Do you really need that panini maker or a set of 10 knives? Our guide helps couples ask the all-important question: "Will we use this?" Read on for our takes on 20 popular registry items for the kitchen.
1. KitchenAid Stand Mixer
Why It's Great: A workhorse with tons of horsepower, KitchenAid stand mixers are a baker's best friend - but also do much more with various attachments.
Should You Register for It?
Ambitious cooks find it an indispensable tool for not only whipping up batters but also kneading bread dough, making pasta, grinding meat and even freezing ice cream. Don't bake very often? This beast will take up a lot of real estate in your kitchen. A hand-held mixer that can be quickly stowed might be a better bet.
Get It Now: KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer, $299.95, Williams-Sonoma
2. Enameled Cast-Iron Dutch Oven
Why It's Great: A heavy but all-purpose piece of cookware, the Dutch oven's cast-iron construction makes it the smart choice for braising, roasting and baking.
Should You Register for It?
No matter what you need to cook, chances are you can do it in a Dutch oven. Hearty soups, classic boeuf bourguignon, slow-simmered sauces and even baked breads come out warm and tender from this versatile cast iron pot. Bonus: repeated lifting of a Dutch oven makes bicep curls superfluous.
Get It Now: Le Creuset 5 1/2 Quart Round Dutch Oven, $265, Williams-Sonoma
3. Good Knives
Why They're Great: Quality knives are the backbone of the kitchen; necessary for almost all prep work, a good set transforms hacking into smooth chopping and slicing.
Should You Register for Them?
It's true -- dull knives are more dangerous than sharp knives, and you'll watch your cooking skills improve before your eyes with a good set of tools. Not in the market for a full set? An 8-inch chef's knife, serrated knife for bread and small paring knife are all you really need.
Get It Now: Global 6-Piece Knife Block Set, $570, Williams-Sonoma
4. Waffle Maker
Why It's Great: There's only one way to make a waffle, and this is it. You can't do everything on a griddle!
Should You Register for It?
A waffle maker makes sense for breakfast and brunch lovers with a regular waffle jones. For those who get the craving only a few times a year, save the cabinet space and let your friendly neighborhood diner do the work. If you do register for one, be sure to pick a model with removable plates to make the cleaning process much easier.
Get It Now: Cuisinart Waffle Maker, $59.95, Crate & Barrel
5. Ice Cream Maker
Why It's Great: Hello? Homemade ice cream? What's not great about that?
Should You Register for It?
Homemade ice cream is indeed delicious, but the novelty can wear off after the first few uses. Not to mention that the ice cream maker's bowl should be stored in the freezer, so judge how much room you can spare there.
Get It Now: Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker, $59.99, Bed Bath & Beyond
Click here for 15 more wedding registry gifts
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