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.
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Marlis @ CREATIVE JOURNEYS and I have long wanted to design a "Tables for Two" using the Schumann china that we both enjoy so much. It just seemed perfect for a Valentine's celebration, and I was also hosting a birthday luncheon for my dear friend today.
Early in my marriage, I always saved my good china, "the good stuff" for important occasions and usually for dinners only...not luncheons. With that in mind, Question: What can we do to make the "good stuff" suitable for use any time of the day?
Tidbit: This time I decided to pair a whimsical ticking striped tablecloth with my fou fou china. An extremely inexpensive eBay find, I love the tone that this cloth set. Do you have other ideas to make your "good stuff" more versatile?
Anchoring my place setting is the MARYLAND CHINA CO. Bernadotte Charger Plate. I have searched for affordable, good looking white chargers for a long time, and I happened across this company on line. They primarily manufacture a variety of white patterned blanks to market to china painters. Their prices are reasonable, and the quality of the plate is good. Click on the link and check them out for yourself.
Cast in the starring role as leading lading is the Schumann Empress Dresden Flower Dinner Plate. Several years ago, I scored a "deal of the century" on a service for 10 in this gorgeous vintage pattern, and I've added additional pieces here and there. I always imagine that Marie Antoinette might have enjoyed dining on this pattern...or not...Marie and I were never really that close.
Acting as an "extra" in the ensemble, I used the Haviland Ranson Schleiger #1 Luncheon Plate just to add an extra spark of white to the stack...to frame the...
.
...Empress Dresden Flower Accent Plate, a.k.a. salad plate. The accent plate would eventually...
...host our Nana's antique French crystal compote and under plate...
...the perfect prop for our first course...Strawberry Soup. Are you reading "whimsy", yet?
I had fun with a number of small details today...a supporting cast, if you will...
She she china screams for she she silver...Reed & Barton's Francis I. The individual salt cellar is also Dresden Flower. I found them in an antiques store.
Our Nana's given name was Minnie Adeline. I adore this antique linen napkin with its monogrammed organdy insert from her collection. Today they are held with the Coalport Countryware Napkin Ring.
The Empress Reticulated Ramekin was placed on the table to hold butter for each guest.
As long as I was playing with some of the "good stuff", I chose to use two of my wedding crystal goblets...
...The Lalique Treves Goblet was used for wine,...
...The Lalique Angel Flute held Mimosas, served as we took our seats.
The angel face carved at the base of the bowl is such a special touch for this goblet. If I had to choose all over again, I'd still choose this piece.
...And as always, the Waterford Simply Pink Goblet gives another strong performance in this ensemble cast.
Holding court in the centerpiece is the Rosenthal Sansoucci Tureen, an estate sale find, surrounded by a quartet of...
...classic Lenox Urns filled with a variety of blooms from my concierge florist...Sam's Warehouse, of course!
A single pink heart in each arrangement is the lone reference to Valentine's Day. Instead, I told my seasonal story with color. The lacy mercury glass votives added a spot of shine when lighted.
After our Strawberry Soup, I served Grilled Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto. It was accompanied by a Spinach Salad and Hot Bread. Dessert was my mama's Brandy Ice.
As snow flakes steadily fell outside, we dined and visited long into the afternoon. It was a marvelous winter day for fellowship with dear friends. I would dearly love to create a table for you if you happen to pass my way! Happy Valentine's Day!
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Wednesday is the 48th edition of Cuisine Kathleen's meme, "LET'S DISH". I'm excited to be a charter member. Pop over (pun intended for the Chef Supreme Kathleen) and join the fun!
Lots of great ideas to be gathered when you visit Yvonne at Stone Gable forTUTORIALS, TIPS, & TIDBITS. Don't waste another moment...hurry on over!
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 THURSDAYS." 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.
