Dinnerware: What Style Fits You?

Selecting wedding china can be one of the first steps a couple takes in defining their collective style. What seems like a simple decision can actually be somewhat complex. Are you traditional? Contemporary? Vintage? Artistic? What image do you want your china to reflect? Of course, the amount of thought placed into this decision usually relates to the amount of entertaining a couple plans on doing. A more elegant style may be appropriate for hosting special family events, while a modern style may be more appropriate for intimate, casual occasions. Click here for more advice on selecting wedding china.

Apparently, the average couple should register for 10-12 five-piece place settings. However, since we probably will not entertain large groups of people, Alex and I will request 8-10 place settings.

Since I was a child, I have loved the Fiesta Dinnerware collection. Now, it wouldn't technically be considered china, since the collection is made of glazed ceramic. Although the line was introduced in 1936, the art feco style of the collection appears very modern and eclectic. The current collection offers 26 different colors. Since we prefer a more relaxed, contemporary style, we will not register for one particular color. We will mix and match the various shades to create a unique group of colors. Even place settings can be mixed and matched.

Cup of Joe in Cedar Falls, one of my favorite coffee shops,
also serves their food and drink on Fiesta Dinnerware.

For a more formal setting, Alex and I will also inherit pieces of fine china from my dad's vast collection of Farmer's Rose, one of Porsgrund's oldest and best known patterns, made with feldspar porcelain and accented with 24 karat gold. The pattern is based on the rosemaling heritage of the Telemark province in Norway. Out of all of my dad's Norwegian china collections, Farmers Rose has always been my favorite.

In addition to the Farmers Rose, Alex and I have also admired my dad's collection of Kongetinn, literally translated to "Royal Pewter." The pewter line of flatware is designed based on the Viking escapades of King Olav the Holy. The Scandinavian king and his men are featured on the flatware handles.

We also enjoy the Kristin collection from Fjord Design, which is inspired by traditional Norwegian wood carving.