Now more than ever casual dining is an important part of today’s busy lifestyle,
and the versatility and durability of informal dinnerware fit right in.
Pair it with distinctive glassware and quality flatware to create an appealing table for every meal from breakfast or dinner for two to family get together.
Pattern
Select a pattern that you won’t grow tired of using everyday. Do you prefer classic styles? Then look for simple designs that will work for many occasions and seasons. Or do you prefer a more decorative look? Then select a bright pattern or colorful design that adds a cheerful note to your table. Keep in mind you can constantly change the look of your table with festive tablecloths, napkins, centerpieces. And since casual dinnerware is often quite affordable, you may wish to purchase additional sets of everyday dinnerware, to reflect different moods, themes or seasons.
Proportion
Test your casual dinnerware by holding each plate in your hand to feel the strength and weight of the plate. Select dinner plates that are well-proportioned; there should be ample space to display the food. Do the cups feel right in your hand? Test the handle to make sure you can drink without having to pinch it uncomfortably. Are the bowls adequate for various purposes such as soup, cereal or salad? Do your glassware and flatware complement the size, color and pattern?
Type
Remember this is dinnerware you’ll use frequently, so in addition to appearance, you’ll want to make a selection based on durability. Two types of casual dinnerware include: earthenware, a light reddish-brown clay that can be fired in bright colors, and stoneware, a weightier, very durable clay that withstands daily use. Examine the print and the glaze to determine if it will chip easily note the rims and edges rounded rims chip less and hold up better under daily use. Check for color consistency from piece to piece. Ask about the long-term availability of your selected pattern in case you want to buy pieces in the future.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Registry Focus: Crystal
Romantic dinners for two... birthdays and anniversaries... cherished family holidays. these are just a few of the many occasions where you’ll raise your glass and toast one another. Therefore, it’s important to select fine crystal now that will last and will blend with all of your fine tableware. Below are the basics you need to consider.
There are two types of crystal – lead crystal and full lead crystal. Lead crystal is made with lead oxide and is used to heavier glass items, such as vases and goblets. Full lead crystal, the finest-quality glassware available, has a lead content of at least 24%, hence its bright sparkle and delicate nature.
You will need stemware (pieces on stems) and barware (those without stems). Look for clarity and consistency in shape as well as thickness. Due to the nature of the hand-blown products, you may see slight differences from piece to piece, including small bubbles.
Pick up each glass to determine whether it will be comfortable to hold. Tap the rim of the glass, it should ring clearly, like a bell. A crystal glass should stand symmetrically on a flat surface and the edges of the rim and base should be smooth to the touch.
There are two types of crystal – lead crystal and full lead crystal. Lead crystal is made with lead oxide and is used to heavier glass items, such as vases and goblets. Full lead crystal, the finest-quality glassware available, has a lead content of at least 24%, hence its bright sparkle and delicate nature.
You will need stemware (pieces on stems) and barware (those without stems). Look for clarity and consistency in shape as well as thickness. Due to the nature of the hand-blown products, you may see slight differences from piece to piece, including small bubbles.
Pick up each glass to determine whether it will be comfortable to hold. Tap the rim of the glass, it should ring clearly, like a bell. A crystal glass should stand symmetrically on a flat surface and the edges of the rim and base should be smooth to the touch.
Registry Focus: Fine China & Casual Dinnerware
What's your lifestyle like? Your answer is actually a clue as to the type of dinnerware you'll need. Take a walk through your bridal registry spot and you'll probably discover patterns you love in both fine china and informal dinnerware. Whether you decide on one type or two, know the basics about each before you go.
FINE CHINA Once reserved for only special occasions, owners of fine china are discovering that more frequent use of these settings is more than a luxury--it's a lift!
Type The two basic types of fine china, porcelain china and bone china, are both delicate yet durable, since they're fired at high temperatures. The difference lies in their content.
