Something I discuss with my design clients is the “formality” of an object. Our generation seems to think of many items that grandmothers use as super formal and too good to use. My response is that it’s up to you how you use any object in your home. I love the beauty in formal things and I enjoy using them. Thus, pull out the formal china and set it up on your picnic table outside!
The Grounds
To create this tablescape, I knew I wanted to set the picnic table outside. My family has gathered under these oak trees for several holidays many, many years. It feels like home. I also knew I want to use my turquoise Florentine Wedgwood china. It was my grandmother’s and she gave it to me when I got married; I’ve admired it for years!
To make the turquoise stand out and bring out the rich browns in the pattern, I chose to use these feathered placemats. The feathers add color and texture while nodding to the surrounding woods. For a further pop, I chose a turquoise geometric fabric as my tablecloth. I just unrolled the bolt right there! It adds a touch of modernity with the rustic elements of feathers and greenery.
The Place Setting
I love pulling out the formal pieces and borrowing from family. I think my grandmothers and relatives are pleased when we use their items. It feels so special to create a tablescape where each item came from someone who loves you. So if you feel like you’re missing something from your table, just borrow it from your family. I’m sure they would be happy to lend it to you for a special ocassion!
The silver goblets are my other grandmother’s and I adore the mix of gold and silver on the table. They look so pretty next to my mom’s gold leaf frosted tumblers. My mom also let me use her silver flatware and mother of pearl forks. I chose a clean and crisp white hemstitched napkin with simple gold napkin ring.
The Centerpiece
To add color and resemble the season, I used this pheasant soup tureen as a centerpiece. It’s another borrowed item from my mom! I simply cut some greenery from shrubs in the yard to add to it. It really makes it pop.
On a small business note…my mother purchased this years ago from an adorable home decor shop. It’s a prime example of how when we invest in beautiful items from our local small businesses, we treasure those items and use them year after year.
Similar Sources
While many of these items are borrowed and inherited, I tried to find similar items to link for you. Many of them are from small businesses on Etsy! Maybe you’ll pass them on to your family or let them borrow them, too!
