Welcome to the 174th Tablescape Thursday!
Greetings! Hope you’ve been having a wonderful day! My day has been a little wacky. I had an eye exam this morning and I forgot when you go for an eye exam, they dilate your eyes. So, if these pics look a little blurry, you’ll know why. lol It was definitely a challenge taking photos and sorting them with partially dilated eyes.
I love the “Colonial Williamsburg style” fruit trees. The tree I created this year is a bit different from those I’ve created in years past.
I took the leaf out of the table so this tablescape is a bit cozy.
I started out with red candles but changed to gold ones midway through the picture taking process. So you’ll see both red and gold candles in this table setting as you scroll through this post.
In years past, I created this fruit centerpiece with red apples, as seen in this picture from last year. I always fill in around the fruit with holly from a large holly bush/tree in my front yard. The holly tree had almost no berries last year, so I used pyracantha berries along with magnolia leaves around the base of the tree. Christmas tablescape from last year can be viewed in this post: Christmas Table Setting with Lenox, Holiday and a Colonial Williamsburg Apple Tree Centerpiece
This year I used lemons and limes instead of red apples. The limes are so big, they almost look like green apples, don’t they? The dining room is filled with the wonderful scent of oranges, cloves and lemons. Wish you were here to enjoy it with me.
If you would like to make a Colonial Williamsburg style fruit tree some year for Christmas, you’ll find the tutorial: Colonial Williamsburg Apple Tree Centerpiece Tutorial.
The holly bush (which is more like a tree since it’s so big) had lots of berries this year. So, instead of using pyracantha berries atop the magnolia leaf base, I added a few clove-studded oranges, instead.
I couldn’t capture any great pics of the china due to the glare of the chandelier (and my wonky eyes) so I pulled this picture from a previous post. Instead of using the matching salad plates shown below,
I decided to use these accent plates in the same “Winter Greetings” pattern, instead. Years ago I purchased 16 in this style (along with 12 in another Winter Greetings style) to use on a buffet table for Christmas parties. They also make great dessert plates, too. This year, I’m using them as our salad plate for Christmas dinner.
Can you name all the cute birdies? Starting on the top left and going across, they are: House Finch, Cedar Waxwing, Eastern Bluebird and a Downy Woodpecker.
Chickadee, Goldfinch, Nuthatch and a Cardinal.
Over the years, I’ve gradually collected Waterford’s, 12 Days of Christmas champagne flutes. This is the first year I finally have six, enough to set a full table. Isn’t it fun to have a collection you add to each year. I think that may be more fun than just buying it all at once. Is there anything you’re collecting a few at the time each year?
For napkins, I layered gold sheaths trimmed in red and green over paisley napkins. Green beaded napkin rings adds a touch of glamour to the setting.
I hope you have the most wonderful Christmas ever this year. Merry Christmas to you, sweet friends!
Resources:
Chargers: Horchow or Neiman Marcus, 4 years ago
Dinner Plates: Lenox, Winter Greetings, 3-4 years ago
Salad Plates: Lenox Accent Plates in the Winter Greetings pattern, 3-4 years ago
Stemware: All Waterford: Iced Tea is Araglin, Ruby Hock Goblet is Lismore and Champagne flutes are designed in a variety of Waterford patterns
Flatware: Towle, King Richard
Napkins: Marshalls or HomesGoods, 2 years ago
Napkin Sheaths: Pier 1, 1-2 years ago
Napkin Rings: Old Time Pottery (only $1 each)
Centerpiece was created on a wood, cone-shaped form, received as a Christmas gift from a friend many years ago. You can see the form and view a tutorial for making the centerpiece in this post: Colonial Williamsburg Apple Tree Tutorial
Brass candlesticks are by Baldwin.
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Welcome! Thanks for coming to the party!
Hi Susan
Wishing you all the best this Christmas!
Winter Greetings is a favorite of mine.
Susan,
I was looking forward to your dining room post, and not disappointed. The sweet winter birds plates are classic, and contemporary, and enviable. Thank you for hosting, and bringing new joys to my life this year. Merry Christmas, and thanks for the inspiration and organization. You're changing the world, one table at a time! ~CJ
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!
You know I love your Williamsburg centerpiece. I know that the apples are very traditional…but I do believe that I like the citrus fruits even better.
LOVE the fruit centerpiece! The pineapple and clove studded oranges are fantastic.
