Little birdies and woodland animals are just beginning to venture out as the first blooms open on my early spring table.
It’s one of twenty-six in this month’s Spring Tablescape Blog Hop. A big shoutout to Chloe of Celebrate & Decorate who is our hostess with the mostess! Organizing such a large number of bloggers is a big undertaking. And, one that takes a significant dose of patience and perseverance too!
Welcome to all! If you’re hopping over from Pam’s pretty pink and bunnies table at Everyday Living, I sure appreciate you stopping by.
Here in Pittsburgh, this really is a very early spring table. That’s because I set and photographed the tablescape way back on February 15th. There was snow on the ground and freezing temps. A few days later, hubby and I headed out for a weeklong Terrific Telluride, Colorado Ski Vacation. It was hard to think spring as I packed long underwear and ski gear, while dreaming of fresh powder lol!
But, by combining two sets of bird and animal dishes, I was able to find my early spring table mojo — with a somewhat unique color scheme.
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Spring Sneak Peak
Although I’ve had these animal and floral plates (Anthropologie) for several years, this early spring table is the first time they’ve appeared on my blog.
Designed by Texas artist, Starla M. Halfmann, each plate depicts one of four enchanting woodland creatures.
Rampart is the name of this plate, depicting a fanciful deer with flowery anthers.
A bushy tail made of whimsical flowers and patterns is depicted on the Fancy Fox II plate.
My personal favorite is Dusk, a sweet-faced raccoon.
Incorporating Heirloom China
Each plate stack began with one of two styles of gold metallic plate chargers. Next, is a white dinner plate (Mikasa) with a lattice-decorated rim. The pretty relief-edge pattern is called, English Countryside.
For this early spring table, I also used antique dinner plates (Haviland) passed down from my husband’s great-grandmother. Notice how much smaller the dinner plates are than today’s patterns? My everyday Ireland Pursuit dishes are 10.25″, the English Countryside are 11″, and the Haviland are a petite 9″.
It wasn’t until this past Thanksgiving that I opened the large box of carefully wrapped antique china. After going through each piece, I discovered there were actually three different patterns of dishes. All looked remarkably similar.
Unfortunately, many dishes were chipped or had small cracks. Or, pieces were missing lids; like the not-so-covered vegetable and sugar. I was also frustrated that the Haviland dishes lacked a label identifying the pattern name. When I tried searching on Replacements, Inc., about a zillion white, scalloped edge Haviland patterns popped up.
In the end, I kept only the Haviland dishes. That amounted to five place settings, plus a few serving pieces. After first checking with other family members, I donated the other odd and end china plates to Goodwill.
For the early spring table, I’ll use the large sugar as a gravy boat. Dressing for the salad will be laddled from a coffee cup and saucer with an antique sterling spoon. A salad will be the butter plate, and a large flat soup bowl will become a side dish server.
Finally, I’ve topped the stack by alternating one of the four styles of Anthropologie plates. Above is Sunburst Duo, which depicts a pair of colorful owls with feathery bodies made of blooms.
Which woodland animal design is your favorite plate?
I love all the beautiful colors in the scalloped-edge dessert plates, but the turquoise or teal shade is my favorite. That’s because they go so nicely with all the peacock feather shades in the dining room decor.
Tweet Little Birdies
To the left of each place setting, is a beautifully detailed white bird dish. Each will hold a small seasonal salad.
And since birds and bees go together, I flanked each setting with Napoleon Bee flatware (Wallace).
Four different styles of bird dishes (Grace’s Teaware) decorate the early spring table.
You might remember them from last year’s, A Tweet Tablescape to Welcome Spring.
That early spring table also included the English Countryside dinner plate, but in a more casual setting in the kitchen.
I’ve used a white on white linen tablecloth that belonged to my mother-in-law for the early spring table. It’s decorative cutout and raised embroidery design compliment the relief details on the bird plates.
For contrast, and to tie-in with the main color in the woodland plates, I incorporated a turquoise runner into the tablescape.
It first debuted in, Exotic Peacock Tablescape. Now, I use it regular on top of the mahogany table.
But, for the early spring table, I simply reversed it with the velvet and peacock side down.
The dark turquoise runner provides a nice contrast to the white bird plates. Don’t you just love the little birdie perched on the edge of each dish?
Flower Power
I’ve also carried the turquoise color through in the glassware and napkins. Here’s the teal-swirl tumbler that also appeared in the Exotic Peacock Tablescape.
