A Berry Nice Setting

"Where have all the flowers gone?"  I have been singing this song to myself now for awhile, waiting for Spring.  I see signs, and I have to tell you, I cannot wait.  Today's high will be 74--we're getting there!!  Snow and 74 all in the same week, quite the weather we're having in good ole Virginia.  So what to do for tablescaping, spend money on store flowers?  An option, but not one I have wanted to do lately.  Option 2--use what you have and what you see.  So outside I went, and one thing I noticed right away--the nandina berries.  The red color is so vibrant, maybe due to the mild winter we've had?  Not sure, but I knew I had to use them.  Not wanting to look like a Christmas arrangement, I added nandina (I actually had to wash every leaf with a paper towel) and stems from an oak leaf hydrangea bush.  I think it turned out quite well. 

I have to say I've been a bit down lately--where have all my friends gone?  And underappreciated, until I read a moving post from Debbie at debbie-dabble.  Her post motivated me, and I'm back today, and I can't wait to see what you've done.  I am excited to join Susan and all the wonderful tablescaping blogs!!

It's a red, white, black and gold theme, well not really a theme.  This china is one of my favorites, because I love the lines and it's classic look.  I hope you enjoy.

We are gathering in the dining room today.

By using a black tablecloth as a base, the red berries just popped.

The red bowls were my mother's.  I will break down the place setting shortly.

Guess it could be used for Christmas--or not...

I did use red napkins and the leaf napkin rings that I used here for New Year's Eve, just to add a bit of bling.  They were a gift from a friend.

For the place setting, I started with a gold baroque charger.

The next layer, the dinner plate, is Richelieu, by Royal Doulton.

The next layer is a Limoge, by C Ahrenfeld (France).

All together now.

Red candles were used in crystal candleholders.

I'm really not sure of the manufacturers of these stems.  The gold stems were won at an auction and the iced beverages, I was told, were Lenox.

Thanks for stopping by!  And thanks so much for your kind comments! 

A Pink Valentine's Day Setting

From the very beginning, I always said if this became more of a chore than a joy, I would stop.  I am still having fun, designing tablescapes, looking at everyone's gorgeous blogs and chatting with newfound blog friends.  But sometimes I feel that I am missing out on life, while sitting in front of this computer.  I will continue to post when I have time, and I will definitely continue to view all of your amazing, creative posts.  If I am slow to respond, or I neglect to make a comment, please forgive me.  I am limiting the amount of time I spend at this desk.  I did set a table this week in the Valentine mode, a bit vintage and nostalgic.

Valentine's Day is all about love, and this tablecloth was made by my first love, my mother.  It is very special to me.

Pink roses and baby's breath add a romantic touch.

Place setting consists of chargers from Tuesday Morning, white scroll plates (B on back?) from TJ Maxx, pink Bordello Pinheira cabbage plates, and Limoge bread and butter plate.

Stems were won at an auction, and I have no idea as to the manufacturer or pattern.  Do you know?  White vase is vintage, from an estate sale.

Another view of the stemware...

Cupid candlelabras were purchased at the local antique mall.

I'm not a real crafty-type person, but I did put these lacy luminaries together thanks to a tutorial from the wedding bistro at Bellenza.  So easy even I could do it!!  I added water and a floating candle.  Click here for the tutorial.

I also found these lovely pink napkins and napkin rings at an estate sale.  I loved the size and quality of the fabric.

You've seen this little guy before!

Thanks for stopping by!  I appreciate your kind comments.

 Happy Valentine's Day!

Tables for Valentine's Day

Thought I'd re-post a few tables from the past that would be appropriate for Valentine's Day.  I'm working on something, but I just haven't had the time to finish it like I want.  So, in case you missed these, here goes!!

A red and white table with lots of Cupids!!

A vintage Valentine for each guest!

More cupids, with red and gold.

Gold cupid plates . . .

Centerpiece was made with red roses and hydrangas sprayed gold

Pink heart plates adorned with roses are romantic.

Lots of rose petals!

Place setting~

That's it for now, thanks for stopping by!



A Shabby Chic Setting

Things are still in transition at my house from Christmas.  I've been trying to change a few things, and in the process, I am at a standstill, not really sure what I want to do.  So I thought today I would show you a fabulous shabby-chic table from my friends at Bellenza.  Bellenza is an exciting site--chocked full of unique and fabulous wedding and bridal shower ideas.  If you are planning a wedding or a shower, you must visit, although their beautiful tables could be used for any occasion.  For example, the table you will see below would be perfect for a romantic dinner or even a special birthday celebration!

The designers at Bellenza recommend a soft color palette when going for the shabby chic look with pastel-painted wooden "distressed" furnishings, and feminine, frilly accents, such as these fringed napkins.

The soft colors of ivory, white and pink are accented with ruffled ribbon and flower petals.

Clear glass plates set atop pink organza circles add a very vintage touch.  Add in elegant silver cutlery, jewel-trimmed favors, and pearl-ringed candle trays for added accents.

Lace-trimmed luminaries set on mirrored candle rings really give this table a romantic glow!  For directions on how to make these beautiful luminaries, click here.  So easy I think I might just give it a try!

Bellenza has great ideas for party favors, such as the mini purses above, which could be filled with potpourri, Jordan almonds, or hand soap.

For more great tips on setting a shabby chic table and to see more of this beautiful tablescape, visit Bellenza!  You'll be glad you did!!