Selecting The Best Dinnerware

Imagine this. You're planning a dinner party for a few close friends. The invitations are sent. The menu is determined. You've written a three-page-long to-do list to get your home ready. One question you've probably asked is this: what dinnerware will we use?

For special occasions, you don't want to use your everyday dinnerware. To make your guests feel welcomed, you should always give them your best. Perhaps you already have a set of china or fine wine goblets that you love. But, there are many who are still looking for just the right formal dinnerware to suit their style and needs.

Many who are looking for new dinnerware are engaged couples. That's when I was first in the market. My husband and I searched several stores to find something we both liked. We found a line of Mikasa china that was simple and had a classic look. Seven years later I still love the look of my china.

While everyone has their own tastes, I recommend looking for dinnerware that won't go out of style. You may love the blue and orange floral design now, but will you be proud of it in twenty years? Investing in a good set will keep you from having to spend money in the future on new dinnerware if your current set is no longer appealing to the eyes.

Here's another thing to consider. If you are not able to buy all of your place settings at once, it's a good idea to choose a design that will not be discontinued in a year or two. If you're not sure about a particular set, ask an employee or the manufacturer. The last thing you want is to only have three place settings and not be able to find more.

Plates, saucers and coffee cups are not the only dinnerware items you need. Nice glasses are also good to have, as you don't want to serve your special guests with basic, everyday glasses. There are many different types of goblets and glasses, so you are sure to find a set that is perfect for your taste and budget.

For our wedding, we were given a set of crystal goblets that are absolutely beautiful. It was a nice surprise since we hadn't even considered needing them. We also received a set of different sized wine glasses. These have really come in handy since the last few years we've learned more about different wines and which types should be served in which glasses.

Flatware is another item that is important. Some consumers choose to buy a set of flatware that matches their china, while others pick something totally independent. If you have a nice set of everyday flatware, you may just decide to use that for special occasions too. Just make sure you have enough for your place settings.

Once you have chosen your dinnerware, be sure to read all of the instructions before using. Some items need to be hand washed while others can be put in the dishwasher. Some of our dinnerware is dishwasher safe but I still prefer to hand wash each item.

Storage is also important. If you are able to put them in a china cabinet, that's great. That way, you are able to see your nice dinnerware on a daily basis. If you don't have a china cabinet, store your dinnerware in a safe kitchen cabinet or even in the original boxes until you're ready to use. Since these items are a lifelong investment, the last thing you want is for a piece to break.

Looking for and choosing the perfect dinnerware is fun and exciting. Remember that you will cherish these items the rest of your life and possibly even pass them down to future generations.