Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Paisley, I.


First things first...We are truly blessed to have the means to set a pretty table and invite our friends to join us for good food and fellowship.  As the harvest season approaches I am mindful that many are not so fortunate.  My daughter has a passion for the work of the Food Bank.  As a singer-songwriter, she has written and recorded a song that is the anthem for the world wide Crop Hunger Walk project.  Her song, "Raise Your Voice" is featured in their video.  I've included a link in the side margin of my blog.  I hope that it will encourage you to support projects in your community that contribute to the effort to overcome hunger.


I. Really. Like. Paisley.  I wanted a paisley tablecloth...and I couldn't find one that I thought would work for me.  One day, while trolling around on eBay, I happened to try a search for Russian Wool Scarves.  Bingo!  I found a wonderful, extremely large 72" x 72", paisley wool scarf that was just what I visualized.  It was located in Australia, and a few weeks later, I was ready to design my table with my new paisley cloth.  Let's hear it for thinking outside the box!

Periodically, I like to invite just a few close friends to share a meal and spend some quality fellowship time.  Today there were five of us, so the game table in the living room was a good choice for our luncheon.  Although I didn't have the extra time that I would need to create a floral centerpiece, the marvelous color palate of fresh fruits available during the fall season was perfect against the vibrant colors of the paisley wool scarf.  The black tole container, a $10.00 estate sale find, mimicked the black border and fringe on the scarf.  The antique Barley Twist candlesticks were purchased at a local antiques store, Nottinghill Antiques.  www.nottinghillokc.com.  I often place a couple of crystal decanters on my tables filled with water, wine, or tea.  My guests can refill their glasses with ease, and the reflective value of the crystal is always a desirable design element.

I've always been fond of optic crystal with its vertical lines that appear to dance when set against candlelight.  These goblets were my mother's; they are Mikasa "Stephanie Gold."  The napkins are Madeira, and they are another of the sets that belonged to our precious Nana.  For today, I used my everyday stainless flatware, Towle "Antique Bead."  Do you see the three candles on the refectory table behind the corduroy striped chairs?  They are part of a number of styles from Fringe Studio.  www.fringestudio.com.  Tip:  I usually purchase them in multiples...when I have finished burning the candles, I then have a nice group of small vases to use down the center of a table as my centerpieces.  They are so pretty!  On one occasion, I ran across the Fringe Studio candles at Tuesday Morning.

I'm a huge fan of luncheon plates!  Most English manufacturers made 9" - 9 1/2" luncheon plates.  Luncheon plates from French companies are more likely to be 8" - 8 1/2".  Tip:  When you serve on a luncheon plate, you can easily use a dinner plate as a service plate.  This increases your options exponentially.  Today I used a cranberry glass dinner plate as a service plate.  They were an estate sale find for $3.00 each.  Woohoo!  My luncheon plate is Copeland Spode "Peacock," an eBay purchase.  I love the contrast of the blue against the vibrancy of the corals and oranges in the paisley wool scarf.

Sometimes I just get lucky with my tablescape designs.  It was serendipitous good fortune that my tablescape worked well with the McGuire Regency Rattan Screen inset with coral Fortuny Silk and our black lacquer baby grand piano.  This day, I looked like a much better designer than I actually am.  I also liked the color connection between the green apples and the Wicker Works "Balustrade" green crystal lamps on the unsealed marble refectory table.

Today I'm serving a Salad Trio:  Tarragon Chicken Salad, Tuna Salad, and Fresh Fruit Salad accompanied by Croissants with Honey Butter.  For dessert I've prepared my mama's recipe for Brandy Ice.  There's the doorbell; my friends are arriving.  I hope to include you at my table some day.  Let me know if you pass my way!  There will be a chair waiting for you right next to me!



BRANDY ICE

6 oz. Brandy
1 oz. Crème d'cocoa
1 oz. Drambuie
1 oz. Triplesec
Mix combined liquors with 1/2 gallon premium ice cream, about a third at a time in a blender.  Freeze at least overnight.  If you put the half gallon of Brandy Ice back into the original plastic ice cream container, you can tie it with a bow, and it makes a great Christmas gift to exchange with friends.  This is my mama's recipe.  I now follow my mama's tradition and give a half gallon container of Brandy Ice to my friends for their Christmas Eve dinner.  It's always a hit.

You can check out KC's music at www.kcclifford.com, on iTunes, and on YouTube.  I hope that you'll take a few minutes and give her a listen.  You'll also enjoy reading back through her blog on this site.  The girl can really write!  Her latest CD is called "Orchid."

    

Thank you, yet again, to Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for hosting her magical meme, "Tablescape Thursday.  I'll be linking my post to "Tablescape Thursday.  Click on the button below to hop on over and check out the myriad of marvelous tablescape designs, after 9:00 pm on Wednesdays.  You'll be glad that you made the trip...it's a wonderful adventure.     


