Silver is meant to be seen, not herded off in a dark closet. Forget the usual excuses. I don't want to polish it. The secret is to avoid feeling as if you have to bring out every piece you own. Just as a string of pearls or a good watch dresses up a casual outfit, adding a piece of silver enhances even the most informal setting.
Silver is also a wonderful way to keep a family memory alive or to remember a special event.
John and I have a lot of silver from both of our families, our wedding, and our children's christenings, and incorporating a piece for everyday display always reminds me of the giver or a happy occasion. We have a lot of julep cups, and I like to use them as water glasses, even if the menu is casual. The prettiest silver has a patina as it's been used and used. Silver is a wonderful memory maker for Southerners. You may remember the gravy boat that is always brought out on Thanksgiving or the sip of your first mint julep in a real julep cup.