Bone china contains bone ash and is almost translucent: When you hold the plate up, some light shines through it. Lightly tap the plate: It should ring like a bell--another sign of fine china.
Porcelain china is made of highly refined white clays, is white or pale gray and also nearly translucent.
While both bone china and porcelain look delicate, they are amazingly strong and can withstand high heat. And most patterns are dishwasher-safe, providing they do not have gold or platinum trim.
Pattern Choose a pattern that appeals to both you and your groom. (Don't be surprised if he has an opinion here!) Carefully consider designs and colors, keeping in mind that this is a long-term investment and you may want to add to your settings as time goes by.
Better yet, don't limit yourselves to just a single look. So many patterns will mix and match beautifully, adding even more interest to your table. Perhaps place settings in one pattern and service pieces in another will satisfy your style. Or take the look of your table even further with dinner plates in one design and salad plates in another. Mix platinum with gold, florals with geometrics, narrow borders with wide. Experiment at your gift registry--the results may delight you.
Proportion Make sure you're comfortable with the feel and weight of the china in your hands. Also choose cups with shapes and handles you find easy to hold.
In general, look for shapes that appeal to you. Round and oval designs are classic and can fit a variety of styles and tastes; square shapes will give your table a more contemporary look. The rims and borders on plates can range from hardly there to big and bold. Teacups can be tall and slim or low and wide. You may also have a choice of either cream soup or rim soup bowls.
CASUAL DINNERWARE Remember this is dinnerware you'll use frequently, so in addition to appearance, you'll want to make a selection based on durability.
Two types of casual dinnerware include:
Now more than ever casual dining is an important part of today's busy lifestyle, and the versatility and durability of informal dinnerware fit right in.
Pattern Select a pattern that you won't grow tired of using everyday. Do you prefer classic styles? Then look for simple designs that will work for many occasions and seasons. Or do you prefer a more decorative look? Then select a bright pattern or colorful design that adds a cheerful note to your table.
Since casual dinnerware is often quite affordable, you may wish to purchase additional sets of everyday dinnerware, to reflect different moods, themes or seasons. Examine the print and the glaze to determine if it will chip easily note the rims and edges rounded rims chip less and hold up better under daily use. Ask about the long-term availability of your selected pattern in case you want to buy pieces in the future.
Proportion Test your casual dinnerware by holding each plate in your hand to feel the strength and weight of the plate. Select dinner plates that are well-proportioned; there should be ample space to display the food. Do the cups feel right in your hand? Test the handle to make sure you can drink without having to pinch it uncomfortably. Are the bowls adequate for various purposes such as soup, cereal or salad? Do your everyday glassware and flatware complement the size, color and pattern?
FINE CHINA Once reserved for only special occasions, owners of fine china are discovering that more frequent use of these settings is more than a luxury--it's a lift!
Type The two basic types of fine china, porcelain china and bone china, are both delicate yet durable, since they're fired at high temperatures. The difference lies in their content.
Bone china contains bone ash and is almost translucent: When you hold the plate up, some light shines through it. Lightly tap the plate: It should ring like a bell--another sign of fine china.
Porcelain china is made of highly refined white clays, is white or pale gray and also nearly translucent.
While both bone china and porcelain look delicate, they are amazingly strong and can withstand high heat. And most patterns are dishwasher-safe, providing they do not have gold or platinum trim.
Pattern Choose a pattern that appeals to both you and your groom. (Don't be surprised if he has an opinion here!) Carefully consider designs and colors, keeping in mind that this is a long-term investment and you may want to add to your settings as time goes by.
Better yet, don't limit yourselves to just a single look. So many patterns will mix and match beautifully, adding even more interest to your table. Perhaps place settings in one pattern and service pieces in another will satisfy your style. Or take the look of your table even further with dinner plates in one design and salad plates in another. Mix platinum with gold, florals with geometrics, narrow borders with wide. Experiment at your gift registry--the results may delight you.
