WishList: Margot & Tré Menzel

When Margot Klar and Tré Menzel became engaged, they were excited to begin checking off their list of “to dos” for the wedding preparation; yet when it came time to plan for their registry, they weren’t quite so eager. “Our respective homes were already stocked,” Margot explains, so it was without much enthusiasm that the couple brought up the registry topic with their families. The conversations, however, helped them see the situation in a different light. “We had plenty of hand-me-downs, mediocre appliances, and average décor,” says Margot, “but didn’t really have anything we truly loved.” Since the two had recently purchased a home, family members pointed out that registering was essential to filling the house with pieces that reflected the couple’s new life together. Margot and Tré also liked the fact that many of the items would be given to them by their dearest loved ones, lending the furnishings a sentimental value. “I started to get excited!” Margot admits. “We really wanted and needed everything brand new.”

As the couple began discussing their registry initiatives in depth, they started to feel overwhelmed with how much needed to be decided upon. Brand-new items for their bed, bath, kitchen, and living room made their list of objectives, as well as fine china at both of their mothers’ insistence. “Moms usually know best… and ours were adamant about [china],” laughs Margot.

The couple ultimately decided to go with four of their favorite stores for their registry needs, and started off with Pottery Barn. “I love anything and everything Pottery Barn, so that was never a question!” jokes Margot. “They offer quality products with great style.” With an eye towards items that would give their bed and baths a clean, modern feel, the couple chose classic glass apothecary jars with matching accessories; bedding from the Cole Stripe Silk Collection; organic sheet sets; and cozy white robes. Getting their feet wet with a favorite retailer really helped to get them on track. “Once we started, it all came together,” says the couple, dismissing their initial registry jitters.

Their next online stops were Bloomingdale’s and Williams-Sonoma to find the best in kitchen gadgets, appliances, cookware, and more – including china. An Alessi toaster with bun warmer, a KitchenAid stand mixer, Vera Wang aluminum bowls, and gorgeous china with a gilded-leaf border (also by Vera Wang) went on the couple’s Bloomingdale’s list. Their Williams-Sonoma registry included items such as an All-Clad soup pot and slow cooker, a Henckels “Twin Cuisine” knife set, a Cuisinart brick oven, and an OXO salad spinner.

Last, it was off to Crate and Barrel for all the finishing touches. Margot and Tré chose a variety of eye-catching items to capture the overall ambiance they wanted in their new home. Many of the products were meant to serve as conversation pieces when entertaining, and some were simply things that the couple loved. Items like a modern-looking divided tray, “Grand Hotel II” place settings, an interesting carafe, unique candleholders, and intricate mirrors were placed on their growing list. Even wall art, plush accent pillows, and throws were selected. “We ended up choosing such amazing things – everything we wanted, needed, and more!” Margot says of their registry process.

Although Margot admittedly made most of the selections, she was constant in her efforts to engage Tré with online shopping so that his choices could also be included. “Some couples may enjoy choosing gifts in a store, but we had a great time doing it online. It was so easy, convenient, and straightforward,” explains Margot. “Registering online is the way to go… it was great,” Tré agrees. In the end, Margot and Tré were both happy with their gifts – even the china. “We are so glad we listened to our moms’ advice!”