Vintage Tablescape Inspirations

Every Christmas I find there is a standout gift or gifts that will be remembered for years to come. They are not remembered because of their size or cost, but mostly because of the feelings they evoke. We remember them vividly because of the setimentality attached. This was one of those years for me.
As those of you who are followers and visitors know, I am new to Tablescaping blogging. My family knows that this long time passion has finally found a means of expression. For Christmas, each one selected a gift that expressed their support. I don't know yet if they secretly planned it this way, but the result was awesome!

Today I am posting four "of my favorite things" - you'll see why! I made a cup of tea, and sat in the only quiet spot in the house to savor my treats - Oh and some homemade cookies too!
The Lenox Teapot, the first of my favs can be seen to the right is from my dear patient Hubby.

What's that sitting to the left you ask?

Well, that would be number two and three of my favorite things!

The first is a relatively new publication

 2007 by the publisher of Southern Lady magazine

 Phyllis Hoffman.

This beautifully photographed book not only has elegant and easily replicated tablescapes, but recipes for those, who like me,  finds themselves making the same things over and over.

There are settings and recipes for every occasion

 all displayed in large colorful detail.

 What Fun!!

I also liked that there were napkin folding tutorials, and guides that included all of the different elements of tablescaping design. A visual "How To" use all of those beautiful things we love and have collected through the years!

Now this third favorite thing really got me going.

 My younger daughter, an avid EBay shopper found this vintage, 1960 publication of Tiffany Table Settings.

 Who knew this was all the rage in 1956!!

 I didn't, but then again I'm usually late to the party. LOL

 Apparently in 1956 Tiffany & Co. selected different ladies of society and corporations to sponsor or create a Table Setting Design using Tiffany china, silver and crystal

 to be displayed in their store.

 The New York Times in turn ran a weekly article devoted to this genre in their Sunday arts section, and featured tables created by the likes of Mrs. William Randolph Hearst.

Be still my heart!

These were just too good not to share!

I did say four of my favorite things didn't I?

 Well, the last is small in size

 but found a big place in my heart.

From my dear, patient Hubby. Thanks love...

I hope you can find one, if not both of these beautiful examples of Tablescaping design

 to add to your library for inspiration. I know I will be! 

 Join me and others who share in the joy of elegant design at

 Between Naps on the Porch Tablescape Thursday

click on the link on the sidebar.

As always - Thanks Susan!

Sadly - this is all I can show you

 due to copyright infringement laws.