Many brides choose to register for beautiful crystal to complement their china pattern but it can be difficult to know what to choose. Here are some tips on selecting the perfect crystal!
Choosing a style: Your registry consultant may have explained the 'two-to-one' rule to you, which states that if two parts of your place setting are more elaborate, you should keep the third simple. For example, if you've chosen more ornate china and flatware, you'll want to keep your china simple. Plain crystal is simple and elegant, and the perfect choice if you've selected more detailed china and flatware. Cut crystal has a pattern, and is a very common choice among brides. Banded crystal, with a gold or platinum rim, is becoming more and more popular as brides are opting for banded dinnerware.
Recognizing quality crystal is easier than you might think just look at it! If your crystal is clear and colorless, it is of good quality. If you see bubbles, inclusions, or swirls, the crystal is of lesser quality. If you tap good crystal lightly, you will hear a ringing tone, like a bell. Another way to discover the quality of the crystal is to determine the lead content (the presence of lead is what separates crystal from glass) the more lead crystal contains, the more clear it is.
Choosing a brand of crystal: Many china companies, such as Lenox and Mikasa, offer good-quality crystal, often coordinating with their dinnerware patterns. These are a great choice for brides who are looking for a reasonably-priced option for their crystal. If you are interested in selecting top-of-the-line crystal, however, a traditional bridal registry choice has always been Waterford. The Marquis line by Waterford is the perfect compromise for the bride who wishes to register for Waterford-quality crystal at a more moderate price.
Selecting which pieces to register for: The standard 'starter set' calls for a wineglass, champagne flute, and water goblet to accompany each place setting. But the options don't stop there! Large footed iced beverage glasses, martini glasses, and huge balloon wine glasses are all available. Choose glassware to suit the style of entertaining you and your fiance plan to do. Do you and your friends love a good wine? Select a red and a white wine glass. Don't expect to be drinking a lot of champagne with your dinners? Go ahead and skip the flutes but consider registering for a pair of flutes, for the two of you to toast with on special occasions. Do be sure to register for as many water glasses as you did place settings, and add on as you like!
The best tip of all when it comes to selecting a crystal pattern is to see how it looks with your china and flatware. Your registry consultant should have an area set up, complete with placemats, for you to mix and match the various components of your registry. Play around with different styles until you find the one that seems right to you and your fiance, and you'll choose crystal that you will enjoy for years to come. Cheers!
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