In June I began a series entitled Top Ten Registry Shops, which focuses on Connecticut based stores that are perfect picks for your registry. Last time we looked at Macys and all the benefits of registering there. Today I want to talk about Pottery Barn.

I’ll admit, choosing to register at Pottery Barn is a matter of taste. If you don’t like Pottery Barn’s style, well, there are nine other Top Picks for you to choose from! For those of you who like the style of Pottery Barn, you can find almost all of your registry items in one store. You can register for a pillow sham and a day bed – the options are endless. Here are some of my favorite items that appeal to a wide variety of tastes:

Great White Dinnerware

In my eyes, Pottery Barn’s great white dinnerware collection is the end all, be all, of casual dinnerware. As a matter of fact, if you are not going to register for your bridal china, this set easily translates into a more formal setting. I love the clean, smooth shape of the set and the polished finish. I recommend to my brides that they register for white dinnerware. Why? Think about the investment you are making in buying all these beautiful pieces. The quality of the product is really superb, so you should be using this dinnerware for many years to come. In 10, 15 to 20 years, this collection will still be fresh and modern unlike some of the other fad dinnerware that is appealing. That isn’t to say you shouldn’t buy what you like – but mix and match, supplementing other pieces with styles that you like. I recommend registering for at least 12 place settings, but it is wise to register for up to 16. You may never use them but at least they are available should Christmas be at your house soon!

Various Glass Service Pieces

It is so important that you don’t forget about these beautiful and functional pieces! Register for a wine decanter, glass iced tea pitcher, or margarita pitcher! You will use them, especially if you love to entertain. And while you’re not using them? Double them up as vases!

Entertaining & Serving Pieces

Don’t forget about the platters and large pieces that come with your dinnerware and china – but also find supplemental pieces that you can use for serving appetizers, drinks, and other goodies. Pieces from Pottery Barn that I love? The wine barrel lazy susan, the barona tray, and the barona cheese board.

Pottery Barn has also entered into the modern era when it comes to bridal registries: you can update your registry 24/7 online and receive a 10% discount on any items not received on your registry within one year. So, which Pottery Barn stores in Connecticut have the best selection? Well, almost all of them are the same, but here are my picks: Farmington in the West Farms Mall, Wethersfield at Evergreen Walk, Westport on Main Street, and Danbury in the Danbury Fair Mall. Do go to the store to register, even if they don’t carry all the items. Their staff are super friendly and will make it a fabulous experience for you, which is so important! I especially like the staff at the Westfarms Mall in Farmington. They are extra fabulous!

One last and important detail: Pottery Barn’s return policy is overly accommodating. I’ve ordered A LOT of pieces from them over the years, and if ever I was unsatisfied with something or my item was unintentionally damaged during shipping, I got a replacement immediately. I’ve always been impressed with their customer service!

I met with Rob and Kathleen of Robert & Kathleen Photography earlier this week and I have been an avid blog stalker of their work for at least a year. They are both so incredibly talented and I can’t wait for the opportunity when we can work together! On Sunday, Rob posted some breathtaking pictures of a wedding he had done the day before for a beautiful couple named Allison & Bryan. I don’t normally post weddings that are not our own, but the images are too spectacular for me not to share.

The elated couple had a gorgeous church wedding with their reception at the picturesque Candlewood Inn. On the way to the church, Rob & Kathleen drove by a local carnival and thought it would make for some interesting photographs. The bride and groom thought so too. The result? Some of the most beautiful and unexpected photographs I’ve ever seen. All brides hope that their photographer is able to capture that unforeseen moment on their wedding day and translate it onto film… Rob & Kathleen captured that special moment (and they always do) for this special couple.

I know, I know! You want to see the images.. be sure to click the thumbnails to take in the full version. Also check out more beautiful pictures from this event (and feel free to add them to your “blog stalk” list): http://www.robertandkathleen.com. Lastly, Congratulations to Allision & Bryan!