Guide to Gift Registry | Wedding Planning

Beyond the Wedding Registry Basics

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:00 AM

Once you've picked out the tableware, furniture and housewares for your wish list, it's time to customize your wedding registry with gift ideas that further reflect your lifestyles and interests. Whether you're a connoisseur of good cheese and wine or a sports buff, all you have to do is sign up and enjoy what you truly love.The Great OutdoorsFrom Left: These outdoor essentials will make a a cool wedding gift for any adventurous family. Year-round two-person tent by Black Diamond. Rechargeable retro-style lantern by Coleman. Hiking backpack by L.L. Bean. Eureka's "mummy bags" for women, designed with extra room through the hip area and more insulation around the chest and feet. Women's hiking shoes by The North Face. Pocket-size binoculars by Vortex Optics. Cast-iron Sportsman Grill by Lodge. Blanket from Wrapables.Home WorkThese are what we like to call creative wedding gifts. For some help around the house, consider these useful items: A 24" level (top) with gripping pads and attached 9" level/stud sensor; flashlight and screwdriver/drill/saw (front); and interchangeable lithium battery with charger (right), all by Black & Decker. To measure space for a new couch, try Sears/Craftsman's laser measure (far left)—it's amazingly accurate. Freshen up any room's walls with Glidden paint. Artistic Tile's bulls-eye-patterned Brazilian slate tiles with metallic leafing dress up a backsplash or a guest bathroom. Nafco engineered-wood floorboards (used as surface and stacked).Special DeliverySometimes it turns out the unusal wedding gift is the one we find ourselves unable to live without. Imagine getting some of your favorite treats delivered to your doorstep every month. From left: TheRoastedBean.com will customize and send you a selection of brews—anything from Kenya classic to just about any flavor you fancy. The California Wine Club features Handley Cellars and Gainey Vineyard, among many more, in their wine-of-the-month clubs. And don't forget to say cheese! Three wedges of artisanal varieties are yours to savor when you sign up for Artisanal Premium Cheese's monthly program. Cheeseboard from Crate & Barrel.Spa ServiceEvery woman knows the truly special wedding gifts are the ones that soothe the soul. With these special wedding gifts your home can be your personal sanctuary. In basket, from left: Waffle-weave hotel wrap by Chris Madden for JCPenney. Gift certificate from Bliss Spa. Superplush white robe and blue throw (under basket), both by BareFoot Dreams. Luxe terry slippers for guys and girls by Frette. Silk eye mask from Wrapables. Three-wick candle and tropical floral-scented fragrance diffuser by India Hicks and sea sponge, all from Crabtree & Evelyn. Basket by Target.Sporty SpiceFor an appropriate wedding gift, head for the sports aisle, it's time for play. From left: Set of clubs stored in a pink bag, by Hippo. The handle on this women's racquet (center) is lighter than the men's racquet in back, which is designed to augment swing power, both by Head. Bag by Ame and Lulu. Golfing gloves: the men's is by FootJoy; the women's, by LadyClassic, allows your ring to peek out. Cleveland's wedge offers better ball contact; Odyssey's putter has a lightweight feel. Monogrammed balls by Smart Play.Photography: Alexandra Grablewski.

Camera Ready

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 12:00:00 AM

*$200The PowerShot E1 digital camera by Canon, with 10 megapixels for high resolution and blur-free images, makes things easy.$280Share videos instantly with Samsung’s SC-MX20 camcorder, with modes for web use and online sharing, and a swivel handgrip.$200Fujifilm’s FinePix Z20fd has modes like “dual blog,” which adjusts the size of an image or video to post online or to e-mail.$300With Kodak’s EASYSHARE Z1015 Zoom camera, you have both automatic and manual control and scene-detection modes. $180Kodak’s Zi6 pocket video camera not only captures footage in HD quality, but it can also record hours of video.$130Take hands-free photos and videos with the Liquid Image 5.0 MP underwater camera mask from JCPenney.$330Chronicle your sea adventures with the waterproof Optio W60 by Pentax that takes still photos and video footage. $900Sony’s HDR-CX12 Memory Stick Handycam detects and snaps even the faintest grin; takes still images while recording video. $350Nikon’s COOLPIX S60 camera has a 3.5-inch LCD screen; touch-screen technology allows easy transitions between settings.$180Flip Video Mino camcorder by Pure Digital records 60 minutes of footage, and connects to your laptop with the built-in USB port. $350The compact Everio S series GZ-MS100 camcorder from JVC allows video uploads directly to YouTube. Instant gratification!$300Rough terrain is no problem for the Stylus 850 SW by Olympus. It’s shockproof, waterproof and freezeproof.

