It's probably no secret at all to you that I have a small addiction to table ware. You know, dishes, serving pieces, flatware, table linens. (well, you've seen my Entertaining Closet) They all inspire me. I mean, charming tableware can make even the most ordinary meal special. I even like just looking at it in the cupboard.
I am inspired by the artistry of flatware as well. It's really got personality, and I think sometimes we forget about it as an important detail to our table. It can change the look and feel of a table setting, like shoes can make your outfit.This set has ebony handles with pewter-like details. I love the antique look and feel of it.
Talk about inspiring. This flatware is just so detailed and sweet. Miniature works of art. I feel special using it. Every. Single. Day.
OK, how fun is this set below? If you're not inspired to throw a barbecue and put on your cowgirl boots with a fabulous apron by now, you simply cannot be inspired.
You know, I've had these dishes with the ant trail crossing the plate for about 15 years, and I still love it to pieces. I even have marshmallow roasters that match.
Barbara Bush supposedly bought this set for some big Texas style barbecue back when George Sr. was in office. Really.
I found the interchangeable sign about five years ago on clearance at Pottery Barn. Of course, the Sewing Queen of northern Nevada made my napkins. Perfect.
*sigh* Pretty tableware. It charming, useful, and it doesn't have to be expensive. More than half of mine is thrifted. It's part of being inspired to live a really beautiful life.
I have the same love of dishes! I justify my four partial sets because they all mix and match with shades of blue and white.
Functional and beautiful--hard to say no.
Posted by: Meredith from Merchant Ships | July 27, 2007 at 07:32 AM
Tracey, the BBQ set is so cute!! I love both sets of flatware.
Have a great Friday!!!
Posted by: Mecky | July 27, 2007 at 07:40 AM
Tracey you are girl after my heart. I love it all !!!! Clarice
Posted by: clarice | July 27, 2007 at 08:17 AM
What an awesome post... it makes me want to get out and start searching for just the right pieces.... right now!! :)
Posted by: Dawn | July 27, 2007 at 08:45 AM
I love dishes, too. But storage is always a problem, sigh. The ant dishes are adorable.
Posted by: Lorrie | July 27, 2007 at 09:20 AM
Ah, so then you understand why I went to a sale and bought FOUR sets of china... Ten bucks a box!!! I couldn't resist.. I'm selling some (keep repeating that to myself....I'm selling some... I'm selling some...) I have a pic of one set on my blog today... Have fun entertaining. I LOVE the ant napkins... How cute.
Posted by: Gayla | July 27, 2007 at 09:43 AM
Tracey, I love the photos of YOUR stuff better than the magazines!! You and your taste inspire me...xxoo, Dawn
Posted by: Dawn | July 27, 2007 at 09:50 AM
OH! that flatware is enough to make me SWOON! I must know more about it...
hugs, cheryl
Posted by: Cheryl Dack | July 27, 2007 at 11:10 AM
Tracy: You soooooo inspire me. I love how you display things. You have inspired me to attempt to learn the digital camera and I've even started my own blog. It's still in the "rough" stages, but THANK YOU for your inspiration to start one!! I wish we lived closer. . . i think we would probably be "best buds."
Blessings my friend.
Posted by: Sheryl from Michigan | July 27, 2007 at 11:44 AM
Those ant dishes are the cutest things ever! Love the way you paired them with red stuff..my fave color! If you run out of cupboard space and need to pass those along, let me know, would ya?? Have a great weekend! Cassie
Posted by: Mockingbird Hill | July 27, 2007 at 08:34 PM
We have some of the same dishes and flatware. I love it.
Rosemary
Posted by: Rosemary | July 28, 2007 at 05:16 PM