This upcoming three-day weekend gives me more than one reason to smile: With only nine months to go until the big day, we can finally go to Bloomingdale's and start our wedding registry! Although having a two-year engagement can be beneficial, it also comes with one big disadvantage—WAITING. From the moment Mike proposed, I wanted to dive into all things wedding-related, but I was forced to pace myself. I used this waiting period to reflect on which items are essential to my registry and which ones I could do without.
I originally thought I wanted to register for a KitchenAid 5-Quart Artisan Stand Mixer. This item seems to have its own fan base, making its way onto countless registries. At first, I was content to follow the crowd, but ultimately realized that I have no use for this gadget. Do I find it pretty? Yes, I adore the ruby red color. However, I had to ask myself: Is it worth the counter space when my baking skills consist of combining box mix, eggs, water and vegetable oil? I'm going to go with no.
I decided my two must-have gadgets are the Cuisinart Griddlerand the Cuisinart Multicooker. I absolutely love the idea of being able to grill indoors (besides, who doesn’t love a good panini?). The Multicooker was a no-brainer for me as well. Still to this day, I become ecstatic when I hear my mother is preparing something for the slow cooker—the meat is just so tender and juicy!
In addition to these gadgets, I am THRILLED to pick out our china. Although I've had plenty of time to contemplate, I have yet to select a pattern (stay tuned for my follow-up post next week). Since Mike and I have yet to purchase our home, I want to ensure that the pattern I select is versatile and will look great in several different spaces. I've decided that I want the pattern to be unique and eye-catching, yet neutral.
Although I am not 100% certain which items will make the cut, Mike and I are definitely registering at Bloomingdale's and Bed, Bath and Beyond. We decided to purchase our china at the former once we read about the perks: Couples get a 10% discount on items they purchase from their registry within the six months following the wedding and 20% off on dresses, fine jewelry, intimates, and men's purchases valid through their occasion date. We are going to purchase our everyday essentials at BBB (think bath towels, plates, glasses, etc.) and select some decorative items as well (I love the Kate Spade New York Gardner Street 5X7” Frame).
Check back in the next few weeks to see which items made it into our registry list!
Crista asks: What were your wedding registry must-haves?
—Crista Camerlengo
Crista Camerlengo is a real bride and the co-founder of Style She Wrote, who will tie the knot in July 2012 with Michael, her fiancé of six years. This chic NYC couple describes their wedding style as “modern romance"—fitting for a pair who had their first date at a quaint seaport and became engaged in the same spot, overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge. This fashion-forward blogger loves to infuse her traditional taste with unexpected contemporary accents.