Raising the Bar

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:00:00 AM

High SpiritsWhether you’re mixing a martini or uncorking a special bottle for just the two of you, these handy helpers will add a touch of class. All SetStylish tools are part of the fun. Ten-piece set by Calphalon from Bed, Bath & Beyond includes double jigger and bar knife (shown), as well as ice bucket with cover and bottle opener. Six-piece stainless bar tool set by WMF includes a shaker, strainer and jigger in a lucite holder (shown), as well as bar spoon and ice tongs. Green cutting board by Architec. Pop Goes the CorkNever struggle with a corkscrew again! from left: From Peugeot, two-prong corkscrew that gently draws corks out so they don’t crumble, and electric corkscrew that pops up to 200 corks before it needs recharging. Stainless vertical-style corkscrew by Metrokane comes with a foil cutter. Screwpull’s green three-in-one opener can get any bottle open. Wineglass by Rosenthal.Grape StyleWine aficionados love specialized tools. from left: Wine aerator by Vinturi permits the perfect amount of air into wine. Stopper by BonJour. on bottle: Drip ring (around bottle neck) by WMF prevents wine from dripping; clip-on thermometer (above label) by Kikkerland. Cork retriever from Home Bar Source. WMF’s pump keeps wine fresh. Napkins from Paper Products Design.Cocktail ChicTime to shake it up and relax. clockwise from top left: Green martini glass by Leonardo. Curly stainless cocktail pick by Amco Houseworks. Nambé’s winding helix-shaped stainless cocktail shaker. Stainless cocktail strainer by Pedrini from Lifetime Brands. Jigger with rolled rim pours 11⁄2 ounces on one end and 3⁄4 ounce on the other, by Swissmar. Thrills & Chillsby Casey ClemenzaServe up pub-style beer, chilled shots and martinis at home with these nifty appliances. 1. Nostalgia Electrics Chilled Shot Dispenser ($60) chills liquor in a flash. 2. Who needs a pub when you can have the ultimate pressurized draught-beer experience right in your living room with the Krups BeerTender ($299)? You can even customize the brew’s temperature to your taste. 3. Be the life of the party with the Professional Martini Maker by Waring Pro ($99.95); the shaker, which can hold up to 20 ounces of liquor, chills your drink after mixing. Even better, you can have it shaken or stirred—whatever is just right for you! Fridge Flairby Penelope Coleman Wine tastes best when served at the correct temperature. These chic, compact wine refrigerators are perfect for storing your wine collection: Lightweight and quiet, the Cuisinart Private Reserve Wine Cellar (below) ($199) stores up to 12 bottles and is perfectly sized—and priced—for a small space. The Kenmore Elite dual-zone wine cellar ($499.99), which holds up to 38 bottles, keeps both whites and reds at their desired temperatures. The wine refrigerator ($1,484) by KitchenAid has three climate zones, allowing you to chill your sauvignon blanc to its ideal 48º F and your cabernet sauvignon to a just-perfect temperature of 63º F. Cheers! Sipping Tipsby Cassie PotlerDale Degroff, the King of Cocktails and author of The Essential Cocktail (Clarkson Potter), serves up the scoop on drink trends. Sweet drinks, which usually don’t mesh well with food, are now less popular than more bitter drinks, like the Negroni (see below for recipe).The margarita used to be just a summer drink—but no more. Now you’ll see it year-round; for best results, use premium tequila.Instead of sugar, the all-natural liquid sweetener Agave nectar (available at grocery stores) is being used to sweeten drinks.When making drinks at home, it’s stylish to keep things simple, using a maximum of five complementary ingredients.Make Dale’s Negroni: One-third each campari, sweet Italian vermouth and gin. Serve on the rocks with an orange slice.

Kitchen Gadgets

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:00:00 AM

Sleek and simple to use: Whether you’re sifting flour, experimenting with an exotic cuisine or just whisking up salad dressing, you won’t want to do without these great new kitchen helpers. Bon appétit!Silicone paddle whisk is designed to let you scrape and fold at the same time, by Cuisipro. Green silicone spatula by Zyliss. This silicone basting brush’s ball-head bristles make for smooth application, by William Bounds. Ball whisk for mixing salad dressings by WMF Atelier. Orange measuring cup and dual-purpose knife and shears, by KitchenAid for Lifetime Brands. Silicone cookie spatula by William Bounds. Blue silicone high-heat oven mitt by SiliconeZone. Green 5-way bottle opener by Zyliss. Gold flat enamel wall paint by BEHR. Pegboard from Lowe’s.Guess what?These stumped us. See if you can figure out what each of these gadgets does. (No peeking at the answers below.) A. Fruit Scoops by Progressive make it easy to separate ripe fruit from its skin. Red is for carving pumpkins; yellow is for melons; green is for kiwi or zucchini. B. Kiwee knife from Chef ’n has a serrated cutting edge for getting through fuzzy fruit skins, plus a contoured scoop edge for digging the fruit out. C. The Ice Cream Scoop & Stack by Cuisipro makes compact, cylinder-shaped scoops of ice cream to use in ice cream sandwiches. D. The Karim Rashid-designed cordless vacuum by Dirt Devil picks up crumbs and dust quickly.Photography: Alexandra Grablewski.

Cuisine Treasures

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:00:00 AM

Making cupcakes is a breeze with these tools. FROM TOP LEFT: Bowl, angled measuring cup (right), timer (bottom) and wooden spoon (right), all by OXO Good Grips. Flour sifter and measuring cups by Progressive. Yellow brush by Swissmar. Balloon whisk by Kuhn Rikon. Mini bowls by Le Creuset. Blue spatula and spoon rest, both by SiliconeZone. Orange whisk by Trudeau. Liners by Kaiser. Muffin pan by KitchenAid for Lifetime Brands. Baking sheet by Analon.Make short work of prepping veggies and cooking ingredients. CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Mixing bowls by Trudeau. Coarse hand grater for cheese and vegetables; green box grater with three blades (fine, medium and coarse) and one-cup grater, all by KitchenAid for Lifetime Brands. Cutting mat by SiliconeZone. Blue-handled salt-rock hand grater by Microplane. Red serrated peeler for soft-skinned fruits like tomatoes, by Zyliss. Ceramic peeler by Kuhn Rikon. Go global! These tools will help create Mexican, Indian and Asian specialities. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Salsa bowl by Mexican Fiesta. Ceramic knife, mortar and pestle and Indian-motif trivet, all designed by Suvir Saram for Wade Ceramics. Pizza stone by Kitchen Supply Company. Strainer by Joyce Chen. Double lime squeeze and avocado knife (below) by Vasconia for Lifetime Brands. Tortilla press by Mexican Fiesta. Steamer and ginger grater by Joyce Chen. You’ll be a kitchen magician with these. clockwise from left: Kudamono paring knife from J.A. Henckels. Utility knife by Wüsthoff has beveled shapes at its edges to help sticky foods slide off the blade. Green pizza slicer by Zyliss. Lever corkscrew opens wine bottles quickly, by Metrokane. Ceramic knife by Kuhn Rikon. Pizza scissors and cheese knife, both by Progressive. Red-and-white square slicer cuts apples evenly, by KitchenAid for Lifetime Brands.Photography: Alexandra Grablewski.Our Favorite ThingsEvery cook has a tool he or she can’t live without. Here’s what three TV chefs told us.Paula Deen, the star of Food Network’s Paula’s Home Cooking, loves her stirring spoon. ”Like a good seasoned skillet, my grandmother’s wooden spoon adds that special something to everything I make, whether it’s a pot of chili or oyster stew. Call me sentimental, but it’s about function. No kitchen should be without an all-purpose, classic wooden spoon.” Ingrid Hoffmann, star of the Food Network show Simply Delicioso, said that her personal fave is her green lime squeezer. “I use it for everything. Besides juicing limes beautifully, it multitasks as a hammer, meat flattener and shoe horn, and most recently when I couldn’t find my eyelash curler I warmed it on the stove ever so slightly and curled my lashes with it.” —Nicole TrifilioThe host of American Public Television’s Simply Ming, Ming Tsai loves his Kyocera mandolin, a slicing tool that stands on its own. “I’m good at cutting with my knife, but when I’m cooking at home with my wife, we’ll both use this mandolin to make consistent, beautiful slices. I use it to prep ingredients for stir fry; it makes everything super thin so vegetables cook up quickly—a big advantage when you have two hungry children waiting to eat!” Photography: (from top) Courtesy of Food Network; Dari Michelle Photography.

