Originally Posted by rjones28

I would say go to you local bike store, so you can try on the helmet - fit is important. There are many good brands: Specialized, Bell, Giro, Garneau. While you're there, try on some of the gloves that are in stock. Water bottles are usally cheap and plentiful. I don't personally think the brand matters on those.

Other items that you didn't mention:

Clipless pedals and shoes.
Saddle bag to hold road-side repair tools
Tire patch kit and/or a spare tube.
Tire levers, for changing flat tires.
Mini airpump for inflating repaired tire.
Maybe a multi-tool - I don't carry one, but some do.
Cycling shorts - important for comfort.
Cycling jersey (many consider this optional - ie wear a t-shirt)