Both the turquoise tumblers and stemware were purchased for serving a Peacock Theme Menu for a My Favorite Things Party. Turquoise bubbles or swirls decorate the stemware that were originally used to serve peacocktails.
For the early spring table, I replaced a peacock tail feathers napkin fold, with a large floral bloom. Perched on top of each flower napkin is a white bird place card.
Although more involved than the rose featured In the Pink Valentines Day Table, the fold is not difficult. See how to make your own in four steps at Pretty Flower Napkin Fold Tutorial.
Yes, I know there is no such thing as a large turquoise flower in nature. But in Pittsburgh — in mid-February — an early spring table is wishful thinking!
Time to Hop
Twenty-six tables are set to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and welcome spring from around the country. If you’re following in order from top to bottom, head next to visit with Carole From My Carolina Home and her sunny yellow table with adorable watering can accents.
The Painted Apron ♣ Everyday Living ♣ Debbee’s Buzz ♣ From My Carolina Home
Home and Gardening with Liz ♣ Create With Cynthia ♣ Bluesky at Home ♣ Harbour Breeze
The Little Yellow Corner Store ♣ Sweet Sensations ♣ Belle Blue Interiors
Corner of Plaid and Paisley ♣ Zucchini Sisters ♣ Life and Linda ♣ Intelligent Domestications
First Day of Home ♣ White Arrows Home ♣ Calypso in the Country ♣ Celebrate & Decorate
Wearing the Green
In case you were wondering, I survived four days of skiing in Telluride in one unbroken piece. However, I am sporting a few bruises and one nasty blister lol! I just finished regrouping today, and look forward to sharing pictures of the gorgeous mountain views and charming Victorian town soon.
But, now it’s time to set a Casual St. Patrick’s Day Table & DIY Shamrock Glasses.
I’ll also be switching the dining room over to an Elegant, Easy Shamrock Tablescape for St. Patrick’s Day.
Will your table be wearing the green for St. Paddy’s Day?
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I regularly participate in: Metamorphous Monday, Share Your Style, Tablescape Thursday, Thursday Favorite Things, Saturday Sparks, Happiness is Homemade, and Love Your Creativity.
Lovely, and I adore your napkin flowers with the bird place cards!! So clever!
Thank you Carole. At first I was a little frustrated trying to get the look I wanted in the napkin fold, but after a few false starts I figured it out, lol! I like that they also easily come apart once guests remove them from the glasses.
Pretty Anthro floral animal plates Debbee and you know I love those bird dishes! I inherited some Limoges dishes from a great aunt years ago and they’re similarly hard to identify the pattern. As always it’s a treat to join you at the table and blog hop with you. Happy March ♥
There wouldn’t bee those bird plates (taking up so much storage space lol!) if it wasn’t for your fabulous table setting several years ago, Mary. Hoping I can figure out the Haviland pattern someday, as that would also help to date them. We aren’t sure if they were hubby’s grandmothers or great grandmothers — I suspect the later. I love knowing they graced the table of many a family gathering.
Debbee, It is hard to style a spring table in the dead of winter! It also is hard to be packing for a trip at the same time as styling a table but you did a great job.
Those whimsical plates catch the eye immediately. I like the turquoise runner and napkins. Great napkin fold with the cute bird. Tweet turquoise was a clever title!
I personally love using our grandmother’s and mother’s dishes.
I do find it challenging to think spring in February Bonnie, especially because that’s usually when our family skis. So glad you enjoyed the title and unusual color scheme. Like you, I feel so fortunate to have things passed down in the family. Even if they aren’t what I’d choose, it’s knowing all the other family tables they were part of. Just hoping my adult sons and future DILs will appreciate and want them.
Your table is gorgeous as usual but it’s those peacock tail feathers napkins that stole my heart! Oh My Goodness, those are too pretty for words! Not sure why, but pretty folded napkins speak to me!
I love all of your Peacock things!
Hope you recoup from the ski trip quickly. Glad it was only bruises and no broken bones! Happy Spring!
Shirley, you are always so generous in your comments — thank you! Yes, I’ve become a napkin folding addict! I think I’ve mastered 8 now. A lot less expensive and easy storage than acquiring more dishes lol! We had a wonderful week in Telluride. I’m very appreciative that at my age I can still ski, but confess to always being a little apprehensive before we go. Best part was getting to know my son’s girlfriend — she’s a sweetie.
hi Debbee, the peacock blue elements in your tablescape remind me of spring robin’s egg nests! It really sets off your Anthro animal plates beautifully! The white bird dishes are delightful! Very pretty!
