Spring is here! The grass is turning green, buds are bursting into full blossoms and birds are singing. Bring an outdoor aesthetic to any table décor with these garden-inspired tableware items.
Who: For the bride who loves the great outdoors - - - from gardening to camping, these gifts are sure to celebrate her love for nature.
What: Butterflies have long served as popular motifs in fashion and accessories. Now, they migrate to tableware for a fresh garden look. The motif is a perfect match for interiors now that back-to-nature is in vogue and florals and prints are all the rage.
Ware: There’s something in the air! Tableware and giftware are taking an inspiration from nature this Spring - - - butterflies are fluttering onto everything from serving plates, coasters, vases, teapots and dessert plates.
(l) to (r ): Ivy Garland Dish, Anna Weatherly, Bergdorf Goodman; Butterfly round box, Tiffany & Co.
Garden Party bowl, Anna Weatherly, Devine Corporation.
Blue Butterfly mini try, John Derian, Viga Massi.
(clockwise): Grecian garden dessert plates, Anthropologie.com; Butterfly black and orange coaster, John Derian, Tabula Tua.
(l) to (r ): Lenox Butterfly Meadow Blue Butterfly dinner plate, Lenox Butterfly Meadow Blue Butterfly stackable tea cut, Lenox.
(l) to (r ): Lucky Butterfly, Topaz, Baccarat; Versace Butterfly Garden dinnerware, Rosenthal, Neiman Marcus.
(l) to (r ) Mottahedeh sacred birds and butterfly placesetting, Mottahedeh; Harlequin butterfly teacup and saucer set, Wedgwood.
(l) to (r ): Teapot with butterfly, Herend; Zandra Rhodes tableware, Royal Doulton, Small Island Trader.
Butterfly and bird salt and pepper shaker, Vivre.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Who, What, Ware: Tableware registry ideas for nature lovers
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Point of Passion: Breathtaking table settings
Earlier this month Conde Nast Publications unveiled the second phase of its “Point of Passion” ad campaign. A portfolio of 35 spreads representing all of Conde Nast magazines featuring influential individuals, chosen because they personify the various titles. So far we’ve seen Fashion Designer Diane von Furstenberg paired with Vanity Fair; Supermodel Natalia Vodianova matched with Vogue and Interior designer Albert Hadley aligned with Domino. This week three new spreads were rolled out, revealing three new magazines and featuring well-know personalities. I love the creations of Preston Bailey and was happy to see that the Floral and Event designer extraordinaire was coupled with Brides.
Brides who dream of fantastic flower displays spilling over their engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies and receptions turn to Preston Bailey to make their dreams come true. Preston Bailey has made a name for himself creating opulent events and floral fantasies for celebrities such as Donald Trump, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Oprah. His flair for the dramatic has made him one of the most sought after event designers in the world. Get ready to fall in love with the luxury and beauty that Preston Bailey creates.
A reception table is nothing without its centerpiece! When it comes to reception style, your tables are going to be the center of attention, so make sure they’re gorgeous! Top them with fabulous fabrics, interesting flatware, and cascading flowers.
Even if you’re not planning a elaborate extravaganza you can still enjoy the floral designs of Preston Bailey. Via his 2006 partnership with 1-800-FLOWERS.com, a leading multi-channel retailer, Preston's exquisite, floral creations are now easily accessible to customers everywhere.
The Well-Dressed Picnic Table
One of the joys of summer is to pack a picnic lunch and head for the beach, mountains or even a nearby park to savor delicious food in the open air. Spotted in June’s edition of Elle Décor, this Goyard picnic trunk comes equipped with everything you’d need for a well-dressed picnic table at the beach – preferably on the French Riviera! Silver cutlery, porcelain plates, crystal tumblers and more are tucked into a leather case in the brand’s signature print. A girl can dream right!?!?
The longstanding European tradition of dining al fresco is a relaxing way to enjoy light, satisfying food and refreshing, chilled drinks. Can you image a better way to create the ultimate champagne experience than with this trunk created by Pinel & Pinel for the House of Krug. Someone wake me up!??!
Goyard and Pinel & Pinel represent the epitome of luxurious picnic dining but not all table creations fetch a king's ransom. When dining at a picnic table, add small touches of unexpected luxury by using a tablecloth, real china and silver. Here are a few of my favorites:
"Cornish Blue" picnic basket: A unique specimen from Great Britain: this willow picnic basket contains the famous blue-and-white-striped ceramic crockery "Cornish Blue", which the Derbyshire potters in England have been producing by hand for over a hundred years.
Picnic trunk at Neiman Marcus.
