In the fantasy version of registering for wedding gifts, it’s you, your S.O., and a blissfully carefree experience (cue: movie montage scenes of couples swanning around and beeping products at whim). But in real life, it’s more like being struck with decision paralysis, compounded by an inexplicable sense of urgency and fear of possible judgment, resulting in a haphazardly slapped-together list of random items you probably don’t need — especially if you already live with your significant other — or won’t ever use.
So what should you be looking for? Investment items that you’ll not only cherish forever but which will actually last forever. In other words, faultlessly designed products crafted from materials of the highest quality that promise to take up permanent residence in your life — and Bloomingdale’s has an inventory of such items. There are eternally timeless white porcelain dinner plates by Bernardaud. There’s a 10-piece stainless-steel cookware set from All-Clad that’s superior to anything else on the market. And there’s a marble cheeseboard from Michael Aram that will serve as the most ideal backdrop to all your future charcuterie endeavors.
If you’re still waffling, Bloomingdale’s also has registry consultants who can guide you every step of the way (as well as a couple other features worth noting: a registry perks card for 20% off dresses, suiting, intimates, and fine jewelry; and honeymoon planning services with the store’s travel concierge). But back to the potential gifts at hand: Click through to find the 10 items that are actually worth registering for.
You know you’re an adult when you have a complete 10-piece cookware set, as opposed to a random saucepan here and a nonstick skillet there. And this one, with its tri-ply, industrial-style polished stainless steel construction, means business. It promises even heat distribution, stick resistance, and easy-to-grip handles — essentially, all the makings of excellent cookware.
All Clad Stainless Steel 10-Piece Set, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Who knew a salad bowl could also function as a work of art? Designed by Nambé, this bowl and servers set is handcrafted from alloy metal and acacia wood to achieve a hard-to-attain modern-meets-rustic aesthetic. When you’re not serving salad, fill the bowl with fruit and have it double as a centerpiece.
Okay, okay, yes, registering for luggage is definitely not the norm, but hear us out: As we continue to prioritize experiences, we’re traveling more, which means we need better, more durable suitcases in which to protect our belongings. And we know RIMOWA is a splurge, but it’s truly the best of the best — an iconic handcrafted design that’s German-engineered from high-end anodized aluminum, making each case virtually indestructible.
This is your year to be a cheese influencer (it’s a thing, trust), and the title is yours to clinch with this stunning marble cheeseboard decorated with orchid details. Display your carefully curated charcuterie spread — strategically placed stuffed olives, a dollop of artisanal peach jam, a tiny mound of almonds, a fan of thinly sliced prosciutto, and an offering of Brie, Manchego, Vacherin Mont d’Or — with pride.
Michael Aram White Orchid Cheese Board with Knife, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Plain, simple, impossibly elegant, these frills-free white porcelain plates — popular among high-end restaurants across Europe — are so timeless that the demand for them prompted their French maker, Bernardaud, to produce them for the masses, making them perfect for all occasions.
Bernardaud Origine Dinner Plate, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Spun from the finest cotton, these super-plush yet surprisingly lightweight towels from Matouk will make you want to streamline all your towels (aka finally get rid of the faded, bleach-stained ones you’ve had for years).
Matouk Milagro Bath Towel, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Ask any culinarian and they’ll name Le Creuset as the quintessential brand for cast-iron cookware. And this dutch oven in particular is worth a special shoutout because it’s extra deep to rein in rogue splatters, it’s not too heavy, and it takes up minimal stove space (read the reviews if you don’t believe us).
Le Creuset 5.25-Quart Deep Round Oven, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Elevate your whiskey-drinking experience with these beautiful crystal glasses that lovingly feature iconic Waterford heritage cuts. They pair perfectly with top-shelf Scotch.
Waterford Heritage Straight Whiskey Glasses, Set of 6, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Brace yourself for the best knife you’ll ever wield: this premier handcrafted blade by Shun that took at least 100 steps to create using a trademarked “super-steel” material layered with Damascus steel for support and precision. And for the finishing touch: a hand-hammered “tsuchime” texture to reduce dragging or resistance when cutting.
Shun Premier 8″ Chef’s Knife, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
If you’ve hand-mixed everything all your life, obstinately refusing for whatever reason to invest in a mixer, then, well, it’s time. It’s time to make your life easier (life is hard enough as it is). And this one by KitchenAid is heralded as the best out there, with a 325-watt motor, a 10-speed slide control, a tilt-head design, and 10 optional hub-powered attachments.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Stainless St, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
