Remember when you were a kid, imagining how married life would involve hosting the best parties with friends and family? Now you're an adult, and you actually get to do it — which is why it's smart to create a wedding registry with entertaining in mind. You'll be well-prepared for the brunches, dinners, cocktail hours, and cookouts that you'll have in the years to come.
When it comes to finding entertaining essentials, Bed Bath & Beyond is the place to go. Not only does this store have a virtually endless selection, it also offers options no matter what kind of get-together you like to host. Read on to see some of our favorite picks to help you start your list. (And save a seat at the table for us, will you?)
Presentation matters, especially at cocktail hour. This Olivia & Oliver Madison Whiskey Decanter ($24) makes guests feel like you went the extra mile in procuring a fine liquor for their visit, even if you picked up a bottle on sale at the last minute.
This Our Table Ezra Variegated Stripe Tablecloth ($35) makes impromptu get-togethers feel a little more special. Toss it on the table before a potluck — or heck, pizza delivery! — and the mood instantly shifts. Plus, these casual stripes will never go out of style; you'll be using this tablecloth next year, the year after that, and the year after that.
White dishes are classic, but for something a bit more unexpected, try black — just one of the color options in this Noritake Colorwave Coupe 16-Piece Dinnerware Set ($160). If high-contrast cups and plates aren't your thing, there are plenty of other colors that will elevate your tablescape.
Everyone loves a charcuterie board! This Libbey 4-Piece Glass Acacia Wood Cheese Set ($46) creates a beautiful display, complete with the board itself, a dome to protect cheese, and two bowls for dips or snacks. All you have to do is set out the food and let the party happen.
A glossy, lacquered tray truly never goes out of style. Choose one in a classic shade like navy, as found in this Kate and Laurel Lipton Decorative Tray ($50), and you'll use it to serve drinks (and so much more) forever.
Depending on how large your household is, one Oneida Dupree 45-Piece Flatware Set ($143) may carry you through just fine. To be on the safe side, though — especially if you have kids, plan to have them someday, or just love kidding around with your guests — it's not a bad idea to register for two. The Dupree cutlery design is simple and modern, so you'll never get tired of it.
PSA: you can do better than the cheap and wobbly corkscrew that you impulse-bought at the liquor store. This Our Table Compact Wine Opener Set ($35) makes opening bottles a simpler, safer, smoother experience — not to mention, its sleek design will have guests asking you where they can get one.
This porcelain Our Table Simply White Serving Bowl ($15) goes with everything — and holds just about everything, too. Use it to present everything from pasta to popcorn. It really is that versatile.
Choose the right set of napkins, and you'll enjoy them for years of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These Chambray Napkins in Natural ($23) are nice and neutral, with a denim-like texture that vibes with casual gatherings and special dinners alike.