Your day starts and ends in the same place every day: your bed. When it’s time to create your wedding registry, spend some time thinking about the look and feel you want for your new bedroom. Shopping for sheets and pillows and all the other bedding accessories can feel overwhelming: so many choices in a sea of sateen and goose feathers!

From the mattress to the pillows and everything in between, we have compiled a list of everything you’ll need to build the bed of your dreams…

Mattress Pads and Toppers

A mattress cover is like the “underwear” for your bed: it’s the base layer you can’t see, but it’s an essential part of the whole ensemble. There are more than a few options when searching for mattress pads. If you just want to protect your mattress, try a waterproof mattress cover: it simply serves as a waterproof or antimicrobial protective layer for your mattress.

If you want to add an extra layer of cushion to your mattress, a mattress topper is a perfect and affordable way to add up to 4 more inches of softness and support. For cloud-like fluffiness, try a down or down alternative mattress topper to add a layer of feathery softness. Or, if you prefer something that gently molds to your body as you sleep, opt for one of the gel memory foam toppers.

Sheets

Once you’ve decided on the base layers, it’s time to choose your sheets. This is the hardest part for me. I am very picky about choosing my sheets because this layer has the most contact with your bare skin. I want my sheets to be soft and breathable, and I want them to retain that softness (as well as their durability) through many washing cycles! The 400-thread count sateen Threshold sheets (from Target) are just that: breathable, soft and durable!

Tencel sheets are another luxurious option. They are although they are a pricier option, all the rave reviews make these worth the splurge!

Covers

Now your bed needs a cover. And the most basic, simple, timeless, and versatile option is a down (or down alternative) comforter. A fluffy white comforter is the perfect bed covering for a polished “made” look and a comfortable night’s sleep! It can be used simply “as-is,” or you can add a duvet cover: for a pop of color or to protect the comforter itself.

If you want to make more of a personal style statement, you can find comforter sets in any colors and patterns that suit your taste. There are also quilts and coverlets. I had a beautiful matelasse bedspread for the last five years, and I loved the lightweight feel of it, especially living in year-round warmer Florida weather. I just switched to a down comforter when I moved to Georgia for a new crisp white look and a cover that seemed to adapt to the climate of the changing seasons!

Pillows

Pillows are probably the most “personal” of all the bedding options; it’s the support for your head and neck all night long, and it can mean the difference between a great night’s sleep and a stiff neck for days! You can choose pillows based on how you sleep: side sleeper versus back sleeper versus stomach sleeper. Or you can select pillows based on their level of support from soft down to more firm.

And if you’re just not sure where to start, register for a set of quality medium-density support pillows, like the Serta pillows pictured above. Then later on, you or your partner can swap out your pillow for one with more or less support, as desired.

Accessories: Throw Pillows and Throw Blankets

Add some texture and patterns to finish decorating your place of rest and relaxation. Depending on your style, there are lots of fun and fancy decorative pillows to top off the head of your bed.

A chunky knit throw or a cozy sherpa-lined blanket are some cozy options to add a final layer of textures and warmth to the foot of your bed. I have different throw blankets for my bed to change out with the seasons and the holidays. Alternating the throw blankets gives my bed a refreshing facelift without a complete bedding overhaul. So register for a couple of throws in different colors and materials! It’s my favorite way to curl up with a good book or take a short nap without getting under all the bed covers!

Find the right bedding

Whether your ideal bed is firm and supportive or extra plush and downy soft, we hope you enjoy finding and registering for all the right layers to put it all together. Don’t forget that your wedding guests can find all your registries in one convenient place at RegistryFinder.com.

Happy Registering and Sweet Dreams!