When you think of planning your wedding, your mind automatically goes to the bigger items like what you’re going to wear, the venue, who will be in your bridal party and choosing a photographer. There are so many other small details to keep in mind though.

One easy place to start on your wedding planning list is with your registry. Believe it or not, your wedding registry actually plays a huge role in your life after marriage and is not something that should be glossed over. It’s purpose is to set you up with the things you’ll need most for a successful newlywed life.

Remember, your wedding is about you as a couple and celebrating your separate lives joining together. Therefore any decisions being made regarding your wedding should be done together, and this is especially true when it comes to your registry. These are items for the home you will both share after all, so you want to make sure you’ll both be happy with them.

It’s also important to know what you should and shouldn’t register for, especially if you’re short on storage space. Your registry is the perfect excuse to replace an item you have that might have seen better days or could use an upgrade. Finding your bed uncomfortable lately? Register for a new mattress to help sleep come easier. Just make sure it’s something you’ll both love!

The thing about registries is that the options are endless. You could theoretically add anything you want. But before you go scanner gun crazy, take a second to think. Carefully curated and thought-out registries are better in the long run because they contain things you really want and need, and your guests will feel like they’re making a valuable contribution to your shared lives.