Jenna, why didn’t I think to call it robin egg blue! Should have consulted with you first! I am always on the search for “true blue” perennials and annuals, but there are few out there that aren’t actually purple.
Love the colors you chose. I always adore seeing peacocks. I do love those Anthropoligie plate and I love that Fox with the floral tail! You were smart to do the tablescape before your trip!
Liz, I should have known you’d be partial to the fox. As I recall, you made an adorable front door wreath with a fox as the central element? Styling and photographing the table before we left was a necessity due to the timing. But, it’s also why there are no fresh flowers on the table. Of course, there isn’t anything blooming here in Pittsburgh yet anyway.
Your table is just beautiful with the rich turquoise color palette! The pretty Anthropology plates make the perfect accompaniment. It has been so much fun being on the blog hop with you. Happy March!!!
Thanks so much Shannon, happy to hop with you too!
Those colorful plates are gorgeous and pick up the turquoise perfectly. Such a great color choice for a spring table! I also love how the white pieces really stand out on the table. Beautiful!
Shelley
Thanks Shelley! I forgot I had those plates — I have too much stuff and not enough storage space LOL! They were a happy “rediscovery” over the holidays and I’ve been anxious to use them in a table hop. Always a pleasure joining you!
What a great find on those animal plates, they’re all adorable but the fox is really cute. Turquoise is a striking color and one that we don’t see often enough in spring. What fun it must have been to discover all those treasures in the box of china (even with some pieces missing). Have a wonderful spring!
Sandra, Anthropologie has some gorgeous plates and stemware, but boy they tend to be pricey! Fortunately, I found the animal plates on a post Christmas sale. But, like most of their stuff, the plates have to be hand washed. They do go beautifully though with my peacock decor and colors in the dining room. It was fun and frustrating going through the box of china, as so many pieces were chipped. I hope to find the pattern name because I’d love to purchase a 6th place setting if I could.
Deb, your woodland plates are too cute! They are so lovely paired with the classic white dishes. Happy to be hopping with you again!
Thank you Cecilia. I really enjoy pairing new with vintage, and mixing and matching my tableware to style new looks.
Debbee, this is a very handsome table for spring, and I think perfectly suited with your timing of events! The turquoise is such a richly saturated hue (smart thinking flipping the runner). That cutwork tablecloth is fabulous, and looks so feminine (I get that masculine/feminine vibe in how this is set, which I love). Those cutwork cloths are such a bear to iron well! Speaking of bears, while there are none on those great plates, they are all so fab with their floral headdresses. I think the owls are my faves, but really, they’re all great. Nice napkin fold, pretty accents with the bird salads and place cards. Unique, and I love it!
ps wondering if the blister was from rented skis? Our winter took a wrong turn when Mr P fell at home back in Jan, now nursing a T12 fracture.
First, I’m so sorry about your hubby’s fall and injury — hope it isn’t too painful for him. The blister may have been caused by the rental boots, but not because they weren’t comfortable to wear or a good fit (even with my old lady bunions lol!). What wasn’t so great about the boots is that the buckles kept opening on me. I complained about the discomfort for a couple of runs before discovering an open buckle hidden under my ski pants. That’s when I think the rubbing/pinching happened. Fortunately, a large bandage kept it feeling fine for the next three days.
You are very observant in regard to noticing the masc/fem balance in the tablesetting. With three guys in the family, my home decor tends to be less fussy/frilly. And, you are right about the tablecloth too! Ugh, I hated ironing it again. Especially because there’s just so much of it!
Stay tuned for a DIY on the napkin fold and a recap on Telluride!
Debbee, I do agree….the turquoise color runner really makes these gorgeous plates pop! My favorite are the deer and fox, but they all are so unique and charming. I would find it difficult to think of Spring too if I was planning to visit Telluride, Colorado. I always wanted to visit Telluride with my daughter who lives in Fort Collins. I am sure that after a trip to Colorado, you are ready to think Spring and enjoy this lovely, rich tablescape. So exquisite. It is a pleasure to blog hop with you. Happy Spring.
