You've decided to do it on your own. Even though the parents have offered help, you want to start your life out knowing that the wedding was paid for by the two of you together. You added a Cash Gift Service to your registry, but you know that your friends' pockets hardly run deep. You need affordable basic kitchen appliances, and just about everything else, too. Here are our recommendations for great items at prices that won't break anyone's piggy bank.

Once things settle down, you'd like to invite friends over to celebrate, but need to make sure that you have something to serve them with. New dishes have been on your mind, and so has drinkware and some nice new flatware. You'd also love a reasonably-priced set of wine glasses to keep everything matching, and some nice serving pieces, as well. We've done the research for you, and these are our best picks. Entertain in style with no excessive costs!

In the bedroom, dress things up with decorative pillows and a great duvet, plus turn up the romance with some soft candles. Some new sheets and towels would spruce up your décor, too. Home decorating might not have always been your thing, but by adding some simple touches, you can create a warm and wonderful atmosphere to start your new life together and make hanging out at home feel special.

Leaving on your honeymoon and still lugging around that dingy duffle bag from college? A good luggage set is a registry gift with stamina that can last for years to come. But if there's no time for the honeymoon now, register for some great short-term experiences, instead. Take a few days here and there to enjoy yourself and blow off the stress from planning a wedding. A short trip or a day at the spa are wonderful ways to relax and let your friends help you out a bit.