When it comes to wedding planning, there’s so much that goes into every little detail. A special part of that planning is looking at your registry, as most guests these days still want to give a gift to the happy couple. It’s important to decide on home goods that reflects your collective style — my vote is to err on the more traditional side so beautiful gifts don’t go out of style for you in 10 years. {Of course for registries there are a multitude of unique ideas like fulfilling honeymoon activities via Honeyfund and charitable donations like the I Do Foundation, so today’s couples don’t have to go the traditional route.}

With wedding season around the corner, I’ll be taking a look at ideas for building your registry with what you need for entertaining today. Ever the fan of champagne, wine, cocktails, you name it… I’m starting off the series with a roundup of glassware to have in your home. I recommend having 12 of everything so you’re not hunting down additional glassware when you have a dinner party {Mom, I’ve been listening to you all these years!}, and sticking with a global brand that’s widely available like Waterford and Riedel. {You never know, you may find yourself in another country just like me!} That way if one breaks, you won’t have to be hunting a particular style down in a store that stopped carrying the line three years ago.

From left to right:

1. Fancy Wine Glasses –  It’s really quite exciting to have special glasses you bring out for celebratory events. Whatever fancy looks like to you, invest in them. I grew up with these exact glasses in my parents’ home and have so many fond memories using them around the table. When we got married it was a great way to honor my family’s traditions and build new ones of our own. {Waterford Lismore Clarets}

2. Fancy Champagne Flutes – You’ll have many, many wonderful celebrations in the years to come. A great idea is using two of the flutes at your wedding for toasts. {Waterford Lismore Champagne Flutes}

3. Fancy Water Glasses – I recommend having a set of complementary water, wine and champagne glasses. Most likely you’ll have at least water and wine glasses out when hosting, so it makes sense to have stemware that looks nice together. It doesn’t have to be all the same brand, but I like the easy uniformity of the pattern. {Waterford Lismore Goblets}

4. Everyday Red Wine Glasses – I must admit, I love holding a big wine glass with a long stem in my hands. It feels glamorous and so adult. We really like wine, so wanted to have two different sized wine glasses {see #6 below}. If you’re not as into wine and short on space, you can definitely choose just one size wine glass. {Crate & Barrel Oregon Red Wine Glasses}

5. Tumblers – My husband adores whisky, so this was definitely happening. I must admit, he uses them often, and they’re also the perfect size for pouring juice to accompany brunch or cocktails in the evening. Stock up! {LSA International Tumblers}

6. Everyday White Wine Glasses – These go with everything. You can also use them as fancy water glasses instead, or another punch drink when hosting a cocktail party. {Riedel White Wine Glasses}

7. Everyday Champagne Flutes – Okay, I know there really isn’t such a thing, and if you’re toasting with champs every day then you are a lucky girl! Crystal can be a little overwhelming though, so I wanted us to have flutes that we could have out at any type of event. {Crate & Barrel Camille Champagne Glass}

8. Everyday Water / High Ball Glasses – A no brainer. We need water glasses that are pretty, effective and dishwasher safe. Plus, they double for mojitos (!) and beer for my husband. {Schott Zwiesel Long Drink Glasses}

As wedding guests, my husband and I love giving glassware. You know the couple will use it and it reflects an “activity” we both love {#socialbutterflies}. It’s also perfect to give the amount that fits your budget. Just remember to fulfill the registry early! The bride and groom will be appreciative as it may alleviate some thank you note duties following the wedding, and you won’t have to stress about what gift to give the newlyweds.