Kelly
Whan I saw the words "Colonial Williamsburg", I had to look right away at the post!!! I have longed to visit Williamsburg, and I even bought a book on it a couple of years ago to prepare myself for the eventual trip there. We have yet to make that trek, but when we do, I'll be more than ready!!! Your table captures the essence of the area as I know it from books and magazines, and the centerpiece is just the detail to take it all the way. Thank you for sharing this beautiful table, for sharing your time and talent over the past year, and for sharing the gift of friendship with so many of us who count on Tablescape Thursdays to lift our spirits. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Hi lovely lady.
Your Tablescape is Gorgeous for the Christmas Holidays. I love the dishes you use for this table.. You did a Beautiful job putting this together.
Thanks so much for having your linky party.
I hope you and your family have a wonderful Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
XXOO Diane
Susan, your tablescape is very beautiful! I love the different bird plates. Thank you for hosting this each week. May you have a blessed Christmas! Pamela
I am glad you used your Winter Greetings china, Susan. I hacve a set of 8 and then I saw a complete setting for 12 on Ebay with all the extra platters and serving pieces plus 12 accent plates so I got up at 5:30 AM (auction ending) to outbid everyone and I won. I am so glad that you named the birds on the accent plates cause I could not name them all. I got 99 pieces for $635, all in excellent condition and I think it is a good buy. Your centerpiece is very pretty. Merry Christmas to you all!…Christine
Oooh, when I saw the name of the post on my reading list I couldn't get here fast enough! It's so beautiful,
the colors and patterns and the
centerpiece tree. I have been in love with Williamsburg ever since I was there years ago.
Gorgeous post!
Merry Christmas,
Susan
BEAUTIFUL, Susan. So "Williamsburgy". Love that centerpiece.
Those accent plates are beautiful, Susan! I had to scroll up and down a few times because they do have similarities to the design in the main set. Great idea to use them for a buffet table setting.
Susan your home is just drop dead beautiful! Every element is perfection accented by your creative tablescape – your guests will love it.
Hello Susan,
You definitely have a flair! I have seen this before and you've done a marvelous job – love the dishes – I appreciate you hosting and wish you a very Merry Christmas,
Kathy
Thanks for hosting week after week, Susan! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
So beautiful! I love the way the napkins/sheaths match the centerpiece!
I'm sharing my new Christmas china this time.
Merry Christmas!
Katherine
What a beautiful setting. Your stemware is lovely and the layered napkins add such beauty to your china and centerpiece. Merry Christmas and thank you for hosting!
HI Susan! Merry Christmas first of all. I loved those napkins, love the look of them and loved the gold candles. I've switched candles among a few other things during the photo taking. That's funny to hear you say that you did it. You get different ideas as you go along…I did my tablescape this week, didn't like it…switched the tablecloth and wow, loved it! Anyhow…have a lovely weekend with friends and family.
Blessings,
Debbie
I love the winter bird plates!
Thank you for hosting!
Happy Holidays!
Kerry at HouseTalkN
Bonjour Susan,
Je suis éblouie par votre pièce centrale de table… Elle est majestueuse…
Je ne sais si vous aviez les yeux dilatés, mais vos photos sont très réussies.
Je vous souhaite une très douce journée de noël et tous mes voeux pour 2012.
Gros bisous
Susan! We were on the same page this week! :)Beautiful as always~Have a very Merry Christmas and thank you for hosting!
What a beautiful table. I have always loved the Williamsburg style decorating. Your Venetian mirror is gorgeous. Have a very Merry Christmas and thanks for hosting.
Sherry
Bad eyes, or not, your table is beautiful.
I have often eyed the Waterford champagne Christmas flutes. However, after years of gifting the Swarovski Snowflakes, I decided to "gift" myself with a collection as well. I am in the process of buying one for each year since my husband passed away (2002). He loved decorating the tree, so this little sparkle is a bit of him on my tree.
Hope you have a wonderful Christmas.
Love the bird dishes they are beautiful! Thanks for hosting again this week, Laura
Just lovely…I wish I was a guest. Merry Christmas.
Another beautiful table Susan even with all your eye problems. You could be blind and your tables would be gorgeous. You are just gifted. Thankyou for hosting again. I love to join in.
With Christmas Greetings to you,
Nann
Hi Susan!
Your centerpiece turned out perfect! I love the combination you put together. Those are wonderful plates with the birds. Looks like you are all set for a beautiful holiday meal.
Thanks for hosting- once again!
You have yourself a very
Merry Christmas! Hugs from up north!
