Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Round the Clock Shower/Luncheon

"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. As you consider your own philanthropic opportunities, I hope that it will encourage you to support projects in your community that contribute to the effort to overcome hunger.


Sweet Mister and his friend Russ have been close friends since they were little boys.  Russ and Kathy's son is engaged to be married this summer to a beautiful young woman whom he met while away at college.  I was blessed to host a "Round the Clock" luncheon/shower for the bride-to-be.  It was a wonderful opportunity for her to meet Kathy's friends and for us to meet the bride and her family, in town for the weekend. Five other friends shared the hostess responsibilities, and we prepared seating for thirty-two at four tables on the back porch.  

  
As guests entered the foyer, they were offered a Mimosa in a hand painted flute.  Over time, I've painted 6 dozen of these flutes.  They live in their original boxes on a shelf in the garage, and they are used quite often for large groups.  Today they were also put into service for the Brandy Ice dessert.  The white pitcher was bought from Ceramice Casola, Positano last summer during our magical trip to Italy.

When it was time for lunch, guests filled their Royal Doulton RD199 luncheon plates with a light summer menu featuring fresh mixed berries, chicken salad, and hot bread.

When planning my design, I wanted to repeat a variety of elements that would create continuity among the tables. You can identify some of the elements on the buffet table.  The Luneville tureen, an eBay purchase, worked well with the Hydrangeas from my garden.  The Williams-Sonoma blue and white toile tablecloth was also an eBay get.  The hot bread was served in a pair of Godinger crystal bread baskets.  As a nod to our theme, small decorative clocks were tucked in along the length of the centerpiece.

Our dear Nana's silver candelabra and Towle "Lafayette" sterling tea service graced the buffet along with a pair of tall pale blue vases holding abundant arrangements starring more Hydrangeas,  and a pair of the Lalique, "La Coq".  The vases were found on clearance at Hobby Lobby.  Come on out to the back porch.  It's almost time for everyone to be seated....



It was a glorious day here on the prairie, and we were thrilled to dine al fresco...

Although no two tablescapes are exactly the same, I was able to create design continuity by using similar elements on each table.  I've again used blue and white toile tablecloths.  I bought 11 of these through eBay for 30% less than it would have cost me to rent them for one day.  Each table held a white tureen surrounded by three small jardinieres filled with more of my garden Hydrangeas as the centerpiece.  Here the tureen is Rosenthal "Sansoucci."

 Each table showcased a different pattern of cobalt china.  The Coalport "Spearpoint"dinner plate was found on eBay.  All the plates were placed on silver chargers.  

Assorted patterns of Nana's vintage linen napkins with pale blue embroidered motifs were held by oversized 'diamond ring' napkin rings.  I bought 48 of the napkin rings with 2 other friends.  We co-op them, and they have been utilized many times.  Two of the tables offered the pink Waterford "Simply" goblets.

   Of course, I wanted the bride's table to be very special.  For her centerpiece, I placed the Mottahedeh, "Musee Decoratif" tureen and underplate in the midst of a trio of small Lenox tureens overflowing with more of my Hydrangeas...

Sweet Nana's Prussian Cobalt "Portrait" plates added the perfect grace note to the bride's table. Each plate has a different portrait in the center.  I forgot to take a picture of the center of the plate.  If you wish to see them, click HERE (they're worth the click).  Two of my tablescapes held the blue Waterford "Simply" goblets.  The Waterford "Simply" goblets were all eBay acquisitions.  I bought them several years ago, very inexpensively.  They are still available, but the cost has escalated quite a bit.

For the third table, I switched back to the Simply Pink goblet.  The tureen and under plate are Wedgwood "Patrician", and the reticulated jardinieres were bought on clearance at Hobby Lobby.

Another pattern on my "list", the Minton "Consort" was once again a great eBay buy.  All the tables were set with the Reed & Barton "Francis I" flatware, which belonged to my mother-in-love.

 Completing the quartet of tables, this one features the Copeland Spode "Gadroon" tureen and underplate.  The cobalt and gold encrusted Minton "H2954" dinner plates were made for Ovington Brothers.  

I found the 12 plates at the tail end of an estate sale; they were $16.00 per plate...an incredible deal.

A beautiful azure blue sky...sunlight gently dappled on the tabletops...

It's a perfect day for an al fresco luncheon.  Let me know if you're headed my way, and I'll set a table just for you.  Let the party begin!

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 and check out the myriad of marvelous tablescape designs, after 10:00 AM on Thursdays.  You'll be glad that you made the trip...it's a wonderful adventure.

When I think of MAY, I think of days and evenings perfect for dining al fresco.  How about you?  With thankfulness for her dedication and efforts, I'm joining the multi-talented Tablescaper for her fabulous meme SEASONAL SUNDAYS.  Hope to see you there!



