This Fall table setting starts with my recent splurge. Yes I have plenty of dishes. I do NOT need any more and yet I made a little purchase a few days ago. This was just a set of a few plates and demitasse cups and saucers. Why did I splurge? Well can you tell why I had to have these?
- They are Haviland Limoges
- They are made in France
- They are antique (at lease I believe them to be antique based on the marks.)
- Most importantly they look like they were custom made for me – Note the “A C H” which of course stands for Anita of Cedar Hill. Actually it might stand for Charles Haviland, but I would argue that.
I found these dishes on eBay.
TIP 1: Ebay is a great place to find vintage dishes.
As you can see I did not need to have a set of 8 or even 6 plates to make these work. I used them with what I already had. The other plates are simple cream and gold scalloped edged Haviland plates we had inherited. I just used the monogrammed plates at the ends of the table. So really I just needed 2 plates to make this work.
TIP 2: Mix and match your plates. They don’t all have to have the exact same pattern to work together on a table.
The other cool thing about this table setting are the ‘gold’ silverware. These pieces are from Thailand and are called ‘bronzeware.’ They are also inherited. The linen tablecloth is inherited. Although I’ve been accused of making things too simple, I still love simple things. This is an elegance in simplicity, and I like uncluttered spaces. Here I used a vintage baguette proofing board to display a few fresh pears and leaves from a shrub in my garden. I love using a short centerpiece like this because it does not block faces or conversation during a dinner party. If you live in Houston, I have a few more baguette proofing boards in my booth at Heights Antiques on Yale.
TIP 3: Three is elegance in simplicity
TIP 4: Try a short centerpiece so guests can see each other across the table.
I love working with pears and they make for a lovely centerpiece any time of year, but especially in the Fall.
Did you get your copy of French Accents yet?
I’m celebrating my 600th online sale with a little thank you. You can get a signed copy of my book for $5 off! Even if you already have a copy, I hear they make great gifts.
Just use the discount code 5OFFBOOK but hurry! The sale ends Oct 29th.
I have some book signings coming up and wanted to update you on the dates and locations.
Houston, Midtown Adkins Architectural Antiques – October 31, 2015, 2 – 4:30 PM
Houston, Spring Branch Village Antiques – November 13, 11 AM – 2 PM
Houston Heights Jubilee – November 14, 2 – 4 PM
Houston, Washington Heights The Vintique Flea – November 21, 11 AM – 7 PM
Houston, Washington Heights The Vintique Flea – November 22, 1 PM – 5 PM
Houston, Rice Village Area Three Doors Houston – December 3, 5 PM – 8 PM
Rosenburg Once Again – December 4, 1 – 5 PM
Old Town Spring Glow Worm December 5, 11 AM – 12 PM
Good advice. Yes! I bought my book. I love it!! ?
Yay Debbie!!
Simply stunning…..
Love love LOVE your monogramed dishes! I have several vintage Haviland pieces also, mainly white covered dishes w/handles which I use on holidays. Great for keeping stuffing, mashed potatoes, etc, from getting cold!
Have you considered coming to Austin on your book signing tour? We have a wonderful little store named
‘Back Home’, which specializes in the ‘French style’. I think they would love to have you!
Great idea!! Thanks Trish, I’ll look into it in a few days.
What a beautiful table! The dishes and centerpiece are just perfect. I recently scored a vintage set of gold silverware for about $8 (chest included!) at a local thrift shop. Thanks for the inspiration! ~julie
I can’t believe you found those perfect plates. Heading to Houston later this week and hope you will have time for a cup of coffee or a bite of lunch. You are a busy gal!
Anita,
Amazing find on Ebay,d ear friend!!!
I agree, 100% that those dishes complete this lovely tablescape!!!
Simple elegance , indeed!!!
Pears are my all~time favorite for home decor. . .faux and real!!!
Thank you for reminding us of the simple pleasures of family around our tables!!!
Fondly,
Pat
Anita…the dinnerware is amazing…so elegant…and I would have splurged on that set too…Beautiful table!
How absolutely fabulous – thin china & gold edges just epitomise elegance!
Gorgeous table! Those are my maiden name initials on the Haviland china so, of course, they caught my eye. You have such a great flair…I really enjoy your blog!
Yes, I can definitely see why you had to have these Anita! Gorgeous, and the initials work for you! After seeing this post, I may have to go to our antique booth and bring my gold edged French limoges dishes back home! Your table looks lovely! Yes, I have your book. I asked Emily from Pigeon in the Parlour in Holly, MI if you ever contacted her about your book. I think the folks in Holly, MI in all those shops would love your book!
Lovely table and dishes are just for you! lol
Love the tablescape. Less is more and white and gold dishes are for forever.
Smiles