Liz
Susan, your table is just lovely, both elegant and inviting. Once again we share a theme, I did faux oranges, lemons and limes on my mantle this year in a very Williamsburg arrangement with candles and magnolia leaves. I think tomorrow I will pick up some real fruit to add to my mantle to capture the wonderful scents that you describe. I wish you a very special Christmas with many blessings for the New Year. Your blog is a gift to so many, thank you. MM
A very Merry Christmas to you too Susan and Mr. Max.
Thank you for all the wonderful tablescapes and house tours this year.
Your Christmas table is beautiful, I love your bird china.
Have fun with your family and friends.
Meg
Such a beautiful,festive table! Love the plates.
Susan, I'd love to dine at this table. The centerpiece is beautiful and I'm sure it has a wonderful fragrance. Love the way you layered the napkins, and the plates are darling. Merry, merry! ~ Sarah
Susan, what a stunning table!! You always have such gorgeous settings! Thanks for being such a gracious hostess each week! Merry Christmas to you!!
Hi Susan, wishing a very lovely Christmas holiday for you and your family, and a happy New Year!
Thanks for your beautiful blog again this year..
Kit
Your dining room is gorgeous! I love the centerpiece with lemons and limes this year. I have one of those forms, but haven't used it this year. I did see darling miniature pineapples at the store that would be perfect for the top! Thanks for hosting us, and Merry Christmas!
Susan,
I love the natural fruit centerpiece on your lovely Christmas tablescape! Those napkins are so elegant with the sheer fabric and the paisley! Thank you for hosting this weekly meme…and…Have a Merry Christmas!
Fondly,
Pat
P.S. I do hope Max has something special under the tree…I so, enjoy seeing him in your posts!
Breathtakingly BEAUTIFUL, Susan! It always amazes me how many different ways you can do up a table, using many of the same basic pieces. You are truly an inspiration!
Thanks for a year's worth of wonderful ideas!
Merry Christmas!
Mega Hugs,
Rett
Susan, your table is beautiful. I love the way you changed the colors in your centerpiece this year. The clove studded oranges look so beautiful with it. Best wishes for a blessed Christmas and New Year!
Wishing your family a very Merry Christmas from ours. Thank you sharing your fabulous tablescape. Everything is just gorgeous. I would love for you to link this inspirational post at our What's It Wednesday linky party.
Paula
Merry Christmas and thanks for hosting!
…wow!
what a collection!
and of many diverse tablescapes!
this is my 1st time visiting,
this may take me awhile!
thanks for hosting
xo, Rosemary
Beautiful! I love the look of the plates on the bare table, but can you actually eat a meal on it like that? I've always been afraid to not use my table pads and tablecloth.
Hi Maggie, This table is pretty old and already had a good many scratches before I bought it. That's one nice thing about it, don't have to worry about damaging it. lol
Fantastic setting and photos as usual! How I would love to take a peek at your butler's pantry/china cabinet, whatever you have to hold all that amazing china and glassware!
The centerpiece is beautiful! I love the clove studded citrus fruit. They always smell so amazing.
Oh, Susan! What a gorgeous table! I love your Williamsburg centerpiece – the fruit looks so pretty all towered up! Your dishes are beautiful and I love it that you mixed the patterns. Love those little bird dishes!
I'm getting to party with you today. Susan, I want to wish you and your family a wonderful Merry Christmas!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia 😉
What a fabulous table! Enjoy the holidays, Kellie xx
Favoloso!!
Buon Natale!!
Baci
SAabry!!
Beautiful photos, Susan. My son and I are spending a few weeks in Roswell after the holidays … Harry's is always on my list of must-visit places.
Joyeux Noël
I love the change in your centerpiece. The clove studded oranges, granny smith apples and lemons are really pretty with your red walls. The china is lovely and perfect for the Williamsburg look.
You always do an outstanding table-this is one of my favorites!
Wishing you the Merriest of Christmases!
Mary
From Virginia
Susan, as usual, I was NOT disappointed at your dining room and tablescape, but then, I am a frequent visitor to your home. I find that when I've had a horrific day, I can visit your porch, dining room, or one of your two family rooms..or the guest bedroom…and in a few minutes I find myself relaxed and at peace. We love some of the same colors and prints, so I feel right at home in your beautiful home…(and of course Mr. Max is always a gracious host)…may you and yours have a blessed Christmas and may many blessings come your way in the New Year…
Awww, thanks, Janice. That makes my day to hear that. 🙂 You are so kind! Merry Christmas to you! 2012 is going to be a great year!
Hi Susan
Your Christmas tablescape is outstanding! I have also been collecting Waterford crystal over the years. It broke my heart when the Waterford factory closed in Ireland and the glass cutting operations were moved to Poland. At least I ahd a chance to visit it once.
