Choosing Silverware - Part One

You know you are a super kitchen nerd when you get as excited as I do about picking out silverware.  Poor Dylan has been subject to several monologues about how monumental it is.  But really, it's kind of a big deal to me.

Growing up, obviously I used whatever silverware mom or grandma had picked out. In college, the industrial flatware at the cafeteria served its purpose. And then, my first job and first apartment! I didn't have much money, but I was creating my own space! 

My mom and sisters came down to help me move in and while I was at work that Monday, they got the place set up for me as a surprise.  Which included a trip to Target to get all things you need for a first apartment - broom, cutting board, curtains, and silverware. It was so kind of them - I really didn't have the money for all those things, but I was a little sad at not getting to pick it myself.

That generic Target silverware soldiered on as I switched apartments and was finally sold in a yard sale when I moved to Texas.  In the meantime, I had inherited my great-grandmother's Oneida flatware - Chateau pattern, service for 12. Although I had never used it, it made the cut to move with me and spent its first 2 years in Texas in a box while I lived with roommates who supplied the flatware. I finally had a chance to use in the current apartment.  But after almost a year in use, I decided to sell it and finally choose something myself.

Now, there is nothing wrong with my great-grandmother's silverware.  Oneida is very nice, high quality flatware.  It feels good in your hand.  However, the pattern she picked was just too fussy for my taste.  My preferences run toward simple and modern; this was frilly and stuffy. The set now has a home with someone who is happy to have it and I am free to look for something new.

Moving forward, we are working on conscientiously choosing what we want.  I feel like on some level this must be what soon-to-be-married couples go through when they register.  What is "our" style?  What will work for our needs? Will it work for now, can it work long term?  How much should we spend?  So many choices!