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Welcome to the world of registering, where you can get everything and anything you’ve ever wanted (and never knew you actually needed). When you have SO many options to choose from, it’s easy to get caught up in things that look awesome for the moment, but that might not really have a place in your home later on. So, what should you leave off your wedding registry list? Check out our handy roundup, below, along with our suggestions for what you should register for instead.
1. Holiday decor
While it’s fun to choose seasonal décor items for holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving (even Halloween), these things tend to be too underused for a wedding registry. In lieu of non-essential items, consider keeping the group gift component in mind. Though you’ll still want to include a wide range of prices, putting bigger ticket items (like a nice, comfy sofa) on your list that work for group gifting is a great way for guests to spend an amount they are comfortable with, instead of being forced to buy those reindeer plates you’ll use once a year!
2. Novelty kitchen gadgets
Most of us aren’t celeb chefs in disguise, so registering for novelty kitchen appliances isn’t always necessary. While things like milkshake makers, immersion blenders and roasting racks are great to have on hand in case you need them, they aren’t essentials. Instead, register for a great cookware set (also an awesome group gift item), and products like a multi-functional blender (for soups, juices, etc.). Even large appliances like a refrigerator are a good bet! Those are kitchen staples that will NEVER gather dust.
3. Trendy accessories
Trendy décor items are great to have, but who knows if you’ll like them 5-10 years down the road. Keeping your registry stocked with timeless items like picture frames, vases and catch-alls are a great way to ensure they’ll have a place in your home for a long time. You can always buy that trendy throw blanket later on!
4. Fine China
Registering for two dish sets (one fine china and one everyday set) takes up a lot of valuable space on your registry (and your cabinets!). Instead, consider registering for one really great, all-purpose dishware set that can be mixed and matched with tablecloths, napkins and other accessories for more formal dinners. We recommend a set of classic white, which lets you really show off your latest Ina Garten recipe!
5. Laundry day linens
While it’s nice to have a stockpile of sheets for days when you don’t feel like doing laundry right away, nothing beats getting into a bed made of crisp, luxe linens. Take the opportunity to add upgraded sheet sets, shams, and duvet covers to your registry (we recommend two sets per room). Trust us. You’ll feel like royalty whenever you slide into them, no matter what day it is.
6. Speciality electronics
With the exception of a great new TV (hello, fall binge-watching), and maybe a camera for some awesome
7. Lavish serveware
While we love ornate bowls and other serving pieces as much as the next person, we like reserving some purchases for when we travel to a special destination, like Italy! Having a memory associated with a fabulous bowl makes for great dinner party conversation. And while cereal storage containers and jars aren’t exactly the MOST interesting things you’ll add to your registry, they are definitely some of the most practical. Closet organizers, laundry bins and storage containers are way too often overlooked on wedding registries, but they can make such a difference when it comes to tidying up.
8. Flimsy flatware
You’re bound to host a holiday dinner one of these days, and when you do the last thing you want to do is have guests eat that perfectly cooked turkey and mashed potatoes with mismatched or casual flatware that is more meant to be used poolside than at the dining room table. Invest in a great flatware set now and you’ll use it forever.
9. Clunky knife sets
That knife block looks great, but it’s not ALWAYS necessary. Instead of a full set, choose a smaller one that includes key essentials. And don’t forget the carving set! You will use this way more than you think (hello, rotisserie chicken!).
10. Party gear
It’s definitely easy to get excited about margarita glasses and chip and dip platters, but those are all items that you can pick up as you need them. Instead, think bigger. If you have an outdoor patio, don’t be afraid to register for a grill. Think of all the fun you can have throwing parties in the summer! P.S. This is totally perfect for the group-gift option.
