosting a lot of formal dinners  (especially around the holidays), or you just love to take your everyday dining up a notch, consider registering for a set of fine china. You can pick a pattern that matches your dining room furnishings, or you can opt for a more neutral palette that will blend into any space down the road. The Federal Gold Dinnerware from Lenox is simple, elegant, and looks more expensive than it is. Tip: If you go with a plainer pattern you can always accent with printed serving pieces, chargers, and linens for a pop of color.
8. The Crystal Vase
Our Favorite: Orrefors Plaza Vase, $175
We hope your soon-to-be-spouse knows one of their responsibilities is to sporadically bring home a beautiful arrangement of flowers. For those, you’ll need a beautiful vase to display them in. We recommend registering for one special crystal vase that’s reserved for those flower deliveries. One that we love? The Orrefors Plaza Vase that has bold, geometrical angles and is perfect for long-stem roses. ☺ Plus, it’s a great accent piece that makes a statement all on its own.
9. The Picture Frame
Our Favorite: Olivia Riegel Duchess Frame, 8×10, $280
You know you’re going to fall in love with so many of your wedding photos, which is why it’s essential to register for a few picture frames to proudly display them in! While we recommend three in different sizes, it’s important to register for one exceptional 8×10 that’ll display your favorite photo. One of our favorite frames is the Olivia Riegel Duchess Frame in 8×10. It provides the perfect amount of sparkle, while still letting the picture really be the focus.
10. The Coffee Maker
Our Favorite: Nespresso De Longhi Lattissima Plus Espresso Maker, $399.95
We’re totally on-board if you want to register for a good ol’ coffee maker. But if you’re in the market for a super-intelligent espresso maker, we recommend registering for the Nespresso De Longhi Lattissima Plus Espresso Maker. It basically does everything for you (except, you know, fold your laundry), and can create brewed espresso, cappuccinos and lattes in just a few minutes. Guests will think you’re a trained barista!