Proportion Make sure you're comfortable with the feel and weight of the china in your hands. Also choose cups with shapes and handles you find easy to hold.
In general, look for shapes that appeal to you. Round and oval designs are classic and can fit a variety of styles and tastes; square shapes will give your table a more contemporary look. The rims and borders on plates can range from hardly there to big and bold. Teacups can be tall and slim or low and wide. You may also have a choice of either cream soup or rim soup bowls.
CASUAL DINNERWARE Remember this is dinnerware you'll use frequently, so in addition to appearance, you'll want to make a selection based on durability.
Two types of casual dinnerware include:
- Earthenware, a light reddish-brown clay that can be fired in bright colors.
- Stoneware, a weightier, very durable clay that withstands daily use.
Now more than ever casual dining is an important part of today's busy lifestyle, and the versatility and durability of informal dinnerware fit right in.
Pattern Select a pattern that you won't grow tired of using everyday. Do you prefer classic styles? Then look for simple designs that will work for many occasions and seasons. Or do you prefer a more decorative look? Then select a bright pattern or colorful design that adds a cheerful note to your table.
Since casual dinnerware is often quite affordable, you may wish to purchase additional sets of everyday dinnerware, to reflect different moods, themes or seasons. Examine the print and the glaze to determine if it will chip easily note the rims and edges rounded rims chip less and hold up better under daily use. Ask about the long-term availability of your selected pattern in case you want to buy pieces in the future.
Proportion Test your casual dinnerware by holding each plate in your hand to feel the strength and weight of the plate. Select dinner plates that are well-proportioned; there should be ample space to display the food. Do the cups feel right in your hand? Test the handle to make sure you can drink without having to pinch it uncomfortably. Are the bowls adequate for various purposes such as soup, cereal or salad? Do your everyday glassware and flatware complement the size, color and pattern?
Bridal Registry: get the gifts you want
The bridal gift registry is designed to simplify your life. It helps you get the gifts you want, reduces the number of duplicate presents, and offers your guests an easy foolproof way to shop for you.
A typical bridal registry works like this:
1. You and your fiance visit the store of your choice. Call ahead to make an appointment with the bridal consultant and set aside plenty of time for that meeting. Before you and your fiance register, make an informal list of what you want. Common items include:
2. You meet with the bridal registry director or wedding gifts consultant to determine which items and quantities you want to include on your registry "wish list". At many stores this service is computerized, so you can actually leave with a printout of your list. The bridal consultant can help you make the right choices based on your lifestyle and entertaining requirements. She's familiar with all of the merchandise in the store and can make helpful recommendations based on all your preferences.
3. When guests come into the store, they are given a checklist of the items you've selected. They can then select a gift they like and that fits into their budget. By using the bridal registry, guests are assured that you will like what they have selected. Many times guests can simply call the store and order "the perfect wedding gift" over the phone. Once an item has been purchased, that item is removed from your list.
TIPS:
* Most consultants recommend that couples register together and come to a mutual agreement on the item that will one day be part of their new household. Be prepared to compromise along the way.
* Register in both department stores (which offer a wide variety of gifts) and specialty shops (for unique items).
* Register for gifts in a wide price range.
* Remember to register for gifts that reflect both your taste and lifestyle.
* If you register at more than one store for the same or similar items, update the registries at each store as you receive your gifts.
A typical bridal registry works like this:
1. You and your fiance visit the store of your choice. Call ahead to make an appointment with the bridal consultant and set aside plenty of time for that meeting. Before you and your fiance register, make an informal list of what you want. Common items include:
- formal and everyday dinnerware
- fine and casual glassware and barware
- serving accessories and flatware
- cooking equipment and cutlery
- kitchen appliances
- table linens
- sheets and bath linens
- home electronics
- luggage
- furniture
2. You meet with the bridal registry director or wedding gifts consultant to determine which items and quantities you want to include on your registry "wish list". At many stores this service is computerized, so you can actually leave with a printout of your list. The bridal consultant can help you make the right choices based on your lifestyle and entertaining requirements. She's familiar with all of the merchandise in the store and can make helpful recommendations based on all your preferences.
