Gifts & Registry

Timeless Elegance: Mixing Heirloom China and Crystal with Modern Designs from Bering’s

February 10

In a world where trends come and go, there is something undeniably special about heirloom china and crystal. These cherished pieces, often passed down through generations, carry with them a sense of history, family memories, and timeless beauty– When picking out your bridal registry selections, it is always exciting to think about how you can incorporate family pieces with new items to make them your own. Blending the old with the new doesn’t just preserve these treasures—it elevates them.

At Bering’s, our team of experts is here to help you find your unique style and show you how to mix heirloom china and crystal with modern designs from brands like Herend, Mottahedeh, Waterford, and Baccarat. We encourage our brides to bring in any heirloom pieces they would like to keep in the mix with their new settings so we can find the perfect pairing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or setting your table for a special occasion, this guide will show you how to create a stunning, cohesive look that honors tradition while embracing today’s aesthetics.

Bering’s Experts Tip: One of the best ways to keep your heirloom pieces feeling current is to incorporate them into your everyday life. These pieces can be more than just display items, they can be functional and add personality to modern table settings and home decor, serving as a link between your past and present. A beautiful soup tureen can easily be turned into a stunning flower vase for a living room console table. A crystal rose bowl can also double as a chic holder for makeup brushes on a vanity.

Photo Courtesy of Bering’s

Styling Tips: Blending Old with New

Mixing heirloom items with modern pieces requires an eye for balance and creativity. Here are styling tips from Bering’s experts to help you blend the old and new effortlessly:

Color Coordination: Choose modern pieces that pick up complementary colors with your heirloom china. Herend Rothschild Bird or Mottahedeh Tobacco Leaf are good examples of patterns that offer varying color palettes to mix and match with.

Pattern Mixing: Mixing patterns can be tricky, but it’s all about contrast. Pair bold patterns, like Oriente Italiano from Ginori with a clean modern design from William Yeoward in the accompanying crystal stemware. The key is to make sure the pieces complement each other without overwhelming the space.

Layering Techniques: Layering is an effective way to mix modern and vintage. Start with your heirloom plates layer with newer pieces like glass chargers, soup bowls, linens, and modern flatware. This layering technique creates depth and draws attention to both your cherished pieces and the new additions.

Bering’s Experts Tip: When setting a table, think of it as an art form. Try mixing modern and traditional pieces in unexpected ways—such as pairing vintage crystal stemware with a modern Ming vase for your table centerpiece—to create a beautiful visual contrast.

Photo Courtesy of Bering’s

Creative Table Setting Ideas

A table setting is more than just a place to eat; it is an opportunity to showcase your unique style and blend the past and present. Here are ideas to help you create a memorable dining experience:

Seasonal Themes: Use your heirloom pieces as a foundation for seasonal table settings. Incorporate seasonal elements such as flowers, linens, or colored stemware to complement both your vintage china and modern glassware. There is always an occasion to celebrate whether it is a Valentine’s dinner, a special birthday or just a Saturday night at home.

Centerpiece Inspiration: For a striking table centerpiece, mix heirloom pieces with modern accents. A vintage candelabra looks wonderful with modern lacquer candles and clusters of small posey vases lining the center of a table.

Bering’s Experts Tip: Remember that centerpieces do not always need to be symmetrical. Play with height and texture to add dimension to your table, mixing to the old and new creates a dynamic yet cohesive arrangement.

Photo Courtesy of Bering’s

When it comes to updating your heirloom collection, the right modern pieces can make all the difference. See which of our featured styles fits you best:

Which color palette resonates with you the most?

A. Vibrant and diverse
B. Rich and opulent
C. Sleek and bold
D. Soft and timeless

How would you describe your home décor?

A. Eclectic and lively
B. Luxurious and ornate
C. Contemporary and trendy
D. Traditional and enduring

When hosting guests, your table setting is:

A. A mix of patterns and colors
B. Elaborate with intricate details
C. Innovative with unique pieces
D. Classic with coordinated settings

Which art style appeals to you the most?

A. Abstract and colorful
B. Baroque and detailed
C. Modern and experimental
D. Renaissance and balanced

Your ideal vacation destination is:

A. A bustling, culturally rich city
B. A historic, grand palace tour
C. A cutting-edge, urban hotspot
D. A charming, classic countryside

Results:

Mostly A’s – Colorful: You love vibrant and diverse designs. Ginori: Famous for their playful use of color, Ginori brings a vibrant, artistic touch to any table. Their pieces are perfect for those who want to add color and sophistication to their heirloom collection. Their patterns, like Oriente Italiano, pair beautifully with more traditional china while offering a fresh take on elegance.
Mostly B’s – Fancy: You appreciate rich and opulent styles. Waterford: If you’re looking to add sparkle to your crystal collection, Waterford is the go-to brand for crystal glassware and stemware. Their contemporary designs, such as the Lismore collection, offer timeless appeal, adding luxury and refinement to any table setting.
Mostly C’s – Modern: You are drawn to sleek and bold aesthetics. William Yeoward: A brand synonymous with classic design and modern sensibilities, William Yeoward offers an exquisite range of crystal glassware and tableware. Their elegant yet innovative pieces elevate any table, creating a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern flair.
Mostly D’s – Classic: You favor soft and timeless designs. Herend:  Known for their timeless yet contemporary designs, Herend patterns are refined and elegant, allowing you to incorporate their pieces into any setting. Whether you’re looking for a classic floral print like Chinese Bouquet or something more modern like Art Deco, Herend has something for everyone.

Bering’s Experts Tip: Do not be afraid to mix a variety of modern designs with your heirlooms. Whether it is a bold Royal Crown Derby piece paired with subtle Waterford glassware or a Mottahedeh plate layered with a vintage crystal vase, blending these elements allows for a dynamic and personalized aesthetic.

Bringing It All Together

At Bering’s, our team of experts is ready to help you find the perfect balance between your heirloom treasures and modern design pieces. By following these tips you can create a beautifully blended setting that honors the past while embracing the future.

Whether you are hosting a special dinner or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, mixing old and new will add a personal, elegant touch to your table. Visit Bering’s today to explore our wide selection of heirloom-quality china, crystal, and modern designs, and let us help you find your own unique style.

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