Should Your Flatware Match Your China?

Although flatware and china patterns should indeed complement each other, the order in which you select the elements (and subsequently "match" each element to the first) depends on which type of utensils you decide to register for. If you are selecting sterling silver, that should be your first step. If not, select the china first and match your flatware pattern to it. However, if you happen to fall in love with a flatware pattern first, consider it a reflection of your style, and simply choose a casual china pattern that coordinates nicely. You can always choose your formal china later, and if the initial flatware doesn't match, select a second pattern of flatware to go with it.