I don't often get a chance to join in this wonderful blog event but I had the opportunity to tour the Colorado Governor's magnificent residence which was all decorated for Christmas and thought it would be nice to share it here.
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!
I find it interesting you do not use a tablecloth. I see citrus pomanders – made those on my What I Made Wednesday last week!!!
Love everything about Colonial Williamsburg style.
What wonderful Christmas gift to have discovered your beautiful web-site! I love the subject matter and the photos are breathtaking.
Thank you!
Merry Christmas.
Susan, I have so enjoyed each week visiting your blog and seeing what you have created, or where you will take me. I have never failed to be inspired or thrilled. Your table this week is right up my alley, I love our feathered friends and can just imagine the beauty of this china in your beautiful dining room. I wish you a blessed Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
Susan,
That centerpiece is fabulous with that beautiful holly from your yard. I had a chance to buy about 15 pairs of those Waterford champagne flutes for about $150 total for all at an auction that I go to each week! I could kick myself for not getting them.
Hi Susan…
Everything, EVERYTHING looks exqusite. Fabulous job.
A blessed and Merry Christmas to you! Susan
Everything looks gorgeous as usual, Susan. Stopping by to wish you a very Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Susan! I'm linking up my friend, Ruby's red dining room, which reminds me remarkably of yours! Hope you enjoy the holidays. Looking forward to a new year in 2012!
Susan,
Loved the name of your blog so had to visit. Glad I did! Our guests will be feasting off paper plates on Christmas Eve, but I will be remembering your beautiful table. Your home is lovely and gives me inspiration to finish unpacking all the boxes in our home (after 6 years…).
I confess that, when I came to the end of this article, my sense of humor kicked in and I was hoping to see a shot of how the table would look after everyone pushed away from it. Please forgive me? 🙂
Thanks for the treat! Merry Christmas!
MaineCook
MaineCook…I'll try to remember to take a picture of that after dinner tomorrow. 😉 Those are the best pics…the aftermath.
Merry Christmas, Susan!
Good health and blessings in the new year!
Kathleen
I have one of those Williamsburg forms but I haven't used it in years.I love the way it looks with the citrus, I'll have to remember to pull it out next year.
Happy New Year!
Karee
Wow! What a beautiful table. You are very gifted in your designs. I really want to try a Williamsburg tablescape sometime now that I've seen your lovely table.
Marsha
What about the beautiful mirror!!! You never mentioned where you got that beauty! By the way, I use to have to go down to Williamsburg to decorate the whole town. Every arrangement has purpose and meaning to how the fruit is placed.
Kimberly, I would love to know more about all that. Could you send an email with some pictures explaining a few of the arrangements. You are welcome to use pictures from this post if you like: https://betweennapsontheporch.net/colonial-williamsburg-at-christmastime/ Maybe you could pick a few pics from that post and explain about those arrangements. Then I could create a blog post and post about it, giving you credit of course! 🙂
The mirror came from a big warehouse sale of a store that used to be in business here. I’ve had it for at least 15 years, probably longer.
My husband and I are trying to sell those apple tree forms. Would you mind posting our information here in the event anyone is interested? We have 25 for sale and they are actually pretty difficult to make. Thank you for your consideration.
April, if you want to leave you email or website info in a comment here, feel free to do that.
Hi All!
I ran across this idea of Susan’s on Pinterest and fell in love. We tried to order one from Williamsburg but could not seem to complete the process on the website. So my husband and I began making some. They are so fragrant and beautiful. We are working on setting up our Etsy shop. In the meantime, please email me at [email protected] if you would like to purchase one. Thank you so much, Susan!
Merry Christmas, so fortunate to stumble upon your website! What color is this dining room? We are moving into a colonial revival home built in 1896 – would love to have this color!
So glad to see your Baldwin Brass candlesticks – I just love them and they look so nice with Lenox Holiday!
Your charger plates are lovely – would you tell us a bit about them?
Thank you!
Thanks so much, Sandra! I found the chargers online at Horchow back in 2008. They aren’t hallmarked and the boxes they came in were very plain which I thought was odd. I’m guessing they were designed for Neiman Marcus/Horchow specifically since they had no branding. NM and Horchow both have a lot of really pretty chargers online.
Wow, Susan, that was fast! I’ll be sure to look at that source for chargers. I’ve never used them before – the $1 ones are my first!
I make the apple tree every year. Got an apple tree cone from the Williamsburg Pottery Factory long time ago. When living in MD went to CW twice a year always a week or two before Christmas.