Many of my best and favorite childhood memories were made around our family’s dining table, usually featuring the most delicious spread of food and the most beautifully set table. My mom taught me the art of celebrating each and every day, and most of the celebrations started with our family meals. While it didn’t happen every night, every so often, we did use fine china, crystal glasses, silver, cloth napkins, and placemats. And let me tell you, it was a beautiful sight to behold!
When it came time for me to create my own wedding registry and choose pieces for my family, including fine china was a no-brainer. (I created a Macy’s registry for the sheer fact that they have an incredible selection of china on display in their stores! Bloomingdale’s is also a good choice.) As I’ve spent the last few years of my life attending a copious amount of weddings (12 in one year!), I’ve noticed that I was mostly on an island all to myself when it came to prioritizing china, crystal, and more “special occasion” pieces.
If you’re a current bride looking for those special pieces to put in your first home, I’m here to advocate for the return of fine china. Some of our favorite brands are making china both modern and timeless all at once. And if I learned anything from my mom (who learned this from her mom), it’s that your family is always worth celebrating. And every day- no matter if it’s just a random Tuesday in January- is a sweet and special occasion worthy of a pretty place setting.
Our Favorites in Fine China
Kate Spade Parker Place Collection
This beautiful Kate Spade set will add a splash of color to your dining table. The striped salad plate is the perfect eye-catching detail, elevating these pieces to modern elegance.
Vera Wang by Wedgewood
One of our favorite wedding dress designers has expanded her talents to tableware, and it agrees with her! Vera Wang, in partnership with classic brand Wedgwood, offers a simple and clean set of china that will complement any decor style.
Modern & Classic
A great way to combine modern and classic is with a china set like this. Several plates have navy and gold trim that reminds me of my mom’s wedding china (which I love!). But the accented floral plates give it flair.
Classic Minimalist
The Austin Platinum is a classic that will never go out of style. It brings sophisticated elegance to the table. This stunning pattern features bright white paired with black and platinum bands, offering simple sophistication for your future special occasions.
Fun Polka Dots
Who says polka dots can’t be elegant? Kate Spade takes a fun pattern and turns it fine on this Larabee Road collection of china, and we couldn’t love it more. This set is perfect for dipping your toe into the world of fine china if you’re not quite convinced yet.
Make a Statement
The Lenox Vintage Jewel Collection makes a statement of luxury and grace. It will take any occasion to the next level. Because it creates such a beautiful tablescape, we used it as the featured image of this article.
Lace Inspired
Love lace? So do we! Inspired by details from Vera Wang’s bridal gowns, this Vera Lace collection is characterized by understated elegance. Decorated with a unique combination of tailored lace bands and delicate floral details, bringing elegance and grace to any dining occasion. This pattern also comes in gold.
Modern Warmth
Right now, I’m loving this mid-mod Wedgwood’s Geo Gold collection. Its crisp, geometric patterns and texture-rich ceramics make a warm yet modern statement.
Contemporary Classic
Another classic from Kate Spade New York, the Gardner Street Platinum place setting, features stems of platinum foliage on fine white bone china, creating a stylized two-tone floral motif to freshen your formal table. This setting is the definition of contemporary elegance.
Don’t Forget the Serving Pieces
Maybe committing to entire place settings of fine china still feels like too much. If that’s the case, I suggest choosing a few luxury serving pieces for your registry. I use my china bowl and platter frequently, especially for events like bridal showers or birthday dinners. If you are registering for fine dinnerware, don’t forget the serving pieces. You will be glad you have them!
Since most china place settings include coffee cups and saucers, it’s nice to have a matching tea or coffee set. It completes the look of your table and elevates your after-dinner coffee and dessert.
We believe the pieces you choose as you begin your new life together with your spouse can last a lifetime! We love the idea of a legacy that can be passed down through simple items like plates, cups, and bowls. Any day can be a special occasion or reason to make lasting memories with your family and friends around the table.
With the help of RegistryFinder.com, you can point your shower guests and wedding guests to your wedding registries in one convenient place. You can also find more must-have registry items on our GiveIt Blog.
