We do get asked from time to time for Denby Dinner services. I am always surprised that many people, when enquiring, do not have a clear idea of what pieces they expect to see in a Denby Diner service. I think there are two explanation for this. Firstly, the definition of dinner service is unspecific so there is a great deal of individual belief as to exactly what it means. Secondly when faced with an array of choice such as Denby plates which do you chose? and is there some kind of etiquette which we are going to fall foul of. In which case the vague request
"I would like a Denby Dinner Service" avoids any potentially embarrassing pitfalls. I have always disliked the idea that there is the "Right" number and type of pieces to buy I much prefer that there is the "Right" selection for you. So how do you choose?

Denby Plates

All Denby collections have at least 3 sizes of Plates. Denby plates are designed to cover the 3 main meals of the day. The dinner plate is self explanatory and essential to any collection but the Dessert / Salad plate and Tea Plate is more a matter of preference. If you use a plate at breakfast and supper but don't want anything as large as dinner plate then the medium dessert / salad plate would probably be a useful inclusion in you dinner service it can also double as a tea plate if necessary although bigger than the tea plate by about 2". Alternatively if the medium plate is unlikely to get much use the tea plate would be more appropriate. Denby plates also include larger serving plates which added to your collection singularly, as centre serving plates, can really add style to the table. The important thing to remember is that this dinner service is for you and need only include those things you would use. This is definitely a good starting attitude as an investment in a Denby dinner service is to be enjoyed so starting with the things that you can use everyday is a good idea and extra pieces can be added to your collection at any time.

Denby Dishes

All Denby Patterns also include a wide selection of dishes and bowls sometimes refereed to as Denby Dishware. Again the principle is the same as Denby plates, Which bowls and dishes are you likely to use? Do you eat cereals, pasta, soups or is it only for desserts? Once you have decided what you would use Denby dishware for select the bowl which covers the most uses in your list. Remember all Denby dishes have names "Rice Bowl", "Pasta Bowl" etc. but they could equally be called "Sponge and Custard Bowl" so names don't matter!

Denby Teapot

Denby teapots can also be used for coffee and although most of us will admit that making tea these days involves a tea bag and a Denby mug, a pot for tea or coffee at the end of a dinner party is probably a little more acceptable.

Denby Mugs v Denby Teacups and Saucers

Denby patterns offer a range of Denby mugs and teacups and saucers and even mugs that can transform into teacups with the addition of saucers specifically designed to give you maximum flexibility. The curve mug is a perfect example. Like any Denby Mug it is well designed to feel comfortable to hold with good size handles. It's rounded shape makes it a stylish mug but when combined with a coordinated saucer becomes a more formal piece. If you prefer a more traditional look to your Denby dinner service then each pattern also includes a traditional Teacup and Saucer along with Coffee cups and saucers in some Denby patterns.

Denby Dinnerware

Plates, bowls, mugs or teacups and saucers nearly completes the dinnerware or tableware section of a dinner service. The only items needed to finish off are possibly a jug, especially if it is not only suitable for milk but also sauces. A sugar basin and perhaps salt and pepper.

If I want a dinner service, why should I buy Denby?

Denby pattern ranges are designed to give you flexibility on well made, well designed pottery and china. Although comprehensive the ranges are not so extensive and confusing as some manufacturers. All Denby pottery is built to last and will give decades of service if looked after. (Please visit either our Care of Denby Pottery or Care of Denby China pages for more information on the care of Denby products) Denby can also be added to piece by piece through our web site at www.KingsandQueenswales.co.uk, we offer discount Denby pottery worldwide or through high street Denby outlets such as
Kings and Queens
1, Guildhall Square
Carmarthen
Wales
SA31 1PN
Tel 01267 231678

To buy Denby at this web site please select a pattern from our Denby patters page
Denby Patterns

To learn a little about extensions to your Denby Collection and the coordinated accessories available please visit our Denby Cookware and More page.