Tonight is the tenth edition of Cuisine Kathleen's meme, "LET'S DISH".  So excited to be a charter member.  Pop over (pun intended for the Chef Supreme Kathleen) and join the fun!


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!  KC has just released her 5th studio CD project, "The Tag Hollow Sessions".  The sold out CD release concert was this past weekend.  "The Tag Hollow Sessions" 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!






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.

38 comments:

  1. Can you see me, Cherry Kay? Can you see me? I'm giving you a "standing O", girlfriend!!! Way to go! I know it can be tough to serve large groups, but you knocked it dead!!! Yes, ma'am!!! Bravo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. I just love those beautiful tablecloths! Your china is lovely and I adore the stemware.

    Thank You for sharing and have a wonderful night!

    Aledia @ Plum Perfect

    ReplyDelete
  3. Absolutely stunning...from the table linens to the china, to the crystal, to the centerpieces. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful tables each week, Cherry Kay.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I'm sure that the bride's family must have felt well and truly welcomed by their son-in-law-to-be's family and friends!
    What is a 'Round the Clock Shower'?

    ReplyDelete
  5. I can imagine how special each of your guests felt when they entered your home. The bride and her mother must have been over the moon with all the beautiful place settings. Each table is breathtaking. Thank you so much for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  6. What a beautiful luncheon. I love those tablecloths. The mix and match of china and dishes is just perfect.I would have enjoyed lingering over this table.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Your tables are very elegant, cherry Kay. Love the toile textiles, the beautiful place settings, and the colorful flowers. I know this bride felt honored. You didn't miss a detail! Cute idea to have the clocks with the centerpiece. Your Luneville tureen was a great find. ~ Sarah

    ReplyDelete
  8. Simply gorgeous! And impressive, to be able to entertain large groups so beautifully! I love the photo in which the sun casts pink shadows through the crystal and onto the tablecloth. Lovely!

    ReplyDelete
  9. Absolutely stunning. I love the continuity and the beautiful pieces special for each table. What a lovely party I'm sure!

    ReplyDelete
  10. Cherry Kay, this post has convinced me once and for all, that I prefer variety to everything matching and being repeated! I love the different plates and colors of stemware, the tureens, etc. Even the variety of chairs! You kept some items the same, like the chargers and flatware, so it isn't a hodge podge, but it is just gorgeous to look at!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Exquisite table. The colors and patterns are incredible.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Your tables are stunning as is your backyard. What a pretty setting for a shower. Bravo to your daughter for her excellent work.

    Hugs,
    Susan and Bentley

    ReplyDelete
  13. Oh, Cherry Kay, you are an artist! I just love how you put all of this together. Each detail is amazing. I am sure there were a lot of oooooooh's and ahhhhhhh's. I feel like I can feel the air and what it must have been like to enjoy such a meal. The food sounds perfect. I want to thank you again for telling us about eBay tablecloths. I so appreciate that tip. Your handpainted stemware is gorgeous. You are a woman of many talents.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Cherry Kay, I did go back and look at the lovely luncheon table you set with the incredible dishes!!!The tablecloths are the perfect unifying element. I have to remember that. Your back yard is so beautiful and the perfect place for such an intimate gathering. I love your pretty tureens. Smitten for sure. Cherry Kay, this is absolutely the prettiest gathering ever! xo marlis

    ReplyDelete
  15. No matter what is on the table, everything looks better with hydrangeas! I can only imagine how much the people you entertain enjoy and appreciate your always lovely tables.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Oh Cherry, you have so many incredible beautiful things. To see each set so exquisitely displayed in an outdoor setting, is a treat indeed. What an event to attend.

    - The Tablescaper

    ReplyDelete
  17. Wow! I don't know which picture is my favorite because I love everything. Every item exquisite, every detail perfect. Stunningly beautiful.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Cherry Kay, you never cease to amaze me. Once again, you pulled out all the stops to lavish your guests with beauty. Your artistically unified tables and gracious hospitality surely had them feeling pampered and treasured from the moment they arrived. Thank you for sharing your gift of entertaining with them - and us! I always love cobalt, so this was a visual treat!

