January's Winter Greetings

After an unseasonably warm December, January arrived with winter greetings. Cold temps and snow left no doubt that it's winter! Which is all right by me, since I like experiencing all four seasons (in their proper months of course, lol!).

I like huddling with hot chocolate next to the fireplace or settling down with a good book and a steaming cup of tea, as seen in Tea and Cinnamon Toast. So for an upcoming brunch I created a table that embraces the season by using plates and coordinating cups and saucers that have a wintry design of evergreens and berries with a touch of snow.

Down the center of the table is a runner with embroidered holly leaves and berries that I received from my sister. The soft linen is an earthy color, punctuated by vibrant faux amaryllis stems tied with an olive-colored ribbon.

On the luncheon-sized plates are lovely paintings of birds surrounded by various types of evergreen leaves and berries. There are eight designs in total; six are on the table. I also have the plate with the cardinal but not one with the bluebird. I have been on the hunt for it, but so far have been unwilling to pay the price for the few plates I've found.

After the sumptuous Christmas tablescapes and vignettes, I wanted something simpler for the brunch. I used only the table runner, a restrained bouquet laid directly on it, and serving pieces flanking the flowers. Matching placemats were used at the place settings on the side.

"Simpler" can be deceptive, though. The intricate etched surface of the lid and finely wrought rope-like edgings bring added beauty to the oval serving bowl. This English silver-plated piece is more than 100 years old, yet it goes beautifully with the contemporary runner and china. . .

. . . and the sleekly-curved covered bowl we received for a wedding gift.

The etching on the mid-century iced tea glasses G inherited from his mother echo the pine needles on the china.

I love to combine antique, modern and vintage items and designs - one way to make each table unique.

On the buffet are the remaining amaryllis flowers in antique cachepots, a pairing that's still holding strong since they anchored our Christmas table.

Tablescape done, there will be one less thing to do the day of the brunch. Come join us!

Resources
Runner, placemats | Crate & Barrel
Plates, cups, saucers | Lenox 'Winter Greetings'
Iced tea glasses | Tiffin 'Margo'
Flatware | Oneida 'Juilliard'