3. When guests come into the store, they are given a checklist of the items you've selected. They can then select a gift they like and that fits into their budget. By using the bridal registry, guests are assured that you will like what they have selected. Many times guests can simply call the store and order "the perfect wedding gift" over the phone. Once an item has been purchased, that item is removed from your list.
TIPS:
* Most consultants recommend that couples register together and come to a mutual agreement on the item that will one day be part of their new household. Be prepared to compromise along the way.
* Register in both department stores (which offer a wide variety of gifts) and specialty shops (for unique items).
* Register for gifts in a wide price range.
* Remember to register for gifts that reflect both your taste and lifestyle.
* If you register at more than one store for the same or similar items, update the registries at each store as you receive your gifts.
Registry Focus: The Gift of Gown Preservation
So, you're the bride-or the couple-who has everything. Even the more non-traditional registry ideas don't hold the same appeal for you that they do for most engaged couples. Well, now there's a new service you can add to your list-gown cleaning and preservation.
You've got to get it cleaned, it's got to be done right and it's one post-wedding detail you don't want to deal with-or pay for. The solution: register for the process so guests can cover the cost.
Friends and family are really responding to this unique "gift," because it feels practical and sentimental at the same time. It's a necessity, but there's also something so romantic about contributing to saving the dress for future generations to wear as well.
You've got to get it cleaned, it's got to be done right and it's one post-wedding detail you don't want to deal with-or pay for. The solution: register for the process so guests can cover the cost.
Friends and family are really responding to this unique "gift," because it feels practical and sentimental at the same time. It's a necessity, but there's also something so romantic about contributing to saving the dress for future generations to wear as well.
Registry Focus: Service with a Style
There's a lot more to registry than the standard (albeit spectacular) china, flatware and crystal. Don't forget to go beyond the basics and sign on for the accessories that complete your look. Need specifics? Thought you'd never ask.
Let's start with dinnerware: We like to see major patterns mingling on the table, but if you'd rather stick to one, you can mix it up a bit with serving pieces in a different design. Register for platters, coffee service, casseroles, extra salad plates for dessert and 12-inch service plates than can double as buffet plates or service platters later. And here are more service-oriented ideas-many of which are available in either china, crystal or silverplate: Platters, fruit bowl, gravy boat and stand, covered vegetable dish, soup tureen, water pitcher, vase, coffee server, teapot, sugar and creamer, covered butter dish.
In the crystal department, consider decanters, pitchers, vases and salt and pepper shakers that don't exactly match your main pattern, but somehow manage to enhance it.
The same goes for flatware, from stainless to sterling. Get creative and register for a complementary combination of pieces. For starters: Cheese serving knife, tablespoon, sugar spoon, pie server, berry spoon, salad servers, butter serving knife, carving set, lemon/pickle fork, assorted trays-and whatever else is an essential to you.
Finally, for all you elegant entertainers out there (it can happen to you!), add on the little things that make a big difference. For instance, if you like to set the mood with candlelight, register for candlesticks, votives or even a cool candelabra. Baskets, porcelain bowls and other open dishes are great for holding condiments, biscuits or rolls. And lots of items can do vase duty, from pitchers to wine coolers. Or go for individual bud vases at every setting-and really rake in the raves.
Let's start with dinnerware: We like to see major patterns mingling on the table, but if you'd rather stick to one, you can mix it up a bit with serving pieces in a different design. Register for platters, coffee service, casseroles, extra salad plates for dessert and 12-inch service plates than can double as buffet plates or service platters later. And here are more service-oriented ideas-many of which are available in either china, crystal or silverplate: Platters, fruit bowl, gravy boat and stand, covered vegetable dish, soup tureen, water pitcher, vase, coffee server, teapot, sugar and creamer, covered butter dish.
