[SWTXBelle]

Do remember that "A Southern Belle Primer" is somewhat tongue-in-cheek. But I think it fair to say that southerners do care more about somethings - like china and silver - than others. I worked as a bridal registrar, so I probably care more than most people. I can still identify crystal and china patterns at a glance!
Both of my girls have their own china patterns - my eldest has Johnson Brothers' Old Britain Castles - blue for her everyday and Wedgwood Chester (that was her grandmother's) for her formal, while the youngest has Wedgwood Medici (originally mine) for her formal. My eldest also has Grande Baroque by Wallace silver. One reason is because I wanted to give them gifts that they would own forever - not just the latest have to have it toy that will be forgotten in a year. Sure, a ten year old isn't thrilled at getting a place setting of silver, but once they get a little older they do appreciate it. (At least mine do.) Also, I don't think you should have to wait until you are married to have nice things.
I inherited my Lenox pattern and sterling from my now deceased mother in law. I now buy some Lenox Holiday every Christmas, and someday my eldest daughter will inherit it. I have Waterford crystal, but if I had to do it over again I'd get something a little less heavy.
I try to use my "good" stuff as often as I can. I don't want it to just gather dust - I want it to be a part of my children's memories of good food and good times with family. It's nice to have something tangible to pass down - and I enjoy having a table that looks nice.
Thetaprincess, the Tribeca is very nice!