Ok, I’ll admit it. I am not fond of orange or rust. I like those tones on trees, but not for dining room design. I decided to create a tablescape using colors I adore but would still result in a fabulously fall Thanksgiving table.
Drawing inspiration from an antique Victorian postcard, I began with an antique dove gray Métis sheet topped by a vintage charcoal damask tablecloth.
Colors that pair well with gray are various shades of cranberry~ a perfect alternative.
Here is a tiny representation of the postcard that provided my color palette. The image makes for a nice place card.
I decided to create an alternative twist on the traditional cornucopia. I began with a highly polished silver tray which gleamed beautifully against the charcoal damask cloth. The fall colored flowers were nestled in… what else…a gravy boat. A shower of grapes, fresh cranberries, and nuts spilling from heirloom baby cups completed the centerpiece.
Taking the wrapped candle concept one step further I hand dyed small pieces of antique Métis sheeting in similar gray shades.
In the evening, the candlelight flickers beautifully behind the lovely cloth.
No two medals are alike. A few of the votives were dressed in shades of gray and white.
I wanted the buffet to also feel abundant. Piles of rolls, pumpkin bread and pie look good enough to eat.
Here is a close up of the buffet centerpiece. You can see a larger image of the place card postcard (say that fast 5 times) and another postcard that features cranberry tones. Taller candles add height.
The candles were wrapped similarly to the votives but feature a larger medallion, pearls and crystals. They are nestled in silver nut dishes which feature an inscription to my MIL from a Panamanian women's group dated 1971.
Here is a close up of the velvet and silk ribbons and pretty gems.
How are you decorating your table?
For a complete candle “how to tutorial” please visit the Métis Linens blog.
Laura
The damask tablecloth, charcoal linen napkins, and candle kits are available for sale in the Metis Linen Blogtique.
Labels: Creative decor, Decor and Holiday, Hearth and Home, Holiday, Metis