I always enjoy February as we begin to pass from winter and anticipate Spring. How about you? With thankfulness for her dedication and efforts (even in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy), I'm joining the multi-talented Tablescaper for her fabulous meme SEASONAL SUNDAYS. Hope to see you there!
I always enjoy February as we begin to pass from winter and anticipate Spring. How about you? With thankfulness for her dedication and efforts (even in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy), I'm joining the multi-talented Tablescaper for her fabulous meme SEASONAL SUNDAYS. Hope to see you there!
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 "The Tag Hollow Sessions"" 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!
I just loved everything about this table. I love the casual elegance of it. The china pattern is just one of the most beautiful patterens I have ever seen and I was not familiar with that pattern at all, stunning. And the photo with the fireplace in the background and you mentioned snow still on the ground, that photo is very telling. I think this is one of the most beautiful tables I have ever seen. Thanks for the tip about the chargers, I don't have any white chargers but would love to have some and I will check out the website.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn/A Southerner's Notebook
That is one fabulous table.. I love the stripe!!! What a perfect backdrop for those lovely dishes. I used a tureen too, but sans lid! I really looked for pink goblets and have yet to put my fingers on some that are reasonable in sets of 12! I love the Lenox urns with the flowers. The white dishes really tone down the formality of the plates. It was sooo much fun to do a table for two! Especially with you. Have a very happy Valentine's day.. xo marlis
ReplyDeleteEach table is more beautiful than the last. I just love all your glasses and dish ware and so wonderfully put together.
ReplyDeleteWish I had been there for lunch!
Regards,
Mary
Beautifully done! I just visited Marli's blog and its interesting to see the same china used in different settings. Those stems with the angels are so pretty! I like the ticking stripe paired with this setting. Love the florals around the tureen...fabulous look!
ReplyDeleteCherry Kay - what fun to see what you and Marlis did with your china. You table is to "die for"! Love all of the flowers and the beautiful crystal! Happy Valentine's Day tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteThis table is one of the most beautiful from you I've seen dear friend! Your centerpiece design is stunning with the beautiful roses sorrounding the white tureen..exquisite! The dishes are to die for, this china is so gorgeous and unique. Thank you for sharing. Happy Valentine's!
ReplyDeleteFabby
Your china is stunning! Love the flowers in urns and the salt cellars are precious - would love to be sitting at this pretty table!
ReplyDeleteHi cherry Kay, it's fun to see how both you and Marlis used your exquisite dishes. I love your Nana' darling compotes for the strawberry soup. The Lenox urns look so wonderful all decked out in fabulous flowers. Happy ❤ Day.
ReplyDeleteSuch a beautifully elegant table! The china is gorgeous. A very inspiring table.
ReplyDeleteJocelyn @
http://justalittlesouthernhospitality.blogspot.com
The Lalique Angel Flutes are lovely. I would have chosen them also. I just visited Marlis' blog, and the two of you have done an amazing job with your tables. The china pattern is so beautiful. Thanks for the info on the white chargers. I will check that out.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful table as always, Cherry Kay. I love the stripes with the floral plates. Very pretty china pattern.
ReplyDeleteWhen the notion hits, I set the table with fine china, crystal and sterling...we use the sterling as often as any of the other flatware in the house. I don't believe in saving anything for "best"...if I am not good enough to use it whenever, then who is!
You do magic with flowers!
Thanks for sharing.
You guys are just too much! Both tables are tip-top!!! I am a HUGE fan of using "the good stuff" for luncheons and even brunch. There's no need to wait because every meal deserves a little extra special attention! The table covering is terrific and really helps to set the luncheon tone. Your "floral concierge" always comes through for you, and you did a fantastic job on the arranging. I like that your table was no O.D.ing on Valentine-y stuff. Just a little nod...perfect. I LOVE those little dudes for the butter! How cute!!! From the linen to the china to the flowers...everything is just beautiful! Have a Happy Valentine's Day!!!
