Wedding registry essentials — a checklist of basic items for your wedding gift list

Are you on the hunt for wedding registry ideas? You've come to the right place! The Wedding Shop has thousands of presents to explore, from homewares and funds to experiences. To help you get started, we've put together a list of essential gifts to add. 

Each wedding registry is unique, and what makes a present one of the best wedding gifts is in the eye of the beholder. But these gift ideas are staple items for many couples, and may prompt you to think about the everyday things you enjoy and how your gift list can elevate them. If you love movie nights, why not add a comfy sofa to your gift list (that you can both finally sprawl out on together)? Or go big and use your gift list to fund your dream honeymoon. We're here to ensure your wedding gift list can be as creative as you are! So without further ado, let's get started with our essential wedding registry ideas.

Let's start with the Kitchen. Every home needs a go-to collection of cookware. Whether you're an aspiring chef or prefer simple one-pot wonders, excellent quality cookware will make the task instantly more enjoyable. For this reason, cookware is first up on our essential wedding gift list.

You can't go wrong with iconic brands such as Le Creuset, Staub, KitchenAid and Prestige. But we've also thrown in some innovative brands whose reputation is well-worth shouting about. GreenPan, a pioneer of healthy ceramic non-stick coating, has a range of excellent-quality cookware that will serve you well. ScanPan is another brand leading the way in sustainable cookware. Made in Denmark, ScanPan has been designing cookware for over 60 years, inspired by a love for food.

Okay, so you have the cookware you need. What about kitchen gadgets? Kitchen gadgets are the ultimate gifts to make daily cooking tasks effortless. Think about your daily cooking routines and the gifts you can add to make these jobs easier. If you love baking, a KitchenAid stand mixer will be invaluable. Or, if you prefer your water to be filtered and preferably bubbly, a SodaStream sparkling water maker might be your saviour.

So, you've cooked up a storm: now it's time to set the table! If you're hoping to inject style into your everyday dining routine, tableware is the category to explore. This traditional wedding gift idea is far from boring. 

While a brand new cutlery set might not initially make you leap with joy, upgrading the homewares we use daily can have a considerable impact. For example, a lasting set of cutlery and matching dinnerware can make mealtime feel considered and more meaningful. It's also an excellent excuse to set the table and enjoy quality time with your nearest and dearest.

Another important aspect of your tableware is glassware. Adding glassware to your gift list will guarantee you can celebrate your newly married life in style. We're thinking champagne coupes, gin goblets, and crystal-cut whisky glasses. You can even upgrade your everyday drinkware to something as beautiful as it is practical.

If you've ever been to a luxury spa or hotel, chances are you'll remember the irresistibly soft feeling of its towels and bedding. Sumptuously soft towels and luxury bedding are one of life's finer pleasures. Pop some on your Wedding Shop gift list and you can enjoy this pleasure in the comfort of your own home! Your gift list is the perfect opportunity to create a spa-like experience in your day-to-day life. Speaking of which, these are the most added bed and bath wedding registry essentials from The Wedding Shop.

Would you like to use your wedding registry to transform your garden space? Whether patio, balcony or large garden, there are many ways to make your outdoor space a sanctuary to be enjoyed throughout the seasons. Consider bistro tables and loungers, perfect for soaking up the sun. Fairy lights and lanterns embrace the summer party spirit and make darker nights feel a little more dazzling. Weather-proof soft furnishings will leave you warm and cosy too. Here are our best garden wedding gift ideas.

Furniture is an essential gift for many couples, especially if you're using your wedding registry to help set you up in a new home together. You can add larger furniture pieces (like beds and dining tables) or smaller items such as a bar trolley. And don't forget, The Wedding Shop's group gifting feature allows multiple guests to contribute towards one item. So you can add higher-priced presents to your gift registry without expecting one guest to foot the whole bill!

Because what is a home without artwork and decor? Art is not only a great way to inject some personality into your home. It can also pull an interior scheme together! We've teamed up with East End Prints to offer a unique collection of graphic prints. Or, if you're after contemporary and visually striking artworks, why not add prints from Paper Collective? From limited edition prints and original artwork to 3D wall art, The Wedding Shop has a fantastic selection of art from brands that work collaboratively with their artists.

Home fragrance is another ever-popular wedding gift, and it's not hard to see why. Walking into a space filled with fresh scents can make a world of difference to your mood. Home fragrance invites us in, ignites memories, and creates an atmosphere that makes you want to stay. Escape to the windswept shore with Jo Malone London's Wood Sage & Sea Salt candle. Or, instantly lift your mood with Neom Organics London's Scent To Make You Happy, a blend of  7 essential oils, including white neroli, woody mimosa and zingy lemon.

Modern gift lists like The Wedding Shop allow couples to mix products and funds with experiences. Experience gifts are the perfect way for guests to help you build unforgettable memories, from scuba diving lessons and cookery classes to luxurious spa retreats. They're ideal wedding gifts for couples that have everything. You can even add unique honeymoon experiences or create a personal honeymoon fund. Couples can also add homewares designed for travel, from stylish luggage to trendy travel accessories. Take a look!

Your wedding gift list is about investing in your life together as a newly married couple. These wedding gift ideas have been carefully considered to celebrate you! From date night gift ideas to romantic getaways, these are the wedding presents best enjoyed together. So last, but certainly not least, be inspired by our favourite gifts to spark joy and build memories together.