December 17, 2020

Christmas in Red and Gold

We have traditionally celebrated Christmas Eve with a wonderful dinner, served on a lovely table set with fine china and elegant crystal. Although our traditions and most of yours have been upended this year, I see no reason to discontinue doing the things that bring joy and comfort during the holiday season.

So with my daughter's help, I've set our table with tradition in mind, but with modern elements that particularly appealed to her. Smaller yet intimate in the twilight, you're invited to join us at the table!

  
Since she was doing most of the fetching and carrying (too risky for me on crutches!), I simplified the process by using only a soft linen runner on the bare table. On the minimal base, each layer is highlighted.
 
 
Chargers that look luxurious but were inexpensive distribute the gold from the magnolia garland across the table. Their scalloped edges add a casual note. A bit of brass rims the napkin rings and brightens the center of the plate stack.

 
Leaves and berries in the garland sit comfortably with the sparkle of the china, crystal and silverware.

 
I think the details make all the difference in a tablescape. Miss J layered colorful patterned ornaments in hurricanes for a festive centerpiece. She used Shiny Brite ornaments (recently bought) that remind me of the array of similar ornaments that decked my childhood trees.


 Charming salt and pepper shakers playfully anchor opposite corners of the table.

 
 
 
 

Greg gave me the beautiful dinner and salad plates as Christmas and birthday presents. I received the matching cake plate this year! I was disheartened to learn the pattern has been discontinued.

 
I found the cranberry stemware at an antique mall and hurriedly claimed a set of eight! It's been fun researching the pattern and manufacturer.


Photos taken at twilight can be tricky. I was a bit early for the blue hour, which is always so pretty in photos.

 
The buffet was minimally decorated with a bowl of ornaments and greenery, flanked by the antique/vintage candelabra that I first used on our Thanksgiving table

 

 
Although we're still decorating throughout the house, the dining room is ready for Christmas!

 






Merry Christmas



Table resources
Plates | Bernardaud 'Grenadiers'
Silverware | Reed and Barton 'Eighteenth Century'
Stemware | Steuben 'Rose Swirl'


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16 comments:

  1. Such a lovely table. The china is understated and so beautiful. I love that it's different than the more traditional Christmas settings (but I love those too!). I've been humming "Nutcracker" music since seeing your table. Hard to believe they are discontinuing this.

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    1. Thank you so much! I have several Christmas china patterns, each one different than the others, all loved for different reasons. I'm going to try to get a few more pieces of this pattern though. Merry Christmas!

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  2. What time did you say, Sandra?
    Just kidding of course. But, it's a lovely table and so inviting.

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    1. Dinner's at eight, lol! Thanks for coming to visit (virtually)!

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  3. What a beautiful table Sandra! I love that you and your daughter share/update the traditions! ;) Hope you have a wonderful Christmas!

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    1. Thanks, Barbara! She has loved tablescapes for quite a long time, but it has only been since she had her own place that she's been interested in actually creating them, lol.

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  4. Sandra, that cranberry stemware is gorgeous--pinned! Thanks for sharing your pretty tablescape at Vintage Charm!

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    1. Thanks, Cecilia! The stemware is even prettier in person!

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  5. Your daughter did a wonderful job filling in for you. I hope you had a wonderful holiday this year. #HomeMattersParty is back this week and I look forward to what you are doing in the New Year.

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    1. Thanks, Donna, we've had a wonderful two weeks, low-key but wonderfully spent with our daughter.

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  6. I love the wall colors. So beautiful. Christmas decors are awesome. Glad you had lovely time with your daughter. Happy Chritmas season. Love Sujatha:)

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    1. Thanks so much, Sujatha! Now that it’s December, I’ve gotten into the spirit of decorating. Hugs

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  7. Your dining room decor and table are very pretty. I agree; too bad about the china!

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    1. Thanks, Linda! I’ll be on the lookout for additional pieces!

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  8. Sandra,
    Once again you have set a beautiful table. You have such lovely dishes. Congratulations, you are being featured on Thursday Favorite Things. I hope you stop by. https://www.eclecticredbarn.com/2021/12/thursday-favorite-things-party_0771825740.html
    Hugs,
    Bev

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    1. Bev, that’s so sweet of you to feature my table at the party! I think this is one of my favorite tables I’ve done for Christmas.

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