By Elisabeth
Let's talk about one of my favorite parts of the kitchen registry: Small appliances!
Now, here is where you can go for it more than not. You should put appliances on your registry that you really want and most likely need. You do NOT skimp out here. I say this only because it may be the only chance you'll have to get any of your higher priced items anytime soon. If you are paying for your wedding, or any component of it, then you may not not have an extra $300 sitting around waiting to be spent on a bad ass mixer.
(Of course you do not want to have all items on your registry out of your guests' price range, but a lot of the time, several people do go in on a higher priced item, so don't leave them out!)
Let's start with the Queen Bee, the KitchenAid Mixer.
Now, this is something I did NOT register for 10 years ago. I just didn't know better or think I would need it. I was WRONG. I did registered and receive a Cuisinart hand-held mixer. It worked just fine (it just went South on me last year) and I would even recommend it as well, but in addition to a standing mixer, if at all possible.
Next up, a Food Processor.
This is the Cuisinart I have, only this one is a newer, hipper version. You can pretty much find any KitchenAid or Cuisinart and it'll shine. Based on how much you cook, or think you will down the line, you can go with a 9-cup here or the larger 11-cup. (I've never had any size issues with my 9-cup.)
And now, Blenders.
From the reviews I have read on this Cuisinart, this is a great blender. (I have one too.) There are plenty of them out there, but you want something that's got a lot of power if you plan on making smoothies, blending ice, etc. This one is quieter than most, so that's a super bonus. Bottom line, you need one, especially if you plan on making things like margaritas!
So, these are the three big kahunas. An ideal trio for any kitchen.
Another item that would be ideal is a toaster, for example. I have a toaster oven which works great for our family, (And yes, I've heard they catch on fire easily. I'm on the lookout.) but a 4-slice toaster big enough to toast bagels is perfect.
If you want dinner ready and on the table within minutes of walking through the door, a slow cooker would definitely be up your alley.
You definitely want one that is 5-quarts or larger to fit your needs now and down the road when more mouths to feed may be involved.
Now, here is where I need your help, readers. I am not a coffee drinker. I know. What in the hell is wrong with me? I am sure one day I'll wake up and think a cup is delicious, but it hasn't happened yet. So, what type and brand of coffee maker would you recommend to someone who is creating their registry? What would you have wanted and needed from the get-go?
Also, anything else you think I should add to our small appliances list? Waffle makers? Griddles? Juice makers? If you could go back, what else would you have put on yours?
There are many small appliances out there and if your kitchen is anything like mine, it's hard to find space to house them all. Sit down, take a look at what is available and make a priority list. And worse case? You get a few things you might be having second thoughts on. All you need to do is return them and purchase your true must-haves.
Next week I'll be back with cookware and utensils to round out my series!
{photo credit: crateandbarrel.com}