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It is a pretty common story these days to have a couple getting married that already has one or perhaps two households’ worth of stuff to combine. They are left wondering to themselves, “what to register for if you have everything?”
Let’s take a stab at wedding registry ideas for couples who have everything already, shall we?
First off, in some places and cultures, not registering will result in cash gifts, which may be what you would like anyway. However, for many, that won’t work, you’ll end up with six cut crystal picture frames and a collection of mismatched hand towels.
This guide is quite long, and even comes with a FREE Printable Registry Checklist for Grown Ups. That’s what we’ve nicknamed this huge list of what to register for when you already have everything.
How to Choose What to Register for if You Have Everything
Now hang in there with me, I know that you will have some of the suggestions on this list already, but remember that not everyone else will, and one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to buying stuff!
Make a huge list with all your consumer hopes and dreams on it as a starting point, if you are really struggling to come up with things.
You may also find yourself needing to add more things to your wedding gift registry, perhaps after a bridal shower. If you are feeling guilty about putting a $500 Vitamix blender on the list, put it on for now, you may find that you only have two very expensive things on your list at the end of the day.
That, or you may find that Great Aunt Berta comes out of the woodwork and offers to buy you a $1000 wedding gift that you never saw coming; trust me, it happens!
Use this as an opportunity to sort through your junk treasures. Yes, I know that you’re busy and wedding planning takes up a lot of time, but consider using this as a respite from all of that.
Tackle one little piece per day, or per week. Many people say they feel better when their homes are decluttered, so use that as motivation.
Household Items That You Want Upgraded
Step one is to go through your things and decide which ones you want to upgrade, even if you don’t think there is anything, you can probably find some things. Just because you have perfectly fine towels you bought at Walmart a few years ago, doesn’t mean you can’t register for delightful, new, high end towels.
Just make sure to donate, repurpose or recycle as much as possible that you are upgrading – your camping gear will be happy with your old stuff!
Kitchen Gadget Upgrades
Look at all of your kitchen utensils, for example, and count the melted spatulas. Add two heat-resistant spatulas to your list and keep going.
Do you worry about your potato masher breaking when you use it? Add one to the list, or add a fancy electric potato masher doodad. You can also use this as an opportunity to clean out your drawers and cupboards, just dump out the contents, wipe the drawer down, and evaluate the items as you put them back in. Tomorrow evening, do another drawer or cupboard.
The kitchen is a pretty easy place to start, because each cupboard or drawer is a nice, contained, bite-sized chunk. If you have mastered the kitchen, check out your front closet (shoe racks, nice hangers, cute storage bins, scarf racks), your linen closet, your sports or camping gear, your living room and if you’re feeling brave, under your bathroom sinks.
General Tips on What to Register for if You Have Everything
Keep Your Own Wants and Values in Mind
For example, do not bend to the pressure to register for formal china if you know that you will never use it.
Put Off Purchasing Things Before the Wedding
If there are (non-wedding!) things that you want to buy between now and the wedding, if you can hold out, add them to your registry instead of purchasing them for yourself.
Ask for Small, High Value, Durable Items
If space is the reason you don’t want a three section croc-pot, stick to registering for smaller items that will last a lifetime, like silverware, watches, or a sterling silver menorah.
Ask for Lifestyle-fitting Gifts
Think about what you like to do with your time. If you like going out to restaurants, ask for restaurant gift cards. If you’re into artwork, pick out some pieces you would like to add to your collection. You could ask for the moorage fees for your boat, wine of the month club membership, CSA food boxes, craft beer collections, bed and breakfast stays, you name it!
The Price Point Problem
You will still need a list that includes gift ideas at a variety of price points. If you are really struggling, consider using a registry that lets people contribute toward certain items, so that you can get the new mattress set you truly need.
Shower Gifts
You can overcome this because other people are giving direction on gifts, not you. Gift Card Showers, or date night kits are great gift themes to ask your host about.
Biggify
Ah, the fluidity of language which lets me write such things. Does your George Foreman grill only work for one person, maybe two? Biggify it and get another one. Single-serve croc pot? Biggify. Small rice cooker? Biggify.