ReplyDeleteCherry Kay, This is just gorgeous. Even though there is no real Valentine item, it is still extremely romantic! The flowers complement the dishes perfectly. I don't mind using my fine china, but my wedding china doesn't come out as often as it has been discontinued and I get nervous! The table covering works so well to tone done the formality and add a touch of happy. Just beautiful!! Linda
ReplyDeleteHi Cherry Kay, You created a stunning table using the casual ticking striped tablecloth with your fine china and crystal. The Schumann china is stunning you and Marlis are using. I love how you paired it with the stems and silver. I'm sure your luncheon was a big hit with your guests. I love how you and Marlis do the "Tables for Two"!!!!
ReplyDeleteHappy Valentine's Day.
~Emily
The French Hutch
So pretty! The centerpiece is gorgeous! I just came from seeing Marlis' pretty table too. I didn't know the "Tables for Two" had started (we talked about it a long time ago) is anybody organizing them as to who has the same china, etc.
ReplyDeleteHappy Valentine's Day!
Katherine
I think your china transitioned to lunch beautifully. The combination of the more informal striped cloth, using a round table, and keeping the centerpiece low, really creates an elegant but casual table. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteVery pretty table! I love your dishes. Your little flower urns are perfect for not taking up a lot of room yet give you a nice centerpiece. The flowers themselves are just beautiful.
ReplyDeleteSuch a beautiful table -- and you and Marlis have beautiful stuff! I'm particularly interested in the Schumann china as that is my family name. I'm going to track it down and maybe I can score a resale shop find!
ReplyDeleteCherry Kay, this is so gorgeous! Very feminine! I am going to remember your tip about using ticking with fancy china and share it with my daughter, whose inherited Rosalinde china is a bit frou-frou for her usual entertaining style. Thanks for the giggle about you and Marie not being that close! Happy Valentine's Day!
ReplyDeleteI just commented on Marlis' blog that this dishes are my favorite of hers. What a treat to see them again on your beautiful table. Happy Valentine's Day, Cherry Kay!...Christine
ReplyDeleteI love your tablescape! The fresh flowers are so beautiful. Wish I could have been there to taste all the wonderful food you prepared for lunch :)
ReplyDeleteMy goodness, I don't know where to start it is all so beautiful. Your china is exquisite and the ticking tablecloth is so perfect. Flowers are divine and the grouping and the containers look like a magazine! Your crystal is so elegant. Strawberry soup is pretty . I actually made it one time years ago. Thank you for the source for your chargers. I have wanted some for a while now so it is going to be very tempting to want to order. They really look good with your china. Happy Valentine's Day, Cherry Kay!
ReplyDeleteWow! What a table you've put together! I love it all - the gorgeous dishes, the napkins and that centerpiece. I love that. I'm drooling over here! :)
ReplyDeleteHappy Valentine's Day.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)
Wow! This is stunning! Besides the gorgeous dishes, your glasses are sooo fabulous! The pink goblets are just beautiful and the Lalique . . . I had never seen these before! Wonderful! What a fabulous table! I could look at this table for months and continue to get inspiration from it! What a fun idea to see two such completely different tables set with the same china! I'd love to see more of this!
ReplyDeleteLove the ticking as a backdrop for your she she china and the pots of color are wonderful. At this point in my life, I've decided every dish is meant to be used so I'm glad to see your china on the table.
