Winter Whites Heat Up the Table

Borrowing inspiration from the snow-tipped hills, white tableware heats up the dining room with texture and a touch of gold. Just like snowflakes, nothing matches in this tablescape, yet the elements somehow bind together.



While pristine white can be formal, it seems to work best in everyday settings. A whimsical garden gate tells your guests to expect the unexpected, and to have fun.

White pottery is crisp and peaceful--and it allows the food to be the star.

Mixed patterns in the dishes, glassware, and cutlery are united by white and gold. Crystal echos the ice just outside my door, but it takes on depth and dimension as candlelight casts a cozy glow, bouncing colors across the table.

Instead of a traditional centerpiece, a tureen serves as the focal point. Grocery store flowers can be pricey, but a single bunch of mums or daisies can be put to good use. Pottery creamers are perfect for mini-bouquets.
Clear votives add a bit of romance and make everything sparkle.

Winter White Slideshow

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

For tablescaping inspiration, and to view hundreds of tabletop ideas, visit Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for her weekly event, Tablescape Thursday.

Tablescaping Notes

China: Gibson (Big Lots) and Baroque (American Atelier)

Chargers: Horchow

Tureen: Baroque (Replacements, Ltd)

Ecru Napkins: April Cornell

Bee Box: Horchow

Flatware: International Sterling "Wild Rose" mixed with stainless (Barbed Wire and Twig)

votives: Big Lots

White heart placecard holders: Amazon.com

Pitchers and crystal: wedding presents, garage sales, antique malls