With Wedgwood fine bone china and crisp white linen this really is the elite in picnic baskets and is presented in a trunk style basket. Each basket. Contains: 4 china plates. 4 wine glasses. 4 cups and saucers. 1 food cooler. 1 wine cooler. 1 tablecloth and napkins. 1 cruet. 1 corkscrew. 1 liter stainless steel flask. 4 stainless steel forks. 4 stainless steel spoons. 4 stainless steel knives.
Wine Lover's Picnic Basket @ William-Sonoma. Al fresco dining is one of the many pleasures that summertime offers, and one that can be adapted to accommodate a variety of budgets, locations and guest lists. Get creative with your cuisine and accessories and take the party outside...la bella vita awaits!
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Friendship Toast: Happy Memorial Day
"It is around the table that friends understand best,the warmth of being together”.
It's a 4 day weekend and I couldn't be more ready! I'm ready to take in some sun, kick-up my feet and relax this holiday weekend. Twist it up this Memorial Day weekend! At your picnic, pool party or backyard barbecue, pour some fresh lime Caipirinhas, a potent mixture of cachaca (sugarcane liquor), limes, and sugar. Brazil’s national drink and now the cocktail of choice in New York and Miami, a caipirinha provides ultimate satisfaction on a hot summer’s day!
Since Caipirinhas are mostly colorless, it’s the perfect drink to serve in colorful glasses. These Pottery Barn glasses are the perfect barware choice. They are inspired by hand-blown glass, come in a variety of color and they’re on sale!
Serve your Caipirinhas with grilled meats and vegetables, plus plenty of fruit and cheese. I can smell the 'que now. I'm outta here! Have a great Memorial Day weekend. Cheers!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Paper Plates
In a time when so many people are emailing, tapping into their Blackberries and sending text messages, it’s refreshing to receive a handwritten note, card or invitation on some fabulous paper.
At the National Stationary show I had the opportunity to see the new desk top collection of stationery and accessories all based on the stylish design of one of America’s leading home accessories designers. Starting with just a line of pillows, Thomas Paul has blossomed into a style icon when it comes to home accessories. First it was the Thomas Paul pattern on silk pillows, then it was tapletop and lamp shades, now it’s paper.
Three collections are in the initial release, named Aqua Peacock Leaf, Chocolate Orange Marigold and Persimmon Pink. The collections include a pencil cup, divided desk tray, laser sheet kit, mouse pad, note cards and thank you notes in attractive patterns.
Don't you just love it when Paper + Plates come together!
Honorable mentions of paper plate combinations that I think are great:
Kate Spade - (Top) Rutherford Circle Floral Coupe Accent Plate & Mug feature a combination of bold color and a whimsical pattern that blooms with easy elegance. (Below) Peppermint Twist, Add these bright candy striped swirls to your next holiday get together!
Superdelxue - (Above) Signauture monogram collection. Pair with a glass plate, pen cup, monogram paperweight and notecards, you have instant style on your desk.
Crane - (Above) One of the striking new collections introduced by Crane is China Blue. This is a complete lifestyle collection that includes invitations and papers, gift sets, coasters and entertaining accessories. With a nod to the classic blue and white china patterns of the 18th and 19th centuries, the blue and white designs are clean, updated classics with a contemporary feel.
The art of arranging with plates
( l): Domino magazine: Two-dimensional art isn't the only way to decorate a wall. A group of quirky objects picked up at a flea market, estate sale, or online auction make a bold statement. ( R): Kelly Wearstler: She surely made a bold statement with the arrangements of these plates. This is my favorite!
I love tableware and there’s nothing I enjoy more than spending time scouring flee markets, antique shops, discount stores, specialty boutiques, even Ebay looking for great tabletop items. When I’m not out looking, my friends are looking for me and when they spot a great deal, they make sure to let me know! "Thanks David for the RL basket weave cup and saucer, they look great on the shelf with the rest of my collection"!
I’m always looking for new and creative ways to display my china collection. The April issue of Domino magazine ran a great story about hanging art and I thought, “I could totally curate a gallery-worthy china arrangement using these ideas for hanging art”.
Get the look
(l): LivingEtc. magazine: great use of vertical symmetry using the Fornasetti theme and varation plates. (R ): Domino magazine: Let the lines of the artwork dictate how the frames are arranged on the wall. A simple, symmetrical layout allows the prints to be read as one piece. 
(l): Domino magazine: Combine pieces with strong—but very different—elements. (R ): Country Living, Collection Style book: When decorating your wall with plates, incorporate diverse objects into the setting. The placement can do more than merely bring visual interest to an interior; it also personalizes your home. Notice the O’s on the wall? This wall is decorated with the actual letter and transferware plates with a similar shape. 
