Fine china, stand mixers, and sheets with high thread counts are the mainstays of most bridal registries, but don't feel confined to the usual items. Many stores also offer a vast array of other options too -- some for your home, and others that simply make life more enjoyable. The possibilities may seem endless, so start by considering your lifestyle. Love camping together? Add some colorful lanterns and a cozy tent for two to your list. Buying a new house with a front porch? You might want a pair of hammock chairs for lazy Saturday afternoons. Whether you choose gifts that are strictly for fun or go for more practical household items, here are a few of our favorite unexpected registry ideas.
Fire It Up: Barbecue Grill
Let the newlywed kicks continue by spending your first summer -- and every summer to come -- lounging in the backyard serving burgers and lemonade to all your friends. Not only will your new grill be the center for hours of entertaining, it'll be one of your favorite new toys.
Pack Pretty: Luggage
Who likes to spend money on suitcases and bags? Let your friends and family shell out for the stylin' new carryalls you'll need for your honeymoon -- and that you'll use long after. Find ones that coordinate and then have them monogrammed.
Make Music: Speakers for your MP3 Player
Fill the whole house with the sounds of your favorite tunes and spend your time at home jamming together. Some high-quality speakers for your MP3 player can deliver a huge sound in a tiny (and cute!) package.
Remember This: Digital Camera
It's probably time for an upgrade anyway, since new models come out every year -- and what better time to splurge on a moment-capturing apparatus than now? It'll come in handy on your
honeymoon when you pose for some of your first pictures as newlyweds.
Express Yourself: Wall Art
Don't neglect the walls in your newlywed abode. Now is the perfect time to choose a smattering of prints, mirrors, photographs, and frames that'll fill your rooms with tons of personality.
Make Time to Play: Games
Register for a bocce set, a badminton set, a pool table, a Ping-Pong table, a croquet set, tennis rackets, a basketball hoop, a volleyball net, or any other game that'll guarantee a fun-filled weekend afternoon.
Clean Up: Vacuum
While not the most exciting of gifts, these little suckers can cost quite a chunk of change. Add a high-quality one to your registry so you don't have to spring for one later.
Put on the Pressure: Iron
This is another gift that may not quite make your heart patter, but that you'll be grateful for when you only have two minutes to iron a shirt. Register for a top model that'll be a laundry-room staple for years.
Get Things Cookin': Gourmet Gadgets
Cooking contraptions like an ice cream maker, a pasta machine, a popcorn popper, a bread maker, a panini press, and a creme brulee torch can keep things interesting in the kitchen. Having new and fun culinary gadgets is not only useful, they can even inspire a so-so chef to try a new dish.
Make a Good Match: Home Accessories
If your living room needs attention, don't hold back. Fresh linen curtains, flokati rugs, bulging glass lamps, and solid wood bookshelves are all fair picks for outfitting your new home together.
-- Alison Alfandre
See More: Registering for Wedding Gifts