ReplyDeleteFor the no reply blogger @ TheDishRoom: There is quite a bit of the Schumann Empress Dresden Flower on eBay and Replacements. Com. There are also additional Schumann patterns that you might like. When you start looking at the Empress, take your time and pay attention to the different variations to decide which one you want to pursue. There are actually several sizes of what are called 'large plates'. There are smooth edged plates (like Marlis's) & scalloped edged plates (like mine). You'll want to pay attention to the details. You might spend some time scrolling through the offerings on Replacements. You'll see that even among plates of the same size, some of the plate variations will be more expensive than others. It may or may not make a difference to you. You'll have some choices to make. Just remember to look closely when one pops up that looks like a good deal. It may or may not be what you've decided to collect. Also, remember that other manufacturers may have a produced a pattern that looks like the Dresden. Check the marks on the back. Just tonight, I found a set of 12 dinner plates in an eBay auction for Hammersly Dresden Sprays. Check out the resemblance to the Schumann. Happy hunting! I'd love to see when you find your own Schumann. Cherry Kay
ReplyDeleteCherry kay,
ReplyDeleteI love this idea of hosting with Marlis!!! I have enjoyed doubling my "eye candy" with the use of this elegant patterned china!!! Using a round table has its own challenges with centerpiece and visual appeal! Your tureen and then individual florals at the place settings is stunning!!! Thank you for sharing this lovely tablescape with us!!!
Fondly,
Pat
P.S. Visiting from Susan's!!!
You are so right! Our napkins we each featured this week are so similar. I'm so happy for your information and I'm going to learn more as I research these lovely linens. Your's with the monograms are stunning. I think using that earthy ticking tablecloth with your elegant china was brilliant. Thanks for all of your great posts.
ReplyDeleteLinda @ A Toile Tale
Cherry Kay, I'm late arriving to this exquisite table, but when I read on Marlis' post that you two were setting tables with your cherished Schumann china I had to rush right over. Every detail is magnificent. I like the "good stuff" used any time of day. Why not? And it looks great on the ticking cloth. Your cozy afternoon must have been perfect. I imagine no one wanted to leave this pretty setting and delicious meal.
ReplyDeleteHappy Heart Day, dear one! ~ sarah
That china is to die for! I was so glad to see that you added its salad plate on top of the white...can't cover that gorgeous design! Your crystal is a thing of beauty too--all three. Isn't it great to know you'd choose the same all over again? Thanks for visiting me too, Cherry Kay. I haven't been visiting much; I'm so glad I didn't miss this one! ~Zuni
ReplyDeleteYour flowers are stunning! They add such a special touch to a table and your setting is so warm and welcoming. It doesn't matter what time of day, when you set the table with your special things, it makes everyone feel special too. Of course Strawberry Soup is one of our favorite starters. I got the recipe for that 25 years ago and served it to my nieces and nephews when I went to visit and they have never forgotten it. We love how light and refreshing it is and the color is perfect for your table.
ReplyDeleteAnother beautiful table - I love the whimsy. I love to use everything in my china cupboards, all year long. Life is too short to leave it in the dark - so good for you for always enjoying what you have and sharing it so generously.
ReplyDeleteI wish we had a Sam's Club up here!
Those dishes are gorgeous, as is your table (as always)! As I commented to Marlis, I may have to start my own collection of these dishes! :-)
ReplyDeleteHi lovely lady.
ReplyDeleteWow! What a gorgeous Tablescape you've put together! I love it all - I love all the colors in your centerpiece and on your beautiful dishes just gorgeous, the glass are lovely also.I need to do a table like your. I'm drooling over here! :)Thanks so much for your sweet comments on my Tablescape.
XXOO Diane
Happy Valentine's Day
So, so, so pretty. I love the little arrangements around the tureen.
ReplyDeleteLovely to have you at Seasonal Sundays.
- The Tablescaper
First of all, thanks for your kind shout-out! Son ice of you.
ReplyDeleteYour table makes me swoon! I just love love love it. You china is breathtaking!!! I would certainly love to sit at your beautiful table!
Oh Cherry Kay...this table is utterly, utterly beautiful!! I adore the colors you chose to accent the shades in your gorgeous Empress Dresden Flower plates. The pink Waterford stemware takes my breath away & I just drool over that entire collection of precious pieces.
ReplyDeleteYou & your Sam's Club flowers make me smile every time! You picked my favorite shades for this table. I wish I could have been there to see it in person.
Thank you for that link to the Maryland China Co.
Mega grateful hugs for all that you share,
fondly,
Rett