(l): Domino magazine: Don't overlook the graphic power of white. Crisp white mattes and frames allow artwork to really pop against a dark wall. (R ): Southern Accents magazine – Love the white platters against the brown wall.
(l): Thomas Paul plates and coordinating pillows. (R ): Domino magazine: Look for art that picks up on the main colors of the furniture but with a slightly different palette, for a look that is complementary without being too matchy. (Above): Country Living, Collection Style book: Arranged along a wall of shelves, collections become a decorative element, and set the tone of an entire room.
(l): LivingEtc. magazine: Positioning plates on the wall adds a interesting touch to a neutral space; the more saturated shades of blue are broken up with white plates with flower pattern designs. (R ): Domino magazine: Treat a wall like a work of art. For an instant grouping of themed imagery. 
(l): Domino magazine: Hang a related group of art low over a sofa or table to disrupt your visitors' expectations, and to entice them to really look at the work (R ): Country Living, Collection Style book: Notice the collection of white iron platters. The black interiors emphasize the graceful lines of the platters and harmonize with the entryway’s accent color found in the armchair.
(l): Same wall color! These Thomas Paul plates look equally stunning. (R ): Domino magazine: Pick a genre and then vary shapes and colors within it. Take out those beautiful plates that you have stored in your cupboard, curio or china cabinet and hang them on the wall or parade them along a mantel. China doesn’t have to been reserved for the dining room table; use them in your bedroom, living room and any other unexpected place. I hope this post inspires you to bring your beloved tableware to the forefront in your home, where they can evoke in you the same joyous feeling my collections evoke in me.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
The Cape Cod inspired table setting
If tulips mark the beginning of spring and a pumpkin hails autumn then the lobster motif must signal the height of summer.
The sultry days of summer are nearing and I’m noticing the lobster motif creeping up in a variety of ways.
The bed featured in Southern Accents uses a whimsical fabric with a blue lobster to cover the headboard.
Elle Décor, features these fabulous linen pillows by Ankasa with an embroidered lobster on one of them. Don't you just love these pillows? The idea of fusing fashion and home has been the vision for Ankasa for years and I can't wait to see the new Flagship store which is opening in New York June 2007. I'm hoping that tabletop is in Ankasa's future plans!
0ver at Kate Spade she’s created a bold, playful cape cod collection using lobsters.
So this summer take your mind off the heat and set a table that is inspired by the cool New England shorelines and conjures up thoughts of salty sea captains, lobsters, seashells and schooners gliding into harbor.
Get the look
Set your tables with simple red and white-checkered tablecloths and napkins. Add some hurricane lamps to your table setting, you can fill them with sea shells, white daisies, tall ornamental grasses or put a candle inside.
clockwise: Red White Checker table cloth. Bib, lobster cracker and hurricane lights; Stonewall Kitchen.
Bring a little bit of the shore to your table by decorating with seashells, lobster name plates, butter knives and large lobster centerpieces. The Golden Rabbit enamelware would look great atop a clambake inspired table. Be sure that every guest has a lobster cracker set and bib. Remember to bring coolers full of cold beverages to the beach. Great beverages for this party are lemonade, iced tea and, of course, plenty of water.
clockwise: Silver lobster, Simply Home. Silver place card holder, Pottery Barn. Lobster Spread, Stonewall Kitchen, carved crayfish figurine, Roost, Vivre.
Where ever you are in the country - - - In Georgia and the Carolinas you call it a country boil; in Louisiana, it’s called a crawfish boil. In New England it’s a clambake. Whatever you call it, all I know is a hearty combo of shellfish, corn and potatoes is a great way to celebrate a carefree summer day or evening.
Dress your table in style this season. Happy Summer!
Monday, May 21, 2007
Black and White: Dining by Design
The palette for Spring/Summer 2007 is black and white, or, more important, black-and-white prints. (L): British designer Luella Bartley showed an entire collection of black-and-white print miniskirts, dresses, and tight suits.
Most people think that runway fashion is generally associated with apparel but true fashionistas and entertaining gurus know that the latest style trends and colors from the fashion runway always influences home décor and tableware. As with the tabletop creation shown above, (R): David Stark used film and theater scripts and musical scores as décor. Words appeared on everything, from silk-screened tablecloths, votives, and napkin rings. Rather than centerpieces of live flowers, Stark crafted intricate paper flowers from pages of scripts.
Welcome Décor 8 readers! The lovely Holly Becker from Décor 8, was wonderful enough to spotlight “Toast and Tables” as her blog of the week and I’m very excited about that!
