Your big day is looming, and there are so many things to organize. Caterers, the band, the dress, the venue, the list goes on and on. In all that hectic activity, it is easy to forget that this is also a day on which you don’t have to feel guilty about being spoiled with gifts. For some couples, a bridal registry is little more than an afterthought. Keep in mind, however, that your family friends are all eager to share in your joy and help you get off to a perfect start in your lives together as a married couple. They will genuinely appreciate your letting
They will genuinely appreciate your letting them know what you truly want and need so that they can do just that. Here are a few practical ideas that may want to consider including:
Kitchen Confidential
Kitchen items such as cookware, high-quality knives and utensils or appliances are always a great option. As you settle into a new home and lifestyle with your spouse, the kitchen is likely to become the heart of your home. Your guests will be delighted to set you up with the right tools and be even more thrilled if you invite them over for dinner to sample the end-product!
A Couple of Sandwiches Short
While it is tempting to go for purely practical items or big ticket electronics, it’s worth remembering that romance can and should continue, even after you are married. Including items such as a deluxe picnic basket or cozy picnic blanket will give you the perfect excuse to head out to the countryside for a romantic afternoon.
Grill it Up
If you and your spouse like to entertain, then a good quality barbecue is a great idea that many people would never think to include on a registry list. A good grill will last you for years and will help to make your home a place that friends and family will love to come to socialize all year round.
Joy of Java
Coffee is a pretty central part of our life at home, and I’m sure that many of you can relate. Morning coffee with my husband once we have sent the kids off to school and before he leaves for the office is one of our most treasured rituals. We still have the beautiful coffee maker that a close friend bought us for our wedding all those years ago and it continues to give us joy. There are plenty of options out there, so choose one that you will both like and use for the long haul.
Picture Perfect
My husband and I made the grave error of leaving picture frames off our bridal list and heartily regretted it. We managed to scrape to afford prints of our wedding photos, but they lay around for ages before we could afford decent frames for them. Ensure you have tasteful, elegant frames in the sizes you want and you will be all set to go.
Experience the Love
Many online registries now offer experience gifts as a novel option. What better way to treat yourselves after the stress of the wedding, than with a romantic hot air balloon ride, day spa treatment or other adventure that tickles your fancy.
Your wedding is all about joining your lives together and celebrating your love with the people that mean the most to you. While the gifts might be just an added extra, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t make the most of them and ensure that you have things that you will love and use for years.
