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Getting married soon? I bet homeware is the last thing on your mind right now. You are probably too tied up discussing future financing with your father-in-law, sidestepping prying questions about future grandchildren and juggling a million little wedding details like confetti VS bubbles, string quartet VS DJ and Maid of Honour VS Old School Friend. I suspect at this stage you are happy if you find a moment to nip to the loo, let alone a whole afternoon to choose the perfect set of tableware to feature on your registry. This is why we have decided to put together a little how-to list for your convenience (we all know how brides-to-be enjoy little lists, particularly if you get to a point where you can check something off). So here goes: 1. Choose one store to go to:
Choice is fantastic, but too much of a good thing can be a little overwhelming. Rather than scouring a whole bunch of smaller stores, we suggest that you find a department store in your vicinity that stocks a wide array of dinnerware. You may still feel a little overwhelmed, but at least this way you can be confused in one location. 2. Do not take too many people along: Mother, sister, sister-in-law, best friend - we realise that two heads are better than one, but having too many opinions are going to make things harder rather than easier. Choose one, maximum two, people (whose taste and judgement you trust unequivocally) to accompany you on this very important shopping trip and discuss beforehand how much they are allowed to meddle. Remember that you are going to be sharing this tableware with your fiancé, not your friend/mother/sister-in-law and that you should keep his taste in mind as well. If he likes a minimalist atmosphere chances are he won't be too impressed by Rococo-esque china. 3. Be sure what you want before you step inside the store:
Discuss you preferences with your partner before you set out on your shopping trip. The first choice you have to make is with regard to pattern. Aside from all-white there are four basic pattern types. These include: • Floral - features flowers and foliage
• Geometric - think Op Art
• Banded - plain white/ivory banded with gold/platinum
• Oriental - think Memoirs of a Geisha
The pattern you choose should reflect your lifestyle and complement your interior. It is normally best to purchase a set of tableware for everyday use and to list on your registry the set you want for more formal occasions. 4. Don't over-think it: Yes, homeware is an investment, but you shouldn't be too concerned with whether or not the china you choose will still be in fashion in 20 years' time. You can always purchase new pieces down the line to ensure that the look of your tableware remains current - right now you should be excited to pull your plates out when you have company over. There you go - the four golden rules to abide by when choosing dinnerware to feature on your wedding registry. Happy hunting!
Marilee Foreman owns a homeware store that specialises in occasion-specific dinnerware.
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