a vintage inspired mardi gras table

This year Lent starts on Valentine’s day,

so for those of us who follow this observance,

we might have a double celebration on Mardi Gras….

and that may mean indulging in  

Valentine’s day chocolates a day early!!

In any event,

my inspiration this year was for an

old New Orleans- inspired Mardi Gras tablescape.

When I think of New Orleans,

fabulous architecture and antiques come to mind.

I wanted a little bit of that history on my table,

so I chose a more sophisticated approach to my table décor.

Of course, we must have purple, gold and green,

the obvious colors of Mardi Gras,

but I wanted to use them in a more toned down manner.  

For starters, we need pretty masks and party beads,

so I kept these accessories limited to gold tones.

I brought out some of my favorite

purple and white transferware

and

beautiful amethyst glass stemware.

A hint of green is brought in with a eucalyptus branch runner

down the center of the table which softens the look of the bold brass candlesticks.

I love the Spanish moss tucked around the roses and candles. 

It adds to the whole spooky vibe that

is sooo New Orleans.

White roses were the obvious choice

to bring in some of that elegant old-world beauty of 

New Orleans.

Simple gold flatware keeps the table a little modern and has great juxtaposition 

with the textured linen tablecloth that reminds me of 

old tattered 

anitque chairs.

I love this new white and gold vase…

it’s so versatile for any type of flower and tablescape.

Along the bank of cabinets, behind the table,

the rest of my brass candlesticks are

adorned with more gold beads. 

And when the lights go down…

The magic starts to happen!

Flickering candlelight

is the best ingredient 

for any dinner party!

ciao! fabiana

And it all came together like this:

Purple Transferware Plates

Large White Dinner Plates

white napkins, vintage

White & Gold Vase

White Roses, Trader Joe’s

Amethyst Wine Glasses 

Gold Flatware

Brass Candlesticks

Linen Tablecloth

Bistro Chairs from Serena & Lily

an Easter table with a twist

Inspiration is one of my favorite words.

I think I do use it a lot here on the blog,

but it’s a big part of my life.

I love finding inspiration in the littlest of things…

I usually get inspired by something, and then something else, so sometimes I end up with an quirky combo of ideas. There are times when I really have to reel it in! 

For this tablescape, I had several points of inspiration... Easter, vibrant yellow flowers contrasting with classic blue and white china, and (here comes the quirky part) some of my favorite vintage souvenir plates. 

And to finish off the look, I also wanted to throw in a few blue and white odds and ends that were adorable thrift store finds, like these mismatched creamers and sugar bowls. I thought they'd be really cute down the center of the table filled with yellow flowers.

Of course, this time of year, Trader Joe's has little daffodil bunches for I think about $1.49! 

They're so perfect for spring and and for me are an instant mood booster! 

I love collecting souvenir plates of some of my favorite places, and La Jolla is definitely near the top of my list!

Seattle is another one of my favorite destinations.

Chicago, yes!

This plate is a little different than most of

the ones I have and it features

 the Brulatour Courtyard in New Orleans,

from a series of plates called

“Scenes of Old New Orleans”.

I’ve never been to New Orleans.

but it’s on my wish list!

This New York plate is a little different too,

since it’s not blue and white transferware,

but I still fell in love with it!

I’m really looking forward to Easter!

We’ll have the family over here for brunch

and then host a fun egg hunt for the little ones.

What are your plans?

ciao! fabiana

new orleans, charleston and parisian style

There is a common thread between New Orleans, Charleston and Parisian style decor. Each city brings a sense of history and drama. Interiors that use pieces that are passed down through generations, pieces that are acquired from flea markets, or misfits that are somehow integrated into the scheme of things. 

And with all these pieces there are stories to tell. Some of my favorite rooms have visibly worn pieces that bring character to a room and are paired with more modern furnishings and accessories.

ciao! fabiana

mardi gras party

My friend Alison had a spectacular

Mardi Gras party recently

to celebrate a milestone birthday.

Here are a few fun photos from that night...

Birthday girl Alison is in the center

 

These boys also play at Disneyland in New Orleans Square

The tables and the food were spectacular, and
the chef was flown in from New Orleans.

me and Suzy Q

ciao! fabiana