Delighted you enjoyed the color scheme and woodland plates Marsha! My husband would love if one of our sons lived in Colorado — he keeps threatening to move us there! I understand Telluride and Breckenridge (where we went last year) are beautiful and fun in the summer too. Actually, I imagine the entire state is. Yes, I am now ready for spring, but in Pittsburgh it’s likely still a month or more away. I’ll have to settle for visiting the flower show for now lol!
Debbee, I love the Anthro plates and I don’t think I have ever seen them before…they are so fun. The sweet bird plates are the perfect addition to the table. Love the plate stack and the turquoise napkin fold is so pretty. I love your attention to detail. We used to ski in Colorado every winter, I haven’t been to Telluride, but hubby has and he loved it. Happy March!
Thank you Pam, like you I so enjoy planning and styling a table. I love the happy reaction of guests when sitting down to a meal. How nice to have skied Colorado yearly! We’ve been four times now and loved every place. But Telluride mountain views were the most fabulous and the town was charming and fun.
Very pretty table Debbee. Love those plates! How unique and then you added turquoise, a favorite. Your napkin folds are lovely. A wonderful table for spring. Happy March.
Thanks so much Linda! I think I’ve finally pulled out all my dishes to share in one tablescape or another.
All your tables are so beautiful. My favorite is the deer plate and I can’t wait to learn how to make flower napkins that get placed in wine glasses. I love your little bird salad plates too. So nice hopping with you.
How very nice of you to say Cynthia — thank you! I was pretty pleased with how the napkins turned out, although the blooms aren’t able to freestand on a plate without collapsing.
Your table looks beautiful. Glad you enjoyed yourself in Colorado and made it back safe and sound!
Thanks Bobbi Jo! Telluride was gorgeous and fun. Not much new powder, but after a couple of days I got the hang (i.e. over my intimidation) of skiing in icier conditions.
Wow, Debbee! There are so many great details here! I love your layered plates, those peacock accents, and the dramatic centerpiece. You have such a lovely collection of plates and dishes. I’m going to be on the lookout for those Anthro plates now!
Gee thanks Crissy! The two floral centerpieces and peacock runner are part of my everyday decor on the mahogany dining room table. Due to space limitations, I think I’ve maxed out on any new tableware. Will just have to keep re-imagining what I already have. Unfortunately, I think the plates are retired and that’s why I got them on clearance.
Love the colours used in the spring tablescape and while all the plates are fabulous must admit the owl plate is my favourite. Beautiful napkin fold to hold the bird place card and love the little white plates with the birds…a three dimensional piece of china always adds such interest! Isn’t it a shame when antique china gets chipped or cracked…my mother’s china is a bit of a mess as she used to put it into a hot oven to warm them before serving up the food. Lovely to see the spring colours and your creative take on the theme.
The owl plate is definitely the most colorful, detailed. I hope you’ll try out the napkin fold after I share it next week Alayne. Sorry about the condition of your mom’s china. Part of the reason I was disappointed there was no pattern name for the Havilland, is that I’d really like a sixth place setting and to find the missing lids.
Debbee, how unique and elegant your table is with those gorgeous animal plates. I think the owls might be my favorites, but it is certainly difficult to choose among them! The star of your table, in my opinion is that gorgeous napkin fold! What a lovely bloom, especially perched on top of your crystal stemware! thanks for joining us and Happy Spring!
So glad you liked it Chloe, as I struggled to to come up with a concept before Valentines Day. You’ll have to try that fold sometime. I’m thinking of using yellow napkins next; pairing it with my bee tableware.
Exquisite plates!They made me swoon!Love the turquoise runner too!Beautiful table!
Hi Maristella, thanks for stopping by to comment. So good to hear you liked the table I first struggled with putting together. I felt the same way about the bird and animal plates and why I’m a hopeless plate addict lol!
Loved the elegance of your table, the Anthro dishes, the flower napkin folds, and especially, the little bird dishes. Your attention to detail is awesome.
Thanks so much Kathy! I do love getting into the details — it’s all part of my need to have a theme and run with it.
This table is absolutely stunning, you did a fantastic job! I love those plates! They are truly pieces of art! I love your take on this a spring table with the teal, such a great color that doesn’t get used enough in my opinion! Hope you have a wonderful rest of your evening and a very happy spring!
Thank you Kristin, that’s so nice of you to say! Because of my “peacock passion” I have a thing for teal and use it as an accent color in the living, dining rooms and front hall of my house.