Grilling Tips & Tools

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 AM

Hot Tip: For great grill marks, turn your meat just once, halfway through its cooking time. And never use a fork—it will let the natural juices escape. Create mouthwatering meals—minus the mess and extra prep. Elizabeth Karmel, author of Taming the Flame, tells you how. Choose a gas grill; it’s easy to use. Gone are the days of fussing with messy charcoal, smelly lighter fluid and out-of-control flames. Most grills are equipped for the direct cooking method, with the heat source located directly beneath the food, but make certain yours is also configured to cook with an indirect heat source—best for cooking larger cuts of meat. And look for a larger model than you think you’ll need; once you master the BBQ basics, you’ll want to use your grill all the time.Fire ’er up. Preheat your grill for 15 to 20 minutes, using olive oil, kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Grilling meats and veggies after coating them with a minute amount of oil will encourage carmelization, prevent sticking and keep in natural juices. Cook at a moderate temperature after preheating, and make sure not to oil the grates—the top of the grill will get sticky, causing the food to burn. To clean up (don’t worry, it’s a cinch), simply leave the heat on for 10 to 15 minutes after you finish cooking, and scrape the grates with a brass-bristle brush (a stainless brush can damage the finish). Don’t scrub down your grill with soap and water; similar to a cast-iron skillet, it will naturally absorb fats and juices and after a while become “seasoned.” This is what gives you that great BBQ flavor.Tools of the Trade Two pairs of extra-long tongs to prevent cross-contamination: one for raw food and the other for cooked foods.A brass-bristle cleaning brush to rub down the grates after grilling.An instant-read meat thermometer to ensure food is done to perfection.A long silicone oven mitt, which will withstand high heat and is easy to clean.A basic spatula, either metal or silicone, for turning thinner cuts of meat and vegetables.Photography: (Portrait) Eric Futran; (Tools) Grill Friends; (Book) John Wiley and Sons.

Fashion Designer Creates Stylish Tableware

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 12:00:00 AM

From top: Femme Fatale dinnerware; Femme Fatale cups, saucers and coffee pot; Étoile Platinum dinnerware, all from the Monique Lhuillier for Royal Doulton collection.Q: As a fashion designer, what was important to you to include in your new tabletop collection?A: Each bridal gown I create is made of the finest materials, allowing a bride to feel like herself—yet at the same time look extremely elegant and refined. I wanted to bring these same design ideals to everyday living. My dinnerware patterns—there are five—aren’t a direct translation of specific gowns, but their influence is evident in the use of rich colors and plays on texture, especially pearlescent overlays and raised-design features. For instance, the Femme Fatale dinnerware line is done in a pearlized gray, lizard-inspired print that I use in my ready-to-wear line. Q: You’ve said that your travels have been a huge influence on your design sensibilities. How so?A: Though my design tendencies keep evolving, they have always focused on luxury, glamour and sophistication. I’ve traveled to France often, so as a result, many of the shapes in my dinnerware lines have been inspired by European design—the teacup shaped like a tin can, for instance, and the oversize flatware. In Europe, dining is about more than just eating; it also has to do with sharing time with loved ones. It was my goal to encourage new couples and their families and friends to come together, even for coffee. Q: You’ve also mentioned the influence that your mother has had on your designs. What did you learn from her?A: My mother is extremely stylish and made a point of using our fine china all the time. So I wanted to introduce high-quality products for daily use in order to redefine what modern luxury should be. Q: Is it realistic to suggest that we all use elegant dinnerware every day?A: Most people don’t realize that fine china is actually extremely durable. And my entire collection of dinnerware is made of bone china—the strongest on the market—and can go right from the table into the dishwasher. Each line includes basic staples, yet is versatile enough to accommodate any dining occasion. I am completely at ease using these dishes, for everything from entertaining with caviar and champagne to having a simple take-out meal with my family. The same is true for my crystal pieces—I’ve designed stemware, barware and accessories that I hope people will use every day. For example, filling my Atelier crystal vases and bowls with fresh flowers is an easy, beautiful way to create ambience in any room.Q: What is your favorite wedding gift to give to family and friends?A: I love to give china and crystal. As I’ve said, china fulfills a variety of needs, particularly for a new couple, and crystal is an elegant and timeless addition to the home and will last a lifetime. I’m really excited to give lots of pieces from my new collection. What is more, the hatbox packaging is so gorgeous, I won’t even have to wrap them!Monique Recommends:Before you walk into a store to register, think about the key pieces that you are missing in your home. Try to avoid randomly selecting gadgets you will never use. Consider your lifestyle when registering. Are you big coffee drinkers? Be sure to sign up for latte mugs and espresso cups. You can never have too many of these basic items.When choosing items, make sure to involve your fiancé. Men usually appreciate barware and certain flatware shapes, so start there. Photography: (still life) courtesy of Royal Doulton.