Entertaining Women
Entertaining Women

Hello, I'm Cherry Kay I was 40 before I realized that I am an artist. I love to paint, work in clay, rubber stamping, design tablescapes, entertain, and share ideas. I'm an interior designer wanna-be...no credentials, but lots of experience.

53 comments:

  1. Good morning J...

    You wake me up in your setting today. I adore crystals too. I can't keep buying old or new. They really make feel pretty sometimes.

    Hope your in the best of everything this sunny week.

    Happy TS Day,
    /chie

    ReplyDelete
  2. My word, how lucky am I to be the first to comment! I just love the paisley tablecloth and those exquisite plates. I am so happy to see that you were the winner on BTNP.
    It is indeed sad there are so many less fortunate people in the world and right on my doorstep too..
    Warm SA greetings
    Shel x

    ReplyDelete
  3. Love your paisley scarf on your table~ the colors are so rich & vibrant. I'm admiring your Barley Twist candlesticks too, I have a set of old chairs that I love with BT legs~ Your Brandy Ice sounds very tempting :-)

    ReplyDelete
  4. First, congratulations on winning Susan's giveaway! I can only imagine what you will do with that set of dishes.

    This week's table is one of my favorites of yours. I love paisley too! It's one of my favorite pattern designs so right off the bat I was drawn to the table. It all works together beautifully, and that the setting with that awesome screen in the background is picture perfect.

    And I like the idea of using the decanter on the table. I have a box of them that I got at an estate sale and never even set out.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Great idea to use a paisley scarf as A tablecloth. Your luncheon plates are so pretty too.
    I love the the side table you have- I have been looking for something like that!

    Carolyn

    ReplyDelete
  6. What a stunning table! Your shawl you used as a tablecloth is absolutely amazing. I love it when people think outside the box. Also, your tip about using decanters for drinks is so nice. It's different than a pitcher and what a nice glimmer the cut crystal adds. Just a marvelous table all the way around.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Good Day Cherry Kay,
    Geez I guess I am in rhyming mood this morning :)
    Love the vibrant jewel tones in the paisley table cover and the dishes play off it so beautifully.
    The Brandy Ice sounds divine!! I really should give it a try. I am loving the table in the background, it looks like rustic wood. I am trying to find a reclaimed piece for our SpringHouse out back to serve from. I want to rescue and old piece.
    Have a wonderful day.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Cherry Kay, this is such a lovely table. The colors in your shawl are fantastic and do go with the screen so well. I love your refectory table too, it just enhances the table. Those luncheon plates have such fabulous colors. They are beauties. The menu sounds fun too. I love salads and what a great idea to serve several. Hope you had a wonderful time.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Beautiful tablescape! I love Copeland china and I love this pattern with the Peacocks! I have a Jay Strongwater Peacock that would look fabulous with your plates. You have a beautiful home and thank you for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Hi,
    I really adore every paisley pattern. This scarf is so extraordinary. I love the colors and the go so well with the plates on your sideboard. You are rigth, thoughts about decoration on a table are real luxury because so many people have to make thougths how to get something to eat. But I think, a nice table is somehow a hommage to the food we have. You did a great job.
    Congratulations that your daughter made a song. Alas I cant hear it because I don't have the tecnical equipment for it. But she looks nice and I am sure the song is nice, too.
    Greetings, Johanna

    ReplyDelete
  11. The Russian scarf is gorgeous, the colors are so vibrant. The Spode plates look wonderful against the paisley. A very beautiful table. Thank you for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  12. first off congratulations on winning!!! When I saw it was you, my heart sang with happiness. I can't wait to see what you do with the dishes.

    Your scarf is beautiful. And the table setting is divine. I love how it all seemed to flawlessly go with everything you have. We do tend to stay in our comfort zones.. Once again a gorgeous table. great idea using the crystal decanters for water. I'll have to invest in some!

    ReplyDelete
  13. Cherry Kay:

    First of all I LOVE your table. It's vibrant and yet so autumnal all at once. The Spode plates are outstanding.

    Second, we really think alike. Last year I was in Marshalls or TJs with my daughter and I came across this beautiful paisley burgundy shawl. My daughter asked me what I was going to wear it with. I said my table! LOL! Which reminds me, I haven't pulled it out for this year.

    Thanks for your visit and all of your kind comments.

    PS Wish you didn't live so far away. I think we could have a good time together.

    - The Tablescaper

    ReplyDelete
  14. me again... OMG.. small world. no Paper Moon isn't in business anymore but...Jan is a friend of mine through our BSF bible study group. thanks for the update on the decanters.. She still has the hutch in her home I believe. And it's beautiful. This link truly makes my day!

    ReplyDelete
  15. Beautiful, first time to visit:)
    Blessings to you and your ministry to help others...

