Tableware has long been a priority on wedding gifts/ lists. Rather than running the risk of a mismatch of individual guest's tastes, the safest plan is to be precise on actual pieces as well as designs. There is such a wide choice on offer today with both glassware and accessories available from leading brands to ensure your table is dressed with confidence and without fuss.

Tableware ranges now offer dishes to cover every occasion from fine dining with pieces such as gourmet plates and bowls to recreate the restaurant ambience to contemporary rice bowls and noodle bowls - but don't forget the everyday essential dining pieces of plates, cereal bowls and mugs. Bowls are really versatile pieces but there are so many bowls to choose from: pasta, cereal, dipping and rimmed bowls - think about the foods you cook and what you need from your items. Do you want jugs to fit in the fridge? Some ranges now incorporate buffet saucers which hold cups or rice bowls - great for a light snack.

There are many contemporary ranges of tableware readily available offering bold patterns and are relatively inexpensive, however, seemingly inexpensive pottery can be more costly in the long term with replacement pieces needed regularly. It is best to select a tableware brand you can trust offering pieces which are safe for use in the dishwasher, oven, microwave and also fridge/freezer for maximum flexibility. Pottery bearing a metallic decoration usually cannot be placed in the microwave or dishwasher. Check too that matching glassware can be placed in the dishwasher - lead crystal must not be washed in a dishwasher as the corrosive effect of the detergent is high on such types of glass and cause it to go 'cloudy'.

Wedding lists, therefore, usually incorporate a tableware range of high quality which will be with the couple for many years to come. Wedding gifts may include items that make ideal gifts, which people would not purchase for themselves such as gravy boats and stands, serving dishes etc. but often the more essential everyday pieces are overlooked. It is important therefore to collect a tableware range which can readily be added to after the Wedding. It's best to check what 'after service' the tableware company offers - is there a registration system where you can be kept informed of changes and additions to your chosen table range and eventually be informed should it be discontinued?

Many couples choose to select a more classic design for wedding gifts - a design which is timeless - it has to be remembered you need to face early morning breakfast and gravy on these dishes.

If you love food - this is a big choice as you may have your tableware for life!