The Joy of Tech

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 12:00:00 AM

Stay TunedSet up your own super-cool media center with some of the newest toys on the block. From top: 32” LCD HDTV with 178-degree-angle view by Panasonic. Mahogany-veneer console table by Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams. Striped vase by Jonathan Adler Happy Home for the Zrike Company. Bose Triport On-Ear Headphones effectively keep out all superfluous noise and give music life-like clarity. Bowl and small dishes by Sur la Table. Floral pillow and lime wool throw by Company C. Oversize universal remote by Innovage Products from JCPenney feaures soft buttons and controls up to eight devices, such as a TV, VCR and DVD player. Blue linen armchair by Maine Cottage. GOLDEN OLDIE The MP3 file of Crosley’s vintage-style Director CD Recorder from Target holds up to 200 songs. Other features: a three-speed record player and AM/FM radio with a handy remote control. MOVIE MAGIC This lightweight (1.5 pounds), palm-size Pocket Imager projector by Samsung can be taken anywhere you want to screen a favorite movie. All you need is a wall to project it on. And a tub of popcorn. MUSIC MANAGER Philips Bluetooth Wireless Music System Model BTM630 plays an MP3 and songs stored on a cellphone; it also plays and charges your iPod. Included is a handy all-in-one remote. EASY LISTENING The mid-century modern style of Tivoli’s Audio Music System is enhanced by an exotic wood finish with a snazzy bronze faceplate. The system has a shuffle option for CDs and an AM/FM radio.GAME ON Nintendo’s Wii game station allows players to manipulate the controller (which looks and acts like a remote control), using it as a baseball bat, golf club, tennis racket or a sword—your choice. GET THE SKINNY Samsung’s single-deck DVD-R155 player has a slim 1.77-inch width; for crisp picture quality it may be converted for use with HDTV. Non-techies will love the one-button record feature.TV FOR TWO Don’t be fooled by its modest 7-inch width—Philips has managed to pack a lot of functions into its compact iPod dock and DVD player. The screen swivels 180 degrees for better viewing from any angle. HAPPY DAYS Fifties-style retro popcorn maker by Nostalgia Electrics uses hot air (instead of oil) to make a great nonfat treat—without the butter! It provides a big bowl of popcorn—perfect for movie night chez vous. REEL TIME Epson’s all-in-one MovieMate 50 is a DVD player/projector and 5.1 Dolby Digital cinema-quality sound system that projects films eight times larger than a 40” TV. A built-in handle lets it travel. Get ConnectedMatt Dworkin from the Geek Squad at Best Buy stores has tips for installing a home-entertainment system. To receive HD channels, have your cable company add the HD package to your existing service. Buy high-quality cables to connect your TV. The $2 ones that come with the set simply won’t cut it. Home-theater setups are sensitive; all the parts—the TV, speakers and DVD players—draw a lot of power. So before plugging them in, get a surge protector (preferably one designed specifically for home theater). With a universal remote you can automatically program all your devices, cutting the need for multiple remotes for your TV, DVD player and music system, not to mention clutter. To simplify a home-theater system, use your computer’s wireless network. This way you can play videos, music or a slide show on your TV screen.Speak up!These cool speakers offer easy listening for the ears and are easy on the eyes. Eos’ Wireless Stereo Speaker System and Subwoofer Klipsch F-3 floor-standing speakers Panasonic’s SB-TP100 5.1 Channel Tower Speaker System Keep the tunes coming—indoors or out—with compact, portable Acoustic Research Wireless Stereo Speakers ($199.99). The speakers hook up easily to most TVs, DVD players, computers and MP3 players. Want great music in every room of the house at a terrific price? Eos’ Wireless Stereo Speaker System and Subwoofer ($299.95) will do the trick. It includes a base station plus a set of speakers. The portable dock not only plays but charges your iPod: You can listen to it from up to 150 feet away indoors and 300 outdoors.Multitasking is the name of the game with this CD player, cassette player and radio Mini Hi-Fi System ($399.95) by Sony. With optional stage lights that can be added on for visual effects, it’s the only piece of equipment you’ll need to get the party started. How cool is that?Here’s something you’ll both agree on. With high-quality sound and a modern design with black finish and titanium accents, these Klipsch F-3 floor-standing speakers ($850 per pair) make a stylish statement. Plus, they’re great for the space challenged—they can sit right on the floor. No need for a large media unit. Want to splurge? Panasonic’s SB-TP100 5.1 Channel Tower Speaker System ($1,699.95) was designed to enhance the experience of HDTV with an astounding five separate speakers that can stand or be mounted on your wall. The speakers’ height can be adjusted to three different levels, so you can align them with your seating position for perfect sound quality. —Haley Longman Photography: David Kressler

