Leaves of Green — and Gold, Crimson, Rust and Bronze

In the blink of an eye, the page turned to September, a sure sign that autumn is on its way! Though to be frank, autumn approaches leisurely here, not reliably arriving until late October or even early November. But that won't delay me adding fall decor in anticipation of one of my favorite seasons.

 

     

I'm delighted that you're joining me today! 

A Beautiful Day for Lunch in the Garden

Today was just about perfect! Temps toying with 80, relatively dry after a week of daily showers. All in all a beautiful day to enjoy lunch on the deck under the shade of the trees!

 

      

Explore Ireland: Dublin and Ancient Sites

Welcome to the blog today — I'm glad you could join me on a bit of exploration! Over the years we've taken a number of vacations that we enjoyed immensely. I have always intended to share them with you and I've decided that now is as good a time as any to start! (I have however shared vacation photos in several posts where they were the inspiration for styling tablescapes.) 

 

One of the trips we enjoyed the most was to Ireland. I had wanted to go there for a long time, since both Greg and I can trace our ancestry there. So off we flew, landing in Dublin. From there we headed north to the Boyne Valley in County Meath to explore Newgrange and the Hill of Slane.  

 

the River Boyne

  

 

Add Flare to Modern Tables with Beautiful Vintage Glassware

I have received many comments regarding the vintage glassware I use for styling tablescapes. So I thought I'd focus on that glassware today by sharing why I use it and how it adds flare to modern tables.

 

I'll start by saying I love crystal and glassware! I love the way it affects the play of light across the table whether it's from sunshine, candlelight, chandeliers or lamps. The shape, decoration, composition and clarity of the glassware make nearly endless combinations that add beauty and enjoyment to functional tableware. 

 

Today I'm concentrating on drinkware, though glass plates, vessels and candle holders all add their special touch to tablescapes. I also often use contemporary stemware and glasses for my tables, but I think by using vintage glassware you add a unique accent that makes a more personal statement. 

 

Navarre by Fostoria, 1973-1982

 

Fostoria began producing Navarre with its beautiful etching in clear glass in 1936. It proved to be their most popular pattern so they added several colors to the line beginning in 1973, which is why my azure stemware has an older feel to it.

 

 

A Romantic Dinner with Stunning Flowers, Elegant Dishes and Sparkling Glassware

Inspiration for setting tables can be found in many forms. One of my favorite sources for ideas are flowers — their colors, their seasonality, their forms and textures. Today I'm sharing a table that began with a stunning arrangement of flowers my husband gave me for my birthday. I wanted the table to be a lovely accompaniment for his romantic gesture.