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Picking out china patterns used to be as traditional as the tuxedo when it came to wedding planning, but times have changed and fewer brides are taking this step when they register. The reason is because couples are much more casual about entertaining these days. The purpose of registering for china, crystal and silver was to make sure a young bride had all the proper tools to entertain at home. That being said, the practice has not completely gone away. Like the white wedding gown, it is still hanging in there and there is something to be said for having these formal settings on hand. If you decide to add these elegant pieces to your list, here are some tips to make sure you get what you need: * Register for enough pieces. The typical amount is from 8-12 piece place settings. If you think you'll only need 8, register for at least 10. This way, you are prepared for life's little accidents. The last thing you want is to pull out your dishes for a formal anniversary dinner for 8 and break a plate. If you've planned ahead, you've got one in reserve. * Select only what you'll use. There are all kinds of choices in china and crystal. But, think about it. Do you really need a soup tureen in your fine china pattern? What about champagne flutes in your crystal? You have to store all of this stuff somewhere, so get what you'll actually use. * Choose classic patterns. Have you ever looked at your moms fine china and thought, "That is so 1970s?" You don't want that reaction from your kids. Since formal settings are used maybe once or twice a year (if that), choose pieces that are classic so the next time you pull them out, they won't date themselves or you. A basic white or ivory plate with some color or metallic banding around the edges is a classic design that goes with any occasion. * Consider maintenance. This is very important when deciding to register for flatware. Rarely do brides opt for real silver anymore. This is because the pieces are so expensive and also because of the cleaning that is required. Everyday flatware comes in some beautiful patterns and would make for a great and inexpensive option to the more formal silverware. Another maintenance issue is your crystal. Remember that these pieces will need to be hand-washed. * Make it affordable. Fine china and crystal can be very expensive depending on the pattern you choose. Register for items in sets and as individual pieces so they can choose how much they want to spend. Full place settings can be very expensive and if you want to get as many pieces as you can, you need to do this. People are more apt to buy a $20 or $30 plate than they are a $200 place setting. And, they'll likely add a fork or a wine glass to round out the gift. * Don't forget your everyday stuff. You can have a lot of fun choosing everyday dishes and glassware. Add a splash of color to your kitchen, show off your personality-this stuff is less expensive and you'll probably want to get something new and different in a few years anyway. Keep these tips in mind when registering for your formal settings and you should be fine. However, hopefully everyone will give you time to settle in to married life before they expect you to pull out the good stuff and entertain. Weddings in New Orleans follow an elegant and traditional format of gorgeous formal settings. Add a touch of refinement to your D-day with the right list of traditional dining pieces. Find out more here http://www.neworleansweddingsmagazine.com
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