The Newest Coffee Gadgets

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 12:00:00 AM

There goes the alarm! Face the world fortified by a delicious cup of coffee concocted by one of the amazing machines featured in our roundup. Whether a dense, thick brew from a French press is your favorite choice, or you prefer the milder flavor produced by a drip machine, we have appliances to perk you up. Plus, check out fun new coffee gadgets, as well as expert information on the latest bean trends. Is it morning yet?FROM TOP: Striped mugs from Nautica by Lifetime Brands. Yellow salad plate by Oneida. Orange-bordered square plate by Villeroy & Boch. Small square striped porcelain dish from Nautica by Lifetime Brands. Moda stainless spoon by Oneida. Yellow polka dot napkin and linen napkin with green scallop accent, both by ABH Design. Birch-veneer side table by Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams. Central PerkCheck out these new and nifty coffee accoutrements.TOP SHELF, FROM LEFT: Pink Mukka Express stovetop espresso maker by Bialetti. Blade coffee-bean grinder by Krups. Bodum’s Bistro Mug Press has a scaled-down coffee-press system that fits neatly into any mug. MIDDLE SHELF, FROM LEFT: Cuisinart’s Supreme Grind burr grinder has 18 choices of grind, from ultrafine to extra coarse. For brewing two cups of coffee at the same time, try the dual-cup drip machine by Black & Decker from Target. Stainless coffee canister with scoop by WMF. Use coffee pods or tea pods in the Mr. Coffee Simple Brew one-cup coffeemaker. Striped mug from Nautica by Lifetime Brands. Cream and sugar set by Fiesta Tableware from The Homer Laughlin China Company. BOTTOM SHELF, FROM LEFT: A reusable gold filter distinguishes Bodum’s Bistro Double-Wall Glass Drip coffeemaker. Saeco’s Talea Ring Plus has a fun to use iPod-like interface that helps select programmable settings, like coffee strength. Espresso cup and saucer by Yedi. The Copper Maximus French press by Bonjour makes up to 8 cups. Blue 12-cup drip coffeemaker by Hamilton Beach. Paintables wallpaper from Waverly, painted with Benjamin Moore’s Hydrangea Blue. Shelves from Lowes.Great GizmosGet a kick from caffeine? Try these hot new products.1231. True coffee lovers will get into a froth over Aerolatte’s Deluxe Stainless Steel Handheld Milk Frother. In just 60 seconds you can enjoy your brew topped off with delicious foam. 2. With patterns inspired by African textiles, these beautifully designed mugs and saucer sets by Villeroy & Boch have a modern twist: The mug and its handle are all of one continuous piece of fine china. 3. Try this: Put loose coffee grounds in a cup, pour hot water over them, let steep, then sip through the glass straw by Wisdom Wands. The filter in the base of the straw catches the grinds. Plus, using a straw helps keep the coffee from staining your pearly whites. Now, how clever is that?4. At last—something to protect all of us klutzes from commuter spills: OXO Good Grips LiquiSeal Thermal Beverage Container features a special triple-seal lock and a no-drip drinking spout. You just click a button to drink, and click again to seal up. 5. Love to dunk? The Mocha Dunk Mug is made just for you. An open shelf built into the base lets you slide a biscotti in and out. Sip and nibble to your heart’s content—no need for an extra dish. 6. The Toddy Cold Brewed Coffee System is great for reducing the acidity in your coffee. For the best results, place grounds into the brewing container, add water and allow to brew for half a day. Then add hot water or milk to the delicious coffee concentrate. 7. This’ll impress ’em: Danesco’s Cappuccino Duster allows you to decorate your beverage. Simply fill the shaker with cinnamon, chocolate or nutmeg, then place a stencil shape—a heart, coffee cup or star—into the top of the shaker. Pour a pretty pattern on. How sweet it is.—Elena CareyFull of BeansMelissa Niosi, coffee expert for Saeco’s website, (saecouniversity.com), offers a few pointers.Single origin: This means that a coffee’s beans are derived from one source and roasted in a particular way to produce a single main flavor component (for example, a French- Mexican coffee consisting of French roasted Mexican beans). Blend: Coffee that’s made from several bean varieties, like a small peaberry bean, which grows closer to the end of a branch, and a Guatemalan bean. Fair trade: The New York Coffee Exchange has set a minimum price for coffee beans, which is designed to protect the financial interests of smaller coffee-bean producers.Organic beans: These are grown in soil untreated with pesticides. The coffee trees are not sprayed with pesticides, and the beans are washed and processed without chemicals.

Tips for Creating Your Wedding Registry

Fri, 02 Mar 2001 12:00:00 AM

One of the great pleasures of getting married is all the wonderful wedding gifts you receive. From the minute you get engaged, tokens of congratulations will be offered until well after your wedding day. But being the recipient of so many gifts comes with obligations as well: Every giver deserves a prompt, handwritten thank-you (see our guide to Thank You Notes for tips), and there are many courtesies you need to be aware of for dealing with unwanted or damaged gifts. Here's everything you need to know to be a gracious recipient. Registering Your PreferencesThe bridal gift registry has to be one of the greatest inventions, for both engaged couples and guests alike. Available through most major department stores nationwide, as well as many smaller specialty stores, mail-order catalogs and websites, the wedding gift registry is a computerized operation that allows you to list your gift selections in every category, from china to sporting-goods equipment. Guests, who are informed of your choices by word of mouth or on shower invitations, (never on wedding invitations!), can then log on, call or drop by the store and select a wedding gift from your list.Be sure to register as far in advance of the wedding as possible, and include items in a variety of price ranges to suit everyones budget (shower gifts are generally less expensive than wedding gifts; your friends may have less to spend on a gift than older relatives, etc.) Take your fiance with you; these are decisions you two should make together, since you'll both be living with the results. When you register, you can indicate the address you'd like gifts delivered to, and many stores will let you specify delivery dates so, for example, packages aren't left while you're away on your honeymoon. Planning Tip: Register nine months before your wedding to make room for any mishaps with your gift registry. Keep yourself organized with our Wedding Countdown Calendar >>When It's Not Quite RightThe beauty of the registry is that you avoid duplicate gifts, since the items are checked off your list as they're purchased. Occasionally, however, errors are made and you do end up with two of the same thing, or with an incorrect item. In such instances, you can contact the registry directly and have the item replaced with something of equal value on your list, or perhaps even receive a cash refund to do with as you please. Either way, there is no need to inform the gift giver. Simply thank him or her and let the error go undisclosed. Likewise, should you receive a damaged gift, you can make arrangements to have it replaced by the store (whether you were registered there or not), so you needn't trouble the giver who would no doubt be upset. Of course, every couple is bound to receive wedding gifts they don't want or need, and you must be tactful about handling such a situation. You should never tell a gift giver that you didn't like the selection, but if it's clear where the gift came from, you can arrange to exchange it on your own. If the gift came from an important friend or relative who would be hurt if you didn't use it, you should keep the gift on hand and make a point to get it out of the box for occasions when you know the giver will see it.