    Kay Ellen

    ReplyDelete
  16. Beautiful table, Cherry Kay! It is so rich in color and pattern and layers...so reflective of the fall....just lovely!
    Have a beautiful weekend!
    ;-D Kathleen

    ReplyDelete
  17. What a glorious tablecloth that lovely scarf makes! I would not have thought of using china with a blue pattern, but the contrast really brings out the blue in the paisley. Your table looks very warm and welcoming!

    ReplyDelete
  18. I do love paisley. It is such a classic pattern and can be very gender neutral.

    ReplyDelete
  19. It is all just gorgeous! Thank you for sharing it with us on this wonderful TT.

    Blessings to you and happy fall.
    ~Melissa :)

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hi Cherry Kay! The tablecloth is just gorgeous, so rare and I love your Spode plates. You know I am crazy about any peacock pattern. Beautiful table!...Christine

    ReplyDelete
  21. STUNNING!!!!! Your table is absolutely lovely. The paisley scarf was a terrific find and sets a bold and sophisticated style to your whole table. I am so glad this is a "real" table and that you have friends to enjoy it's beauty, as well as that delicious lunch. So pretty!!! And how proud you must be of that extremely talented daughter!

    ReplyDelete
  22. I am so slow in making the rounds. Getting ready for company and tons to do. I am so glad I didn't miss this tablescape. I love paisley also, and your scarf is stunning. What a fabulous idea. The fruit is the perfect centerpiece. I really like the idea of the decanters also, that is great. Your room is just stunning, and your table is fabulous. Hugs, Marty

    ReplyDelete
  23. I forgot to tell you that your daughters song is wonderful. Such a lovely and talented young lady. Hugs, Marty

    ReplyDelete
  24. Love your paisley! I have found some nice paisley cloths at the WSonoma outlet.
    Last St Patrick's Day I couldn't find just the right cloth. Then I spied the cotton knit throw I had on the sofa. Washed it and my table looked like it was wearing an Irish sweater! Perfect!

    Your table is very warm and inviting!

    ReplyDelete
  25. As usual, you have outdone yourself! How your tables just get better, and better. I love this scarf! What inspiration for color. I also just love luncheon plates. They are so versatile, plus I always hope I will eat less! Love the crystal decanters, and your living room!! Oh my goodness! Beautiful!!

    ReplyDelete
  26. What a gorgeous table! I love your "tablecloth". I've never thought of using a scarf before, but now I'll be on the lookout for fabulous fabric too. Your home is just lovely and your glassware is so striking! Thanks so much for sharing and dropping by to visit!
    Sharlotte
    Ms. Sharlotte's...Southern Reflections

    ReplyDelete
  27. Oh Cherry Kay, how smart you were to buy that scarf! It is gorgeous and makes such a wonderful table covering. This whole scene of your beautiful table in this beautiful room is just breath taking. Thanks for the recipe. laurie

    ReplyDelete
  28. I have several scarves that I bought in Russia - they are about to have new life!
    Your table is beautiful. I love that you take the time to set a perfect table for close friends. So often the ones we love the most get short shrift - kitchen lunches - when they are the ones who really deserve, and appreciate the special treatment!
    If I ever pass through OKC again, I'll let you know!

    ReplyDelete
  29. So many colors make you happy! MB

    ReplyDelete
  30. Love the rich colors of the paisley scarf. What a great find and creative way to find what you were looking for! I've enjoyed reading about the bungelow!

    ReplyDelete
  31. Cherry Kay,

    What an absolutely stunning table. The scarf is scrumptious with everything on the table. Your home is beautiful.

    Carol

    ReplyDelete
  32. LOVE the scarf,perfect tablecloth...Thanks for invite,maybe some day,huh?...But at least we do get to come into your beautiful home at least once a week, and I do enjoy the opportunity.
    Thanks for visiting LazyonLoblolly and the sweet comments,I know I don't have "fancy" wares,but I get inspiration from you all,and maybe one day!
    -Jo
    -LazyonLoblolly

    ReplyDelete
  33. Just spoke with Jan Broome, the armoire is in her home as I thought it was. She asked me to tell you hello and then told me all the beautiful things you did for her shop. WE both agreed to your wonderfulness!!

    ReplyDelete
  34. Hi again, Cherry Kay! Wow! Your daughter has a lovely voice., what talent! I like the songs very much esp. Songbird and Voice of an Angel....Christine

    ReplyDelete
  35. Beautiful table. Your scarf idea was so effective and the fruit was perfect as your centerpiece. Gorgeous colors in your paisley print. I know it was an enjoyable evening for your friends. I see so many pretty things. I recognize your imari pieces on your refectory table( this is a new term for me- thanks). Like your barley twist candlesticks too. They look like fall to me.
    I think you could easily win an award for this tablescape.