    ReplyDelete
  19. Love, love, love every detail of each of your fabulous tables. You have so many beautiful pieces. I never thought of using the tureens as centerpieces and they are such a wow factor on each one. You have such beautiful taste.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Cherry Kay, you created a simply beautiful shower for a very lucky bride. Your tables are as lovely and elegant as always, and I am once again in awe of the fabulous collection of china, stemware and silver. I can't even imagine what your entire collection is like, but I would love to be a guest at one of your parties. What a treat for everyone, and to have such a beautiful day was a true blessing. Thank you for adding beauty to my week. MM

    ReplyDelete
  21. MM, thanks for stopping by for a visit. I have such a good time collecting china and elements to make a pretty table. I really believe that anyone can do the same thing. I've learned that I just need to be willing to go slowly and sometimes collect plates one at a time. The day always comes when I have enough to set a table. I rarely collect an entire service of any one pattern, and even when I do, I find that I mainly use the dinner plates and salad plates....and I adore luncheon plates....luncheon plates can also be used as salad plates...they are great in many situations. Come visit any time! Cherry Kay

    ReplyDelete
  22. You are such an "Amazing Wonderful Women"... a real asset to all ladies! I can see where your daughter gets her talent and generosity...I always feel privileged to be invited in to view your creations. I can picture you hand painting those goblets to add to your already PERFECT atmosphere! I LOVE,LOVE,LOVE that painted tureen on your inside table(is it Italian?). I also love the use of CLOCKS(they are one of my PASSIONS)...
    Thank you again and again for letting us in for a preview.
    Have a wonderful week,
    Big Hugs to you,
    Donna

    ReplyDelete
  23. Woohoo girl, you rock and then some!

    What a stunnin' luncheon. I can't imagine how welcomed and pampered your guests felt.

    You are a blessin' sweetie.

    God bless and have a fantastic day!!! :o)

    ReplyDelete
  24. Dear Cherry Kay, you certainly know how to entertain. Anyone would be in heaven to be invited to one of your glorious luncheons. The crystal, the vases, chargers and plates are simply gorgeous. What a pleasure to visit and view all of this beauty. Thank you for stopping by my blog and leaving your sweet comment.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Goodness me, wish I was invited to eat in those stunning tables, with amazing dishes and gorgeous elements, like the fab white tureens you've used as centerpieces. From the glassware to the stems. Amazing dearest Cherry Kay...I love these loveliness you shared with us and you are a very elegant hostess too. Have a wonderful holiday weekend.
    FABBY

    ReplyDelete
  26. Your tables are amazing! I can't decided which one I like best, they are all beautiful! Thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Stunning settings and gorgeous tables.
    Beautiful china too. Everything is just perfect here. Great for outdoor dinner. Thanks for sharing.
    Hope to see you on my blog:)

    ReplyDelete
  28. I can see why you house is party central. You have the perfect spot to entertain out there. Each table is so beautiful, and pulled together with the cloth.So many gorgeous pieces!
    Thanks so much for letting us peek at this wonderful shower! I have never been to one where men attended, interesting!

    ReplyDelete
  29. Cherry Kay,

    You always make me drool in every piece you set on top of your table. I don't have more words to say. FAB to the max.

    TY for sharing your incredible gorgeous treasures.

    Happy TS & a great w/end to come.

    Greetings,
    /CC

    ReplyDelete
  30. Again, your tables are awesome. The colors, the mixtures, all incredible. You are such an inspiration.

    ReplyDelete
  31. You are endlessly creative, original, and glamfantastic. What a glorious gift to give to your friends by opening up your beautiful home to host such a grand event. From the handpainted champagne flutes to the silver chargers presenting cobalt blue patterns of china, this is a party to remember. Thanks for sharing. Happy Memorial Weekend. ~CJ

    ReplyDelete
  32. Wow! Cherry you really set the most beautiful tables I've ever seen. Each one so beautiful with such rich details and gorgeous place settings! You truly have a the gift of entertaining!
    Miss Bloomers

    ReplyDelete
  33. Stunning...what beautiful tables!
    I love it all, the hydrangeas are fabulous too!
    Cindy

    ReplyDelete
  34. Stunningly beautiful! I'm sure everyone had a wonderful time. Just found your blog and so happy I did. I am impressed that you hand painted the stemware ~ just love it! Have you shared a tutorial?

    I'm a new follower and look forward to more of your talents!

    Pat

    ReplyDelete
  35. This is so elegant, Cherry Kay, so beautiful! Everything blended together, such exquisite tableware! I can just imagine how the event went. I am sure all the guests were in awe of the beautiful of the surrounding and all the tables and the bride to be must have felt so welcomed and special...Christine

    ReplyDelete
  36. These pictures are gorgeous and I adore the hydrangeas, white tureens, and various cobalt plates!!!

    Francie

    ReplyDelete
  37. My what fun it must have been setting all those lovely tables! It takes a real artist to create the kind of variety and unity with all those tables. Great job!

    ReplyDelete
  38. My what fun it must have been setting all those lovely tables! It takes a real artist to create the kind of variety and unity with all those tables. Great job!

    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