Appliance Guide

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 12:00:00 AM

Your bridal registry can include a lot more than pretty china and linens - this is also your chance to trade up to high-quality appliances. Here's what to look for as you add some power to your list. ToastersMicrowavesBlendersFood ProcessorsVacuum CleanersToastersFor your morning quickies (we're talking breakfast here), toast is a good bet, not to mention bagels or frozen waffles. And happily, today's toasters have brought breads browned just the way you like them down to an exact science. The newest toasters rely on electronic mechanists and computer technology. Smart toasters - imagine that! Manufacturers talk about their "application- specific integrated circuit" or "computer chip brain." But whatever the lingo, the idea is the same: to monitor conditions inside and outside the toaster to that you get perfect toast, slice after slice. The latest models are now equipped to adjust toasting time accordingly and give you lots of handy features, like these: Ample slots: You want a toaster with slots wide and long enough to hold an extensive variety of breads, bagels and pastries. If you like your bread sliced nice and thick, be sure the slots are at least an inch and quarter wide. Adjustability: Because sometimes you'll want to toast thin slices of bread, look for adjustable grids that automatically center the bread for even toasting on both sides. Lots of options: He likes his toast dark, you like it barely beige. Look for several options in browning as well as ease of selection. Fancy features: A cancel button which allows you to stop the toasting process midway is a nice feature. So is a reheat button which warms previously toasted bread without making it darker. Defrost capability: If you're a fan of frozen waffles, look for a toaster that will thaw and then toast frozen items in one process. Best for bagels: A switch preventing over-toasting of the outside of the bagel should give excellent results every time. Popper-uppers: The newest toasters have a "high lift" mechanism which pops toast higher so you cam remove it without toasting your fingertips. Easy cleaning: Look for a removeable crumb tray to make emptying simpler. Safety: A model that's "cool to the touch" protects you from burning yourself, cord storage keeps things tidy, and an auto safety shut-off cuts the power when a piece of bread becomes lodged in the machine - preventing it from burning up or possibly starting a fire. Size matters: Consider whether you want a two- or four-slice unit. The larger units are great if you often have guests for breakfast - but they take up more space, use more energy and cost a little more, so unless you often make toast for several people, a four-slice toaster probably isn't necessary. MicrowavesAre hot water, popcorn and pizza the only edible things that come out of your circa-1980s microwave? Well, that's a shame, because in today's microwaves you can automatically defrost by weight and number of servings, program a keypad to suit the size of a popcorn pouch, and prepare delicate and complicated recipes in a flash of high-tech know-how. Here's what to consider in a microwave oven, starting with size and power. If you'll use the microwave infrequently for tasks such as heating frozen dinners, popcorn and beverages, a model with 0.5- to 0.8-cubic-foot capacity and 600 to 700 watts of power (the higher the wattage, the quicker the cooking time at a high power setting) will suffice. For moderate use, such as defrosting and thoroughly cooking large items like casseroles, you'll want one with 1.0- to 1.3-cubic-foot capacity and 800 to 900 watts of power. A large microwave or combination microwave/convection oven with up to 1.6-cubic-foot capacity and 1,000 watts of power will accomplish almost any cooking chore and see you through many years of both quick snacks and full meals. Once you've determined the size and power of the model you'll need, it's time to peruse the array of automatic, sensor-controlled and timed features available on the newer models. Although three power levels will probably suffice for most recipes, mid-size and larger models usually come with ten. A turntable, preferable easy to remove and dishwasher-safe, greatly contributes to the even heating of foods. If you'll frequently prepare such convenience foods as popcorn and frozen dinners, one-touch cooking settings for these goodies are a must. Although not a one-touch function on all models, programmed cooking settings have been expanded to cook more substantial foods, such as pasta, rice, shellfish and whole or pieced chicken automatically and accurately. You simply enter the type of food and the weight or number of servings. And if you're really picky about your popcorn, check out models that have a programmable key for three sizes of popcorn pouches. A multi-step cooking mode allows you to program the appliance to complete several actions (usually two to four) in sequence. For instance, you can set the microwave to automatically defrost, then cook food on medium power for a certain length of time, and finally switch to high power for another length of time. In addition to convenient cooking controls, you'll appreciate defrost and reheat modes. Although most microwaves allow you to set the amount of time needed to thaw frozen food and warm leftovers manually, more advance models automatically calculate the time and power required for these operations based on the weight of the food, which you enter on a keypad. Many top-of-the-line microwaves can also defrost and reheat according to the type of food (you select from a pre-programmed menu of items) and the number of servings. Add-time cooking and defrost modes continue these functions for 30 to 60 seconds. As for ease of use, a legible control panel, an interior oven light and a system of interactive prompts (either in a scrolling digital readout or a "pathway" series of lighted buttons) are user-friendly features. If you'll frequently cook large cuts of meat and poultry, consider a model with a temperature probe (an electric thermometer attachment that automatically turns off the oven when the food reaches the right temperature). And for beautifully browned baked foods, look for a combination microwave/convection oven in which a convection fan circulates hot air. You'll also find models that have an automatic Daylight Savings Time adjustment, programmable controls for U.S. and metric measurements, and your choice of English, Spanish or French readouts. When it comes to style, today's models come in a variety of finishes to suit your kitchen. Sleek stainless-steel and bright I-Mac hues are currently popular. BlendersThere's no question about it: To get the party going, you've gotta get a blender. In addition to mixing up strawberry daiquiris and churning out chocolate smoothies, this essential small appliance can chop and puree all manner of foods (a necessity for homemade soups and many other recipes), and even grind coffee beans and nuts. Although it can't do all the jobs of a top-of-the-line food processor, a blender is a versatile, easy-to-clean and operate machine that's been helping out in American kitchens for more than 70 years. There are two types of blenders: handheld models, also called immersion blenders, and the standard countertop machines that are much like the ones your mom and grandmother have used for years. The newest models offer more features than ever. Keep in mind that a model with removable and dishwasher-proof parts will be the easiest to clean. As for the choice of jar materials, glass will generally be more scratch-resistant and will do a better job of maintaining the temperature of your mixture (keeping cold drinks cold, for example) than plastic jars. A glass container, however, is obviously breakable, and heavier to lift. The design of the base and control panel are also important to consider. Buttons, dials and switches should be accessible, but not easy to turn on accidentally. Blender fact: Splatters...

