Despite 40% of couples using their wedding registry for their honeymoon, the traditional wedding registry is still the first choice for many couples. You can see this with the success of websites like Zola, that offer registry services and over 50,000 items to choose from.
One of the most popular registry additions is dinnerware sets. But choosing the best dinnerware for your new home as a couple can be overwhelming.
Use this guide to help you choose the perfect set for your registry.
Material
Before you start thinking about patterns and styles, you need to choose the main material that the plates are made out of. The most common options are bone china, earthenware, stoneware, melamine, and porcelain.
Bone China
This material is durable, which makes it a smart choice for both your everyday and special occasion dinnerware. It’s elegant and lightweight.
Unlike fine china, this option will resist chipping and is safe for the dishwasher and microwave. Its strength will give it longevity.
Earthenware
The look of earthenware is casual, which makes it better for everyday dinnerware sets. You’ll immediately notice that this classic material has some significant weight to it.
Avoid sudden temperature changes and high heat. This can cause the dinnerware to lose its good looks and potentially crack.
Stoneware
Stoneware is similar to earthenware but has a protective glaze finish. This gives it a smooth appearance and durability.
You’ll need to be careful with sudden changes in high heat and freezing temperatures. You’ll need to hand-wash hand-painted designs.
Melamine
These plates are the most affordable and the easiest to care for. They’re typically casual and perfect for outdoor entertaining.
While they aren’t suitable for the oven or microwave, they’re shatterproof and break-resistant. You can also throw them in the dishwasher for easy cleaning
Porcelain
Plates made of porcelain go through an extremely high-temperature firing process. This makes them quite durable and non-porous.
Most porcelain dinnerware is microwave and dishwasher safe. Though you should be careful if it has metallic accents, this will make them a no-go for the microwave.
Pattern
Next, there are four design options to choose from, solid, band, patterned, and hand-painted. The one you choose will depend on your personal taste and the style of your home.
Neutrals like white or ivory are safe and will blend in with anything. A solid-colored band is timeless and will never go out of trend.
For a bolder look, you can choose a trendy set of dinnerware that features a bold pattern or several colors.
Care Considerations
Before you choose a set that has a dozen place settings, consider the amount of space it’ll take up. This is especially important if you plan to move soon.
If you choose an especially delicate set, you’ll need to know how to care for them. You’ll also need to know how to move them so that the entire set arrives at your new home safely.
Choose the Best Dinnerware
Selecting the best dinnerware set is about working your way through the options. Start by choosing formal or casual and material. Then decide on the color and pattern you like.
Browse the indoor style section of our blog for more helpful articles in styling your home.
