Wedding Gifts that Stood the Test of Time: A Guide for the Newly Engaged

Before getting married, I went through the usual wedding registry process. Some items I picked, from silly artwork to trendy china patterns, have failed to stand the test of time. Other gifts have remained favorites, reminding me of the people who had the wisdom to find wedding gifts that were classics. If you are engaged, getting ready to put items on a wedding registry or are a wedding guest who wants to find the perfect gift, perhaps my thoughts and experience will be helpful.

What I registered for

At the risk of embarrassing myself, I am going to disclose some of the things I thought would last for years and remain favorites. I picked out Dansk dishes with a blue trim for everyday use at breakfast, lunch and dinner. I also selected some more expensive formal china. The formal china was rarely used and I quickly got tired of the pattern on the Dansk dishes, although they did last. They lasted so long I got sick of them way before they got scratched and worn. I was tempted to drop a few on purpose, just to be able to get some new dishes.

I eventually gave them to a thrift store and cheerfully sent them on their way. I also registered for more practical items such as toasters, microwave ovens, vacuum cleaners and drinking and wine glasses. I also signed up for my silver pattern, although I actually chose gold-colored cutlery, a striking color against my fancier china plates.

I also registered at an eclectic art boutique and wedding guests bought a nice raku fired pot, some artwork and other items from that store. I was thrilled.

Guess which wedding gifts I still use and love ? I don't have the exact same microwave as I did twenty years ago but I have a similar one. The vaccuum cleaner was much appreciated - as was the toaster, drinking and wine glasses. We still have and use those glasses! My silverware (which is actually gold plated) is still a favorite. The dishes - not so much. When it comes to china patterns, I didn't have a knack for picking timeless classics.