Alternative Registries
There are now a boatload of alternative registries out there, where you can register for honeymoon activities and funds, house downpayments, local shops, portions of things, charities and more.
Wedding Stuff
There is a lot of etiquette information available on this online, and tread carefully, but if you have friends who would do you favours, offer their services or lend a hand for your wedding, ask if they would be willing to do so, in lieu of a gift; for example, lending you their big tent, doing the flower arranging, chauffeuring your elderly relatives around town, acting as DJ, decorating the cake, etc.
They do not necessarily have to be professional things that they do, but services you may end up paying someone else to perform.
What to Register for if You Have Everything
At this point, you should be armed with a list of your consumer wants and dreams, what you discovered while doing a walk through of your house, and what you decided could be chucked while cleaning and sorting through your house.
What does the list look like? I hope you found more than ten things! That’s your starting point.
Now, here is a big idea list, along with some commentary, of registry ideas
Be creative, and remember that one size does not fit all!
Use these ideas as a springboard to more, and please share your ideas in the comments, they will help even more people out. Please do read the whole list, as putting things into categories proved to be a bit tricky!
Household Goods & Appliances
Garment Steamer
Handy to have for all kinds of reasons, not just if you frequently wear formal clothing. These are great for getting wrinkles out of work clothes, curtains, and delicates.
Good Iron
Even if you have a garment steamer you’ll also want to keep a good iron on hand. I know in this day and age not very many pieces need ironing but when you need to use it, and don’t have one, you’ll be upset you didn’t add this to your registry.
Large Appliance
Things like a Deep Freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, refrigerator, stove, microwave, etc all work in this category. Register for what you need, you never know!
Wine Fridge
Where do you keep at those bottles of wine you got for shower and wedding gifts? Hopefully in your new wine fridge! Put it on the registry.
Meat Smoker
Foodies and hunters will love this one, especially if you already have everything you can possibly need. Also register for some smoke flavors!
Greenhouse
You can get all kinds of greenhouses now that fit in yards of all sizes – and even indoors.
Composter
These are so cool and a great way to cut back on food waste. You don’t have to be a gardener to appreciate this one either; it’s just a great way to be more eco-concious.
Underground Sprinkler System
Register for the gift of time, which can come in many forms – including a sprinkler system that can be buried underground.
Garage Storage System
If you have a garage these are so handy to keep gear and other household items organized and accessible.
Gun/Money Safe
Not a typical registry item, sure, but an essential one for a lot of folks. Hunters and marksman may want to register for a gun safe, but every household needs a fireproof safe to keep essential documents.
Exercise Equipment
This could be anything: Weight Set, Treadmill, Shake Weight (obviously)… You get the idea. It’s not something people would normally get but if you register for fitness equipment guests will realize they can buy from this category too.
BBQ/Grill
Even if you have one the wedding might be a nice time to request an upgrade. Or ask for a second style, like charcoal if you already have a gas bbq.
Garbage Cans/Recycling Centers
These are really nice for keeping the unsightly parts of your home and yard clean and tidy.
Portable Air Conditioner
If you don’t have central air conditioning these things are the best! You can install them pretty much anywhere without fuss and they actually do a great job of getting things cooled.
Wall Clock
In a world where digital clocks are everywhere it’s nice to have a wall clock in your home too.
Key Rack
These are a great little addition to your entryway. For your registry ask for something a little nicer than a typical hook like this mini handmade shelf.
Clothes Hangers
Wooden Hangers, or those No Slip Hangers are all great options. Especially if your current collection is a bunch of mis-matched ones!
Storage Stuff
Think the Container Store, IKEA, under your bed, at the top of your closet, in your kitchen cupboards, in your garage, etc!
Filing Cabinet
Another one of those things that you don’t always think of buying but will definitely appreciate, a filing cabinet (along with files and labels) is a great wedding registry addition. It’s also shocking how much these cost!
Kegerator
If you like to entertain or have a home bar this one’s for you! There are different size options depending on how much beer you enjoy and how you’ll use it so do your reserach a bit before registering.
