When choosing your flatware, consider the pattern, materials and care. Be sure to handle each piece to see if it is comfortable in your hand. We suggest you register for either eight or twelve place settings plus serving pieces. When choosing a pattern, think about your lifestyle and what will complement it. There are simple styles, rich and ornate ones, and designs in between. Patterns made from silver plate or sterling silver have a rich, elegant feel. Silver plate pieces are made from a nickel, copper and zinc metal alloy that is then covered with 100% silver. Sterling silver flatware is made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals. It is the heaviest and most expensive but will last a lifetime, even when used every day. Today, many couples are choosing stainless flatware. This is a combination of several metals and is long lasting. Extremely affordable and available in a variety of patterns, it is very popular for those who want a more relaxed lifestyle.