When I was married, not a thought was given to not selecting fine china and silver settings for the wedding registry. In the years since then, I’ve heard many brides say they are forgoing the formal settings and choosing a second set of casual dishware, or a holiday setting instead. I wonder if having a cabinet full of fine china is becoming “old-fashioned,” and I wonder, if I were just now creating my registry would I skip fine china too?
My sister in-law didn’t choose to register for fine china but chose instead to use a lovely pattern passed down from her grandmother. Here in the South, having your grandmother’s silver platter or crystal bowl is a coveted treasure. Many times relatives will register for the same patterns – knowing that some day they will be passed down together to the next generation. While I am still pleased with my traditional Mikasa, sometimes patterns just don’t have generational appeal – a family friend was recently lamenting that the peach and black floral pattern she had chosen in the 80′s was really out of touch with her home today . Which introduces another question, should patterns be classic or current?
With Thanksgiving less than one week away you might be making plans to host the whole crew – or you just might be breathing a sign of relief that you won’t be setting the holiday table at your house this year! I love that at these special dinners the fine china, crystal and silver are pulled out to be cleaned and polished… but why do we save these items for major holidays?
Let’s make a pact – to use our china more! Let’s elevate the simplest dinner into something a little more special, mix it with everyday dishes and chargers to change the look. I recently mixed mine with plasticware for a special seven-year old’s birthday party!
Tell me, what is the story of your fine china?
If you skipped this tradition have you been glad that you did?
by Sunshine, pictures by Peter and Sunshine
