I first received 8 place settings of "Manoir" as a wedding gift as an every day alternative to my fine china. 23 years later, my family still eats off these dishes every single day. They have withstood the daily dishwasher, two half-grown children, 5 in-state moves, and countless parties. This pattern goes with everything from Christmas dinner to backyard barbecues in both strength and versatility. My only complaint (if you can call it that) is the fact that as my family grows, so does the necessity to add to my collection. Invest in this dinnerware, and you won't be sorry!