Eco Printer
These are so good! Finally a printer that you can invest in once and only once. While we usually have everything digital now I still find I use my printer often enough that it’s worth having.
Area Rugs
Big, small, and everything in between. Area rugs are a great registry item – welcome mats are even trending on registries right now.
Air Purifier
So nice to have when there’s allergies in the home or just to make your house feel fresher.
Humidifier
Even if the weather isn’t super dry in your area a humidifier is a must have during cold and flu season. Doubly so if you’re planning to have kids with your new spouse.
Tools and Home Maintenance
Shop Vacuum
You won’t know how much you were missing a shop vac until you have one, trust me. Great for getting anything you don’t want to put in your vacuum, but also essential if you have water coming in.
Mini Chainsaw
These are good for small projects and trimming trees. Tip: get one on a pole so you can get those hard to reach branches without a ladder.
Circular Saw (or Another Saw You Want)
I find the circular saw to be a practical must have, but if you already own one you can also register for a table saw, jigsaw, tile saw, etc. depending on your DIY goals.
Air Compressor
A lot of tools are powered by an air compressor so this is a truly multi-purpose one to register for.
Tool Box or Tool Chest
Where are you going to store all your new tools? Plus this welcomes the chance for the giver to make a cute gift basket, which I promise they’ll appreciate.
Upgrade Your House
New Flooring
Kind of an odd registry item but you can absolutely ask for it, or for a gift card towards it. If you’re planning to redo a small space then you could register for a few boxes of nice tile (or even peel and stick).
Kitchen Faucet
Time for an upgrade! Maybe one that matches the kitchen better, has more features, or is touchless?
Light Fixtures
These are another nice upgrade. If you want to make your guests feel like they’re getting a “real” wedding gift consider new chandeliers and other “fancy” lighting.
Doors
I can’t believe how expensive doors are! Register for new ones around your home, but especially the front door, patio doors, or “fancy” doors like barn doors.
Electric Fireplace Insert
If you don’t have a place for the insert you an also register for a wall-mounted electric fireplace instead.
Nest Thermostat
These are so nice to have because you can set the temperature remotely from your phone.
Linens and Bedding
Matching Bath Robes
Start your marriage looking bougie with your partner. They can even be monogrammed! Note: include information about your initials, especially in regards to after-wedding name changes. Most folks will assume the “traditional” which may not be right for your family.
New Pillows
Time to ask for those memory foam or down filled filled pillows you haven’t had the heart to splurge on.
Beach Towels
Another item that is shockingly expensive. I like the cabana style ones – they make it feel like I’m on vacation.
Throw Blankets
Throw blankets are a fun registry item because they can be as cheap or expensive as you want. You can add some budget options for folks who can’t splurge on a big gift or to add to gift baskets, or use your wedding as an excuse to finally wrap yourself up in cashmere.
Bath Mat
Love this as a wedding gift! Ask for something that fits your style or provide a few ideas and let your guest surprise you.
Laundry Drying Rack
Even if you have a dryer these are nice to keep on hand for delicates or to save electricity on a sunny day.
Kitchen Appliances & Expensive Items
Excalibur Dehydrator
A dehydrator can be used to preserve all kinds of foods and make some pretty tasty snacks.
New Dishes and Silverware
Weddings are a great time to get new items for your home! to make it easy on your guests ask for a set.
China or Porcelain Dinnerware
This is, of course, a traditional wedding gift but so many folks now forget to register for these items. What’s nice about a china set is guests can all contribute to the pattern so you have a variety of budget options covered.
Pots and Pans
We often wind up with mismatched pots and pans when we’re just starting out so this is a great way to get proper (and complete) set.
Knife Sharpener
To sharpen those knives! If you have a good quality set this will them at their best.
Fondue Pot
Channeling the 70s here! Actually, fondue pots are back in style. I mean really, who doesn’t love the idea of a party where you dip things in cheese?
Raclette
This grill is for making raclette style meals and can melt individual vats of cheese. Kind of like a fondue in many ways.
Enameled Cast Iron
I swear by these in my kitchen and recommend them for every wedding registry. You can use them in so many ways: stovetop, oven, slow roasting, serving… And they last forever so it’s a great investment.