Thank you Holly and welcome to everyone who found their way to my table via Décor 8. If you are familiar with Décor 8 you know that Holly does the most amazing color stories, currently she’s passionate about purple. Inspired by Holly’s color stories, I decided to introduce myself to her legion of fans by sharing with all of you what I consider to be MY signature color. Yes! Black and White, it’s classy, sophisticated and smart. Crisp, clean and makes a statement about the wearer’s discerning taste.
Black and white is timeless and this Spring/Summer the look is everywhere!! Ralph Lauren’s spring collection is exclusively black and white — aside from shimmering metallic silver for evening.
This season, to add a fashionable flare to your next dinner party or get together, take some inspiration from the Spring/Summer 2007 runway!
Black and White invokes a feeling of retro classic, mod and ultra feminine. (L): Chanel Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Rosanna, Black dots. This trendy collection from Rosanna is classy, yet modern in their vibrant design. These pokka dots look great on the runway and on the table.
(L): Alessandro Dell Acqua Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Zebra dinnerware by Arcadia, Vivre.com. Be inspired by the animal prints shown on the runway this spring/summer. These gold and black plate zebra plates are a playful take on white dinnerware and will add flair to your table setting.
The classic pairing of black and white forms sleek lines and striking schemes. Flatware decorated with these colors is completely stunning and the chevron pattern adds the perfect amount of geometrics. (L): Esteban Cortazar Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Oscar de la Renta, Chevron Stainless pattern, City Collection, Lunt Silver. My friend Brooke spotted this flatware weeks ago and we both fell in love with this collection immediately!
The color palette for spring boasts a base of a mixture of metallic’s and soft earthy hues alongside black and white. Notice the touch of shimmering silver in both the halter and the placemat. (L): Chaiken Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Kim Seybert Handmade capiz shell place mats, Horchow.
White is paired with black for the ultimate cool, crisp combo, as with this Ralph Lauren halter dress and the Barbara Barry dinnerware. (L): Ralph Lauren Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Barbara Barry, Curtain Call, Michael C. Fina.
The season’s color scheme is given a little levity by patterns, including polka-dots, animal prints and checks. But it’s florals that steal the show.
(L): Cynthia Steffe Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Rosanna, Rosette, Rosanna. Can you believe these gorgeous plates are Melamine. You can add a graphic touch to an elegant outdoor table with no worry of breakage!
(L): Abaete Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Damask 16-pc. Dinnerware Set - Black/ White, Target. 
(L): Etro Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Gien, Tulipes Noires, Michael C. Fina.
(L): Monique Lhuiller Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Raynaud, Ombrages, American Dinner plate, Michael C. Fina. New for 2007 from Raynaud, the Ombrages pattern plays on the meaning of shadow, "ombrages," in French, and light. Different designs options on the buffet and dessert plates allow you change the look of your table like the changing patterns of leaves in a forest.
Black and white is a design staple, both in fashion and as you see also in tableware. It's also one of the most popular trends in interior design as it's dramatic and effortless in its minimal approach. Splashes of brightly colored prints and patterns add to the variations of black and white, which creates a new spin on decorating with black and white. Colors set against black and white make them pop, the colors in this Tiffany plate look amazing and vibrant against the black background.
(L): DKNY Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): BLACK SHOULDER dinner plate. Tiffany Private Stock™ hand-painted Limoges porcelain, Tiffany & Co.
In addition, bringing color in a black and white scheme gives a great deal of flexibility to introduce accessories and centerpieces; like the yellow charger, the lemons in the silver bowl and the red roses.
(Clockwise): Nanette Lepore Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show; Grant Spectator, Ralph Lauren, 888-475-7674; Barocco Dinner Plate, Versace, Michael C. Fina.
(L): Emporio Armani Spring 2007 Ready to Wear Runway show, (R ): Madison dinnerware, horchow.com
Season after season we look to New York, Milan and Paris and fashionista locales in between to help dictate the trends and styles we’ll see in local boutiques and department stores. Trends range from glamorous to grungy from feminine to masculine. What is certain, no matter the season or trend du jour, dressing your table is always you in style. I would love to see how you put style on your table.
(L): Black Cut-Crystal Glassware, Williams Sonoma Home (R ): Bacchus Bottle Stoppers by Lladro, vivre.com
Monochrome is more than just fashion, it's pure style. Do you put style on your table? I would love to see how. Send me pics of your wares and together we can inspire each other to always present a well-dressed table. Cheers!
(All images from the Spring/Summer 2007 ready to wear runway shows are from New York magazine).