In the crystal department, consider decanters, pitchers, vases and salt and pepper shakers that don't exactly match your main pattern, but somehow manage to enhance it.
The same goes for flatware, from stainless to sterling. Get creative and register for a complementary combination of pieces. For starters: Cheese serving knife, tablespoon, sugar spoon, pie server, berry spoon, salad servers, butter serving knife, carving set, lemon/pickle fork, assorted trays-and whatever else is an essential to you.
Finally, for all you elegant entertainers out there (it can happen to you!), add on the little things that make a big difference. For instance, if you like to set the mood with candlelight, register for candlesticks, votives or even a cool candelabra. Baskets, porcelain bowls and other open dishes are great for holding condiments, biscuits or rolls. And lots of items can do vase duty, from pitchers to wine coolers. Or go for individual bud vases at every setting-and really rake in the raves.
Registry Focus: Kitchen Knives
Kitchen Knives: The Real Cut Ups
No kitchen is complete without them. But do you know what to look for when registering for knives? Here’s the basics about blades and sizes.
First, you should feel comfortable using the knives you choose. Consider the size of your hands and what feels right in them, the size of a knife’s handle, the balance and the frequency with which you plan on using it. Heavier knives often perform better, but it’s still a question of personal preference and function. Slicing soft vegetables, for instance, is a job suited to lighter knives.
If you’re headed for the bridal registry, a good starter set of knives should include the following types.
Chef’s knife. The most often used knife since it performs most kitchen tasks easily, the chef’s knife is available in four blade lengths: six, eight, 10 and 12 inches—10 inches being the most popular. But to find the length for you, the handle should "rock" back and forth, allowing you to work without lifting the blade from the cutting board.
Carving knife. A 12- to 14-inch carving blade reduces the number of strokes necessary to slice through meat and large fruits. It’s got a slightly flexible, slim blade.
Paring knife. Easy to grasp and maneuver, the three- or four-inch parer is meant for tasks that require precision, such as peeling apples, making those fancy garnishes and dicing and trimming firm fruits and vegetables.
Utility knife. Use a six-inch utility knife when a carver is too small and a chef’s knife too big. It dices and slices fruits and vegetables, and handles large paring jobs.
Serrated knife. For cutting through firm-skinned fruits and vegetables with soft interiors, such as tomatoes, and when cutting bread, you’ll really need a ten-inch or longer serrated blade.
No kitchen is complete without them. But do you know what to look for when registering for knives? Here’s the basics about blades and sizes.
First, you should feel comfortable using the knives you choose. Consider the size of your hands and what feels right in them, the size of a knife’s handle, the balance and the frequency with which you plan on using it. Heavier knives often perform better, but it’s still a question of personal preference and function. Slicing soft vegetables, for instance, is a job suited to lighter knives.
If you’re headed for the bridal registry, a good starter set of knives should include the following types.
Chef’s knife. The most often used knife since it performs most kitchen tasks easily, the chef’s knife is available in four blade lengths: six, eight, 10 and 12 inches—10 inches being the most popular. But to find the length for you, the handle should "rock" back and forth, allowing you to work without lifting the blade from the cutting board.
Carving knife. A 12- to 14-inch carving blade reduces the number of strokes necessary to slice through meat and large fruits. It’s got a slightly flexible, slim blade.
Paring knife. Easy to grasp and maneuver, the three- or four-inch parer is meant for tasks that require precision, such as peeling apples, making those fancy garnishes and dicing and trimming firm fruits and vegetables.
Utility knife. Use a six-inch utility knife when a carver is too small and a chef’s knife too big. It dices and slices fruits and vegetables, and handles large paring jobs.
Serrated knife. For cutting through firm-skinned fruits and vegetables with soft interiors, such as tomatoes, and when cutting bread, you’ll really need a ten-inch or longer serrated blade.
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