Kitchen Registry Guide

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 12:00:00 AM

In addition to china, crystal, fine linens and other traditional gift items, your bridal registry is the ideal time to fully stock your kitchen. Here are our recommendations for what to include on your list—the actual cooking is up to you. Cookware MaterialsCookware ShapesSmall AppliancesKnife Know-HowStorage ContainersKitchen Gadgets Cookware MaterialsCookware (primarily used on top of the stove) and bakeware (usually for use in the oven) can be divided into categories according to the materials they’re made of. The choice of material is important, because each conducts heat differently. Aluminum: Used in 52% of all cookware made, this is the second-best heat conductor. Make certain to choose cookware that is either coated on the inside with a nonstick surface or hard-anodized. Stainless steel: Known for its shiny finish and durability, it can usually go into the dishwasher or be cleaned by hand without scratching. It’s not a fast heat conductor, but makers have compensated for this by layering the bottoms with heat-dispersing aluminum and copper. Copper: While this is the best heat conductor for cookware, it’s also the most expensive and takes a lot of care to keep shiny and in tip-top shape. If you’re considering copper, make sure the pans are lined properly (usually with stainless steel) in order to protect the copper from reacting with the food. Cast iron: Old-fashioned black cast-iron pans retain heat well, thereby ensuring evenly cooked foods. Newer lines, with nonstick enamel coating in a rainbow of colors, are quite easy to maintain. Glass: Extremely versatile, you can use it in both conventional and microwave ovens and then put it in the dishwasher. Glass pots are also treasured for their see-through visibility, especially when cooking foods that burn easily or that need to be steamed without taking the lid off. The downside, however, is that food sticks to glass, making it tough to clean and prone to discolor. Nonstick: This sleek material (Teflon was one of the first) is used to coat the inside of cookware and bakeware, keeping food from sticking and scorching. With it, you’ll use less butter and oil to cook your foods, and cleanup is virtually effortless. Cookware ShapesPurchase a starter set of cookware to begin with; buying pots and pans individually can cost a lot more. Then, over time, add specialty items that you feel you’ll use. Butter warmer: A very small (usually 1/2-quart) saucepan, often with a pouring spout, that quickly melts butter and heats small amounts of sauces or other foods. Casserole/Dutch oven: This large (usually 4-quart), heavy, practical pot can be used for cooking both on the stove top and in the oven. It usually has two handles, and when covered easily simmers, stews or bakes. Skillet: A wide pan with sloped 2-inch sides, it fries and sautés rapidly. It’s helpful to have at least three different sizes of skillets or omelet pans (from 8 to 14 inches in diameter), some with nonstick coating. Saucepan: These deep and wide pans heat liquids, such as sauces and stocks, and foods like hot cereal, rice and frozen veggies. Start your kitchen with 1-, 2- and 3-quart covered saucepans to cook up various dishes. Sauté pan: Similar in function to the skillet, this nifty cooker has short sides and a high handle that’s easier to work with. Stockpot: The largest pot (8- or 12-quart) in the kitchen, it’s ideal for cooking up big batches of chili, soups or stews and boiling the water for pasta—register for one with an insert for quick draining. Wok or stir-fry pan: A deep, round pan that allows you to push quickly cooked ingredients, such as delicate vegetables, to its cooler sides, while cooking other foods, like meat, in its super-hot center. Small AppliancesSmall appliances are nifty devices guaranteed to save time and storage space and make your life a lot easier, whether you’re chopping up vegetables or making a batch of brownies. Blender: Generally used for liquids, this is one device you won’t want to do without. Though the blender is best known for serving up frozen cocktails, you can also make homemade tomato sauce, purée a vegetable soup, or shake up a healthy fruit smoothie in this multiuse appliance. Bread machine: Pour in the ingredients, push some buttons, wait a few hours for the "done" signal and you’ll have a fresh golden-brown loaf. Most bread machines also make pizza dough and sweet rolls as well. Coffee/cappuccino maker: Today’s models allow you to serve up coffee, espresso and cappuccino with ease. High-tech features, such as a programmable timer, will allow you to wake up to the stimulating smell of fresh morning brew. There are even versions that grind fresh beans and brew the coffee all in one, and models that serve up your favorite iced java, for the true coffee connoisseur. Electric mixer: This appliance comes in both upright (stand) and handheld versions and will have you making batches of cookies faster than the Keebler elves. It can also make quiche, whipped cream and mousse a snap to fix. If you cook and bake frequently and have enough counter space, register for a larger, more powerful stand mixer. Food processor: Great for shredding and slicing meats and for chopping vegetables, a food processor allows you to whip up meals in a flash. Some of these time-savers also grate cheese, blend peanut butter and mix bread dough. If you’ll do a lot of entertaining, invest in a deluxe model with all the attachments. If you’ll host only modest parties or basic dinners for two, opt for a simpler, no-frills version (and a smaller mini chopper, which is great for puréeing ingredients for dips and sauces). Hand blender: This compact appliance is the ultimate in convenience - you simply immerse it into a stock pot to purée ingredients for that tomato basil soup, or lower it into a glass filled with ice cream and milk for a mess-free milkshake. Indoor barbecue: Long for the taste of grilled foods year-round? Try a smokeless indoor barbecue to sear meats and other foods quickly. Great for entertaining, you can set one up right on your countertop and wow your guests with yummy kebabs. Juicer: Health-conscious couples love this appliance (the juice made from a juicer is packed with nutrients)—it separates liquids from solids (or pulp) and filters out seeds. A manual version is best for smooth, old-fashioned orange juice. If you want both vegetable (like a beet-carrot-celery combo) and fruit juices, register for an electric juice extractor with a citrus attachment. Microwave: Extremely valuable for your fast-paced life, a good microwave allows you to cook meals quickly (not just reheat them), and defrost frozen foods. Look for features that simplify the process and make things even faster, like a rotating table for even heating. Programmable settings will allow you to touch a single preset control to cook specific foods, such as potatoes, bacon and popcorn. Pasta maker: Just pull out this appliance and mix together the ingredients you’ll need for soft, fresh pasta. Most pasta makers include a number of attachments for a variety of noodle shapes. Pressure cooker: Today’s versions are completely safe (no exploding tops like in the last generation) and great for whipping up one-pot meals in a matter of minutes. Some models even come equipped with a nonstick interior for easy cleanup when you attempt that gooey but delicious risotto. Slow cooker: Prepare your ingredients in the morning, put them into this plug-in appliance and it will safely cook your meal at low heat for hours. Perfect for entertaining, some models even come with a sporty nylon carrying case for taking on the road. Toaster/toaster oven: Used for making grilled-cheese sandwiches, broiled hors d’oeuvres and crispy bagels, the toaster oven (which allows you to lay your breads flat) is sure to become a well-used item in your kitchen. If you register for a conventional upright toaster, check out the latest models with extra-wide slots and micro-chip technology....