Trendy Small Appliances
Get a new kettle, toaster, toaster oven, coffee maker, etc that looks great on your counter or matches your kitchen’s style. Weddings are a great time to ask for something you want but otherwise wouldn’t splurge on!
Espresso Maker
If you don’t want a full on espresso maker what about a Stovetop Espresso Maker or a Nespresso?
Coffee Grinder
A good grinder can run several hundred dollars so a wedding is a great way to get one.
Keurig & Accessories
These are still popular especially for busy people. If you already have one ask for accessories or pods instead.
Sodastream
If you enjoy sparkling water this is a game changer. Not only will you save money it’s more eco-friendly too.
Speciality Appliances
Waffle Maker, Deep Fryer, Ice Cream Maker, Panini Press, George Foreman Grill, Creme Brulee Torch… You get the idea. If there’s something that would make life easier or more fun, add it!
Crock Pot
A household staple! If you don’t already have one, or yours is too small/super old, add one of these to your registry.
Air Fryer
Maybe you’re less into tradition and more into trends. It does seem like air fryers are here to say – they’re a great appliance.
Vacuum Bag Sealer
These help prevent food from spoling as easy in the freezer and are great for saving space.
Kitchen Smaller Stuff
Cookbooks
Even though everything is online now it’s still nice to have cookbooks to browse. Make sure you’re specific with your requests if you like a certain type of food.
Nesting Containers
Space saving versions of your favorite kitchen items are great candidates to get upgraded. Or add some kitchenware you don’t already have!
Specialty Cookware
Wok, Cast Iron Pans (there is a huge variety, including Bacon Presses, Muffin Tins, Loaf Pans and more), Stock Pot, Tagine, Clay Baker, Griddle, Pizza Stone
Mortar and Pestle
You’ll use this more than you think once you get it. Handy for everything from cooking to cocktails.
Mandoline Slicer
So much easier than trying to chop things thinly with a kitchen knife. Make sure to ask for a good one; quality matters with slicers.
Individual Casserole Dishes
Ask for a variety of sizes – you never know what you might need for a dish.
Chip Bag Clips
Little items like this are nice registry additions for folks putting together gift baskets. Ask for something fancy, though – it’s a wedding after all.
Good Steak Knives
Most people don’t have a good set of steak knives, especially when they’re starting out.
Specific Region or Purpose Culinary Gadgets
ie Bamboo Steamers, Sushi Mats, Indian Serving Dishes, Lobster and Crab Tools, Egg Cups, Cookie Cutters, Crumpet Rings, Tava Pan, Yogurt Maker, Pudding Basin, Potato Ricer, Halogen Oven, Cookie Press, Gnocchi Board, Crepe Pan, Sprouting Tower, Burger Press, Juicer, Spiralizer, Pasta Roller, Cake Pop Maker, Bento Molds, Ravioli Mold, Cheese Strainer, Cheese Mold, French Onion Soup Bowls, Pierogi Mold.
Pressure Canner
This isn’t for everyone but if you like to garden and want to start canning your food this is a must.
Tasting Set for Drinks
You can get these tasting sets or flights for wine, beer, whiskey, and all kinds of other drinks. If you’ve always wanted one of these at home add it to the list!
Table Linens and Accesories
Napkins, Placemats, Napkin Holder, Napkin Rings, Table Runners – whatever you need.
Candle Holders
Practical but also a beautiful addition to your home. Ask for something that really jumps out as “you”.
Pottery
Serving Ware, Dishes, Display Pieces – opt for handmade if you can find it.
Canning Equipment
A beginner kit will come with everything you need to get started and make wedding gift shopping easy for a guest, too.
Resuable Produce Bags
Eco friendly and pretty, too. Another smaller addition people will love bundling with something else.
Furniture
Patio Furniture
You can register for a large set that folks can contribute to or a bunch of smaller pieces. Don’t forget rugs, pillows, umbrellas, covers, etc too.
Mattress, Bed and Bedroom Set
Instead of gifts ask guests to contribute to a large purchase that you can really enjoy as a marriage couple: a new bedroom set.