What a beautiful table! I love so many things about it, but especially the “tweet” little salad dishes. What a cute idea. It’s been a joy blog hopping with you guys. You’re such a sweet and encouraging group. Happy Spring to you!
Thanks so much Rita Joy! It’s lovely having you join the group. I was a newbie just two years ago. Looking forward to more hops with you1
Hello Debbee – I believe your Haviland is of the Ranson pattern. I was fortunate to inherit this pattern from my great-grandmother. Your table is beautiful!
Thanks so very much for the pattern name! I can’t wait to do a little research and possible shopping hunt! How fun is it that both you and I inherited pieces the same china. But, however did figure out the pattern name?
I sent a picture to Replacements. They’re quite responsive. Of course then I had to buy some extra pieces :-)
Those plates are so beautiful!
Can’t believe I forgot all about them — hidden in the back of a shelf!
Another stunning table my friend. Love the jewel tones and extraordinary centerpiece. Everything about your table makes me smile. From the regal peacock to the twig flatware, I love it all! It’s always a pleasure to hop with you. Pinned. Hugs!
Thanks so much Katherine —making someone smile has got to be one of the nicest compliments!
Debbee, I love your plate stack! The embellished edges of the two wide plates are really lovely together! Isn’t it crazy how much smaller the vintage plates are?! Your napkin flower is so creative and really stands out! I love the color you have chosen and all the little bird accents! Nothing says spring like hearing the birds singing outside after a long winter!
Or crazier still how big plates are today?! Everything is so big these days. I liked the vintage vibe of Restoration Hardware furniture until it got so gigantic — coffee tables that took up an entire room lol! So delighted you enjoyed the color scheme and plate stack Maureen. I’m working now on a post to show how I made the flower fold.
I enjoy your blog, Debbie. You are so creative. I am from Bethel Park, PA having moved from there to CA years ago so I feel like I am hearing from a fellow Pittsburgher. Sure do miss it! I have my grandmother’s white with gold rim Haviland place settings for 12 along with a large array of serving dishes. I treasure it and use it for family holiday dinners. Thank you for such an interesting blog!
BP — that is so neat! My husband grew up there. So glad you reached up Suzanne — made my day! Do you still have family here; come to visit? Lucky you to have such a large Havilland collection especially one that was passed down in the family. A true heirloom.
Blue is my favorite color and I love all the shade of it on your table. Thank you for sharing at Party In Your PJ’s!
Glad you enjoyed the color scheme of the table Ann. Always fun to party in my PJ’s with you lol!
Those Anthropologie plates are gorgeous, Debbee! I love the colors…my favorite is the pair of owls. I’m glad to hear you got a good deal on them. Clearance sales are the best! They look great with your vintage cream china. The teal accents on your table makes a unique spring color scheme! It’s always fun hopping with you. Happy Spring!
Thanks so much Rebecca! I struggled at first to come up with a new spring table setting, but in the end am very happy how it came together.
Your table is gorgeous! I love the colorful animal plates! You are so creative and talented. It is always so much fun to be hopping with you. Happy Spring, my friend! Pinned!
Thanks Lynne, that’s sweet of you to say. I was surprised when I realized this was the first time I set a table with the animal plates. That’s what happens when you have so much stuff stored all over the place, lol!
I do love the little bird perched on the plate! So cute. This table is a great mix of traditional and whimsy mixed together which makes it very interesting.
Thanks for sharing it and your other posts on the FWF link party.
The perched birdies are what made me have-to-have those dishes, but boy does that make it tough to store ’em lol! Appreciate you stopping by for a visit Rachelle.
Debbee – love this table!! The anthropologie plates are adorable and those bird plates – oh my! Just love the color palette! Thanks for sharing!
Ahh thanks Kim! Hoping the weather changes soon here in Pittsburgh so I can reset that tablescape.
I’m admiring the animal plates. They are all cute, but my fav is the owl. Hope you are having a good week!
Thanks for sharing at the FWF party. Hugs!
Gorgeous table setting! I love the plates with animal artwork as well as the peacock blue elements. Pinned.
Thanks so much Carol! I do have a passion for peacocks, reflected in Exotic Peacock Tablescape. When I saw the coloring in those plates, I had to have them.
LOVE this table Debbee! That blue is stunning and everything else complements it. You’ve inspired me once again. Happy Spring to you!
Thanks so much Barbara. It’s nice to be able to use that color for multiple table themes and seasons.