Domestic bliss: Tips for making the most of your wedding registry

As you busily prepare for your walk down the aisle and make countless decisions regarding every detail, one task on your to-do list will help you see beyond your wedding day and into your future life together: the wedding registry. And though few things could be more enjoyable than a day of shopping with your beloved, there's also a bit of strategy that goes into building a complete registry.

When making registry selections, be sure you've listed a variety of items at different price points -- high and low. This way, guests can purchase gifts they can afford, but they also have room to exercise some creativity. According to theknot.com, you should aim to have at least twice as many items on your wish lists as attendees at your wedding.

Don't be afraid to dream big -- now is your chance to choose everything for your home, from towels and linens to plates, flatware and kitchen gadgets. In addition to basics, take this opportunity to ask for premium gifts or upgrades to what you already have.

Having two to three registries is common and completely manageable. Consider including a department store, a national chain and an online retailer. Registering for items available at nationwide locations and online is convenient for out-of-towners. Be sure to check store return and exchange policies in case you receive duplicate items. Some retailers offer completion programs, providing coupons or discounts for you to purchase remaining items on registries after the wedding.

Here are some more tips for building your registry:

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__Kickstart your kitchen:__ Cooking together is a simple way to bond with your spouse and have fun in the process. Now is the perfect time to think about upgrading your kitchen essentials, including dinnerware, silverware, glassware, cookware, bakeware, cutlery, gadgets, storage containers and barware.

If you're looking for a kitchen appliance that can do the job of several, consider a high-powered blender. Other appliances that shouldn't be forgotten include a slow cooker, roasting pan, coffee maker, toaster or toaster oven and microwave.

Once you've got the basics covered, consider some out-of-the-box kitchen items. Keep recipes handy by registering for a cutting board that has a place for a tablet. For easy entertaining, a slate cheese board enables you to write the name of each cheese or appetizer right on the board. Or, pick one with a hidden drawer for knives and storage.

__Serve in style:__ Be ready for dinner parties with formal dinnerware and crystal stemware. Select timeless patterns that will look fresh and inviting on your table for years to come. Add a pop of color and personality with low-cost, on-trend accent pieces, such as chargers or a coffee or tea pot. Register for a few different types of glasses, including water goblets, wineglasses and stemless or highball glasses, depending on your drink of choice. Experts recommend requesting eight to 12 place settings, but you may want more if you plan to host large events. Next, mix and match with complementary serving platters, bowls and serving utensils. Choose versatile pieces that can go from cooking to serving, saving space and adding convenience.

__Hone in on home basics:__ Since you won't spend all of your time in the kitchen, the rest of the home should be included in your registry. An assortment of matching linens, such as towels, rugs and shower curtains for bathrooms, plus bedding sets with extra blankets and pillows, add comfort and style to your master suite and any guest rooms. Decorative pillows, ottomans and throw rugs are nice transitional pieces to tie a room together, especially if you are blending items from each of your previous, unique spaces. You can even register for a few larger items, such as chairs, tables or storage pieces. Lamps, wall art, picture frames, candleholders and vases will help round out your home décor.

__Think outside the home:__ If you've already found the perfect starter home and have an outdoor area, why not register for items to extend your living space? An outdoor grill can help set the scene for family gatherings, tailgate parties or just relaxing with friends. Decide if you prefer gas, which offers easy operation and cleanup, or charcoal, which many barbecue connoisseurs say provides a more intense, grilled flavor.

Also, think about extra features you may want, such as a built-in thermometer, side burners, shelves or tool hooks. Don't forget skewers, cooking utensils such as spatulas, tongs and grill forks, as well as other accessories, such as a grill mitt, grill basket or pizza pan. Be sure to consider space -- if you live in an apartment, you may opt for a smaller grill or one that hooks onto your balcony.

Fire pits are ideal for summer get-togethers and relaxing weekends. If you enjoy al fresco dining, add a patio furniture set to your wish list. Consider other accessories such as hammocks, umbrellas and outdoor games.

Creating gift registries is a fun way to bond with your better half and make your house into a home. Cater your registries to your own unique interests, and don't worry if your wish list isn't 100 percent conventional, as long as it fits your needs. With some careful planning, creativity and teamwork, your wedding gifts will be used many years after saying "I do."