    Thanks for visiting me. I am thankful for Susan's TT party because you meet so many talented and fun people.

    Yes, our anniversary trip was extraordinary. There is much more to come. Just taking it slowly. Please visit again.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Hi Cherry Kay - You are absolutely right - great minds do think alike. I love your setting - so different from mine, even with the similar shawls, etc! And your plates are really gorgeous, too! I just love it all. Also, I am definitely going to try your mother's brandy ice!! Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Your buffet table is stunning. Love the Spode plates.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Cherry, I totally agree with the very first sentence of your blog! We are all incredibly fortunate to be able to enjoy the gifts of choice and opportunity to set pretty tables for others to enjoy. Although we should give year-round, this time of year somehow always reminds us of just how pervasive the problem of hunger - even right here in our own country - affects so many good people who don't deserve that. I am eternally grateful to be able to play Barbie doll house with my tables, and I thank God AND my very generous husband daily. Seriously...daily!!! Hubby always says, "You don't have to thank me," but I know in my heart I must. Now....THIS IS A GORGEOUS TABLESCAPE!!! Everything about it is magnificent and fits right into the backdrop of your lovely home. You obviously have very good taste, and it is sweet of you to share your talents with your friends & family....and with us in Blog Land! I'm going to peep through other posts of yours while I eat me lunch solo today. I hope we can continue to share. Have a wonderful, safe weekend and thank you for your very generous comments re: my blog. "See" you soon!

    ReplyDelete
  39. Your home and table are beautiful.
    I also really appreciate the meaning behind your Garden Friends group. How wonderful.
    Thank you for your kind comments!

    ReplyDelete
  40. I'm so glad that you visited my blog, you're giving me the opportunity to find your astonishingly elegant blog. I've been blogging for a year now and I see many beautiful homes. You been blessed by God with a gorgeous home!
    XOX

    ReplyDelete
  41. Oh your scarf is perfect! What a beautiful home you have. Thanks for stopping by for a visit.

    ReplyDelete
  42. OMGoodness...this is a stunning table. Everything is beautiful and just perfect.
    Your home is magnificent...would love to see more of it.
    I am becoming a follower so I can snoop around your place..:))

    ReplyDelete
  43. Beautiful!!! I love the scarf and the crystal is just gorgeous! Well done!

    ReplyDelete
  44. Hi Cherry Kay, First of all, congrats on winning Mikasa's china. I look forward to seeing a tablescape created with those dishes. Your table is so elegant. I love how you used the shawl. Very creative and striking. Your whole room is beautiful. Thank you for stopping by my blog and leaving a very kind comment. Have a great week-end! Linda

    ReplyDelete
  45. Oh my! Your home and table is beautiful!

    I love your colors!

    ReplyDelete
  46. Such wonderful ideas! Love how you decorate. Following.

    ReplyDelete
  47. AND I got to be follower #100 how fun!

    ReplyDelete
  48. Beautiful table setting but I could hardly see it for looking at the buffet behind it. Love it all! I'm following.

    ReplyDelete
  49. Absolutely brilliant, Cherry! Your use of the scarf adds such a dramatic touch & the entire scene is one of elegance & eclectic charm.

    I've just spent an hour going back to look at all you've posted while I was away, babysitting my grands. You've been busy!!! Beautiful table settings, each & every one.

    I've got your DD's song playing in the background right now. What a wonderfully thoughtful way to help those less fortunate.

    ReplyDelete
  50. What a beautiful design and gorgeous room! Such a great scarf, I never would have thought to put it together with those plates, but it works so well! Love it!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Hi Cherry Kay...

    My friend, this is one of the most beautiful tablescapes ever! Your Russian scarf done in the rich, vibrant paisley pattern is simply breathtaking! I'm just crazy about paisley! I would have never thought to look under Russian scarves for a table covering! Great idea...I will be checking that out on ebay! Hehe! Your table is exquisite! I love that you used the black tole container full of fruit for your table's centerpiece...it's perfect! Ohhh...and your place settings are gorgeous! I love this peacock pattern by Spode! I think it compliments the paisley table covering and visa-versa...perfectly! Your table just sparkles, my friend!!!

    I really enjoyed getting a peek at your beautiful home as well! You are a very talented designer/decorator, my friend!!! This has been such a treat...thank you for sharing your lovely home and that fabulous table with us!

    Warmest autumn wishes,
    Chari @Happy To Design

    ReplyDelete
  52. Cherry Kay thanks so much for stopping by and your very nice comment! :) Your table setting is stunning. What a gorgeous room to entertain in! I immediately recognized your water goblets-I have the same pattern but ours has more stem. I love them. I've never seen the ones you have- now I'm going to have to keep my eyes peeled!
    have a great day.

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for spending your time to leave a comment. I read each and every one of your generous thoughts. They encourage me in so many ways.

Follow Me on Instagram