A Touch of Italy

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. 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.

Did you know that Blogger has a handy feature that I have come to call "Time Bake"?  Thanks to the kindness of "The Tablescaper", I learned that it is possible to create a post at one time for publication at another time.  Also, "The Tablescaper" was generous to link my posts to Tablescape Thursday the last two weeks while "Sweet Mister"  took me on a magical trip to ITALY...that's me shouting with joy!...which leads me to today's post.

While we were spending several days in Sorrento, Italy...Thank you, Splenderosa... I found a magnificent establishment ...

 ...filled with magnificent linens.  You would have been just as blown away as I was.  Established in 1862, the company is still operated by the same family.

Welcome to linen heaven!  Something for everyone, I'm certain!  I even included a special shot for all of you rooster addicts!  I've always wanted a beautiful cloth that spoke of the organic textures and natural colors that permeate Italy.  I found just what I desired, and it was the inspiration for today's luncheon, a birthday celebration for the Garden Friends' Girls of Summer.  After today, we'll take a break from our Bible studies until the Fall.

I'm going to have so much fun with this wonderful set of linens.  I can envision designs using both sides of the reversible pieces.  I think that it will transcend every season beautifully.

   Taupes, whites, and a soft blend of greens worked well together to create a tablescape that gave a special nod to the fleeting days of Spring.

To anchor the center of my table, I chose the Mottahedeh, "Museé des Arts Decoratif" tureen,  one of my best eBay gets.  I'm always tempted to use this beautiful Italian piece every time that I design a tablescape.   I also found the four white Italian candlesticks via eBay.  The pair of jardinieres were bought at Hobby Lobby.  I was in my neighborhood store just yesterday, and this group of pottery is still available.  The bitty birds were bought on clearance at Michael's.

The many details on this wonderful tureen make it the favorite of my tureen collection.  Tip:  Tureens make it easy to create an effective centerpiece.  They have an immediate impact, and they greatly reduce the need for a large number of flowers.  Tureens are one of my favorite centerpiece elements.

Homeland Grocery proved to be a valuable source for the white and green Hydrangeas.  I made a second stop at my boutique florist, Sam's Wholesale Club, for the white Spray Roses , Hypericum Berries, and fillers.  I always laugh when I say, " Filler, the amateur floral designer's best friend."

I have to admit...I'll create a symmetrical design almost every time.  You can also see that tendency in the way that I arranged the items in the pair of crystal cabinets.  Makes me happy.

 The antique ivory handled flatware was made in 1865, by Landers, Frary, & Clark of New Britain, Connecticut.  Today was their premier appearance; I found the set of 12 at a wonderful local antique store.  I liked the point-counterpoint effect of the Caspari rattan charger against the crisp white porcelain of the Wedgwood "Countryware" dinner plate and the Haviland "Ranson" plate.

I've really enjoy entertaining with our everyday Mikasa, "French Countryside" goblets.  They are a generous size, and they feel nicely balanced in your hand.  I like that the shape of the stemware is repeated in the decorative design in the tablecloth.  Tip:  Repetition of design, pattern, and color is always an effective strategy when creating a tablescape.

The pair of white fretwork obelisks on the buffet held candles.  They worked in lieu of additional flowers, which saved me a few dollars.  Sometimes the smallest touch is all that is needed.  The rattan encased carafes at either end of the table are from Nell Hill.  Today they were filled with ice water for my guests.

When I finished setting the table last night, I snapped a few candlelight shots to share with you.  Still experiencing a sharp learning curve, but I plan to keep trying.

I'm so grateful to "Sweet Mister" for our magical trip to Italy and for our new family treasure.  I look forward to using it often for many years.  I've missed my precious Garden Friends, and I am eager for them to walk through the door.  I'd love for you to sit at my table, too!

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."   Hop on over HERE 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.

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."  It is available on iTunes or through her website.  I hope that you'll give her music a chance.  I know that I have zero objectivity where she is concerned, but I think that you'll fall in love with her music and her!       

  

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