Caring for Your Wedding Gifts

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 12:00:00 AM

If you're like many people, you probably grew up with the idea that your parents' wedding china, crystal, and sterling silver were too precious to be used on any but the most special occasions. Well, were here to give you permission to enjoy your gifts on a daily basis. With a little bit of TLC, you can upgrade your tabletop without fear, whether you're serving up a gourmet meal or a large pepperoni pizza. Here's how to handle your shiny new gifts. Sterling SilverSterling silver is elegant and highly affordable, making it the best flatware investment a couple can make. Think sterling is too formal for your fast-paced lifestyle? Au contraire—by practicing some basic maintenance, your sterling can fit the bill for everyday use. In fact, maintaining sterling flatware is easier if it's used every day. Frequent handling, washing and drying reduces tarnish, helping the pieces develop the rich glow known as patina. Silverware should be rinsed immediately after use, especially after contact with any acidic or corrosive foods such as salt, mayonnaise or eggs. Sterling can actually go in the dishwasher—with these precautions: Keep detergent to a minimum Remove the flatware before the drying cycle and hand dry it with a soft cloth Never put stainless steel flatware and sterling in the same basket because direct contact of the two metals can permanently damage the silver. You can wash sterling by hand if you prefer.To remove tarnish, polish silverware with a soft cotton or flannel cloth and use a brand-name liquid or paste silver polish. If you use your silverware regularly, expect to polish it just once or twice a year. If it's not in regular use, store silverware in an airtight chest. If you register for sterling, register for a silver chest as well, or protective bags made of tarnish-proof cloth, as silvers worst enemies are sunlight and moisture. To prevent scratching, always be gentle with your silver. Dont store silverware loose in drawers where pieces can jostle against each other. And never wrap your silver in plastic, aluminum foil or newspaper, or bind it with rubber bands. ChinaAlthough porcelain and bone china are lightweight and delicate-looking, they are actually quite durable. Follow these tips to get years of use out of your china. For safe washing: It's fine to put china in the dishwasher, but be careful not to stack pieces too close together to avoid chipping. The same goes for stoneware and earthenware (provided that their glazes are waterproof). If handwashing china, place a rubber mat in the bottom of the sink to cushion against breakage. Keep china out of the oven and the refrigerator, as temperature extremes may cause it to crack. For safe storage: Stack pieces carefully in like-sized piles, with protective felt pads or paper towels in between. Avoid sliding plates over one another—instead, lift each one to remove it from a stack. Never nest cups, and only use cup hooks if theyre coated with rubber or plastic. Follow those simple guidelines, and there's no reason to save the "good china" for special occasions. CrystalThe finishing touch to a table, crystal needs a bit of extra attention to stay sparkling. You should never put crystal in the dishwasher, as the detergent used may react with the lead and give the glassware a bluish cast. Instead, wash crystal by hand in hot soapy water (use a mild dish soap), and clean intricate patterns with a soft brush. To avoid water spots, dry immediately with a linen or cotton towel. Adding a drop of ammonia to the dishwater will give glassware extra sparkle; just be sure to rinse thoroughly. Never store crystal upside down—the rim is the most fragile portion of the glass. Instead, stand glassware straight up in a safe place, such as a china cabinet, or repack it in its original box.

Indian Touches for Your Home

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 12:00:00 AM

Hurricane Season The painted detail on these colored, translucent-glass hurricanes from HomeGoods adds a touch of foreign intrigue to your romantic dinner. Bronze AgeThis bronze-plated hanging lantern by West Elm beautifully illuminates a deck or patio: Simply insert a candle and enjoy seeing the light twinkle through the perforated sunburst pattern. Imperial EntranceTo charm an entryway, Andrea by Sadek offers a captivating, flared peacock vase and matching pink elephant cachepot. The cachepot catches your keys and pocket change, while the vase begs for an enchanting bouquet of wild irises. Fancy Feathers Add a whimsical touch to dinner with Tracy Porter's hand-painted peacock salad servers. The collection was inspired by the exotic childhood pets raised on her farm—including peacocks! Pillow TalkLounge like a pasha on a comfy, round silk cushion, covered in a bright paisley print with metallic threading. The beaded throw pillow will brilliantly dress up a sofa or loveseat. Both from ABC Carpet and Home. Spice of LifeWith L'Objet's platter, dessert plate and mug trio, you'll end an elegant evening with a flourish. Their 14K gold trim, sienna palette and intricate tapestry pattern evoke the sensual beauty and sophistication of the Far East.

Charming Sugar/Creamer Collectibles

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 12:00:00 AM

Counterclockwise from top: Chic ChicoryEnhance the feminine aura of your next coffee klatsch with this charming duo by Kim Parker for Spode. Chicory flowers, popular in many of her designs, inspired the whimsical pattern.Hot SpotsAdd a bit of esprit to very special tea times with this cheery set from Rosanna that combines playful dots with a sophisticated shape. Cottage ComfortBring the Irish countryside a little closer with Pfaltzgraff's stoneware sugar and creamer set. The pretty purple tulips and Celtic-style embossments lend cozy notes to your table.Seeing RedBuffalo China's cherry-red set not only adds a pop of color to your table setting, it also offers a striking contrast to sugar and cream.Blue NoteHave a serene tea or coffee break with Kate Spade's bone china set. The ruffled-edge design offers a subtle hint of waves at sea.English GardenEnjoy beautiful blooms on your table year round with this porcelain rose-design tea set from Portmeirion. You can practically smell the roses!Rising SunVivid crimson spots, dramatically set against a black background, give Haviland's Asian-inspired set a minimalist twist—for a perfect feng-shui effect. Photography: Alexandra Grablewski. Shelves from Home Depot. Paint by Behr Paints.