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.