Couches or Recliners
Another big purchase that people can contribute to, this is a great gift if you have everything but would really enjoy an upgrade.
Bar Stools
So many people buy new houses but never get bar stools because they’re so expensive. Sounds like you? Put it on the registry.
TV Stand
Always nice to get an upgrade, especially since it’s your living room’s centerpiece most of the time.
Shelving Units
Don’t forget big storage bins to go on the shelves, or storage bins for under your bed.
Shoe Racks
Get that clutter under control! You could also ask for some nice storage pieces for your entryway.
Valet
A custom one can make a really nice wedding gift. Use it to hold keys by the door or to rest your rings in when you’re not wearing them.
Wine Rack
A custom wine rack with your family’s last name or wedding date would be nice if you’re a wine drinker. Chances are you’ll be gifted wine over your various wedding events so it’s a perfect place to store and display a few bottles.
Lamps
Lamps are a great addition everywhere in your home and not something peopel think about buying as often as they should.
Bar Cart
If you don’t have a home bar (or even if you do, really) there are SO many nice bar carts out there now. Add one to your registry!
Sporting and Outdoors
Camping Gear
Things like tents, stoves, sleeping bags, mattress pads, water purifier, backpacks, etc all make great gifts.
A Canoe or Kayak and Paddles (or kayaks)
Another great “big” gift, if you’re an outdoorsy couple this might be the perfect excuse to get a 2 person kayak. How romantic.
Surfboard
For the adventurous types. If this is your hobby your friends already know this will be a great gift.
Golf Clubs
If you already have a set you can ask for Green Fees (games or seasons, buckets of balls)
Gardening Stuff
Things like seeds, tools, soil, fertilizer, pots, bulbs, watering cans will be a nice addition. People might even make gift baskets with all this stuff. Score!
Roof Cargo Rack
Make sure you specify what you’re looking for or your vehicle in case they decide to go off registry.
Propane Tank
If you like to spend time outside there’s so many places you might need this. The grill… Camper… And so on. Ask for a nice one that has a guarantee.
Bird Feeder
Landscaping Supplies
Shrubs and such – A yard of cedar mulch, mature trees, a gazebo, flowering bushes
Hobbies
Pets
Dog Beds and Dog Crates
Consumables and Tickets
Wine of the Month Club
Other of the month clubs are fun too if you don’t drink wine!
Start a Wine Cellar
Car Wash Gift Certificates
Tickets
Theatre tickets, attraction tickets, gym memberships – read this post for lots of ticket ideas!
Entertainment and Lifestyle
Lessons
cooking, yoga, art, sword making, pottery, jewelry making, sailing, massage, etc!
Collector Items
Are you both Star Wars fanatics? Do you have a collection that could rival the Big Bang Theory? Add to it, if you will love it. Chances are your equally-obsessed friends will jump all over these items, while your Uncle remains extremely perplexed.
Date Night Kit
- Tours of your own town
- Photobook gift cards – for the wedding and for your honeymoon
- Library membership
- Winery membership
- State/Provincial/National park pass
Seasonal and/or Religious
Personalized Wooden Cross
Burial plot
totally weird suggestion, I know, but useful.
Services and Subscriptions
- Lawn care
- Pool care
- Cleaning service
- Car detailing
- Snow Shoveling
- Window Washing
- Furnace Tune-up
- Baby sitting
- Will writing – you likely need a new one, now that you’re getting married.
- Fee-for-service Financial Adviser
- Income Tax accountant
- Netflix or similar subscription
- Amazon Prime membership
- Car Share membership
- Bixi Bike Membership, etc.
- Magazine Subscriptions
- Race and event entry fees
- Photographer credit – for your photo album
Whew! That Was a Lot of Ideas – Get the Printable Checklist
It turns out that there are nine, yes NINE entire pages of ideas. Three columns wide, even.
We threw in some places for you to add your own, too. You can use this checklist to keep track of things that you want, how many, and when you have added it to a registry.
When Great Aunt Betty goes and buys every single piece of china, you’ll be ready with your B list gifts, and can tick off when you’ve added them.