Vintage Roses 2...A New Take

 

Sometimes I like to go back and revisit some of my old tablescapes and find ways to improve or update them. Sometimes I have new items to add to the layout, but sometimes I just see the picture and realize that I had too much blank space. Or too much of one color. You get the idea. But sometimes, I still LOVE the original, but want to see how I can make it more formal. Or in this case, more casual. You'll remember that I hosted a surprise 90th birthday brunch for my aunt. Here's the link in case you missed it, but I'm also posting a photo below. Same china, completely different vibe!

This vintage roses pattern is called "Royal Rose". It was the perfect start for this ultra-formal table-scape. Lots of gold and sparkle.

I recently hosted the first of my summer tea parties at work, and I wanted to see what I could do with the same set of china. I think it is just as beautiful!

The main difference with this tablescape is that I added in more organic elements and texture. Alternating woven and burlap placemats grounded things visually, while also adding in a depth of color. Something a little less "reflective". I also used burlap table runners. Finally, I swapped out the silverware for something with gold accents and not completely gold. A simple white linen napkin rounds things out.

Wood and wicker baskets held an interesting assortment of items which served as my centerpiece. My ever-useful wicker balls made an appearance, as did some bits of antique lace that I inherited from a dear friend. She collected them all over the Europe on her travels. She had already framed a couple of pieces on black velvet. I needed a couple more for a second centerpiece, so I took a few small black interesting frames that I had picked up at Dollar Tree and added gold Rub 'N Buff to the edges. I didn't have black velvet on hand, so I grabbed some black card stock instead. They look really good! And they are perfect for placing in my china cabinets or on shelves to add extra interest!  

I used the same silk roses I had purchased for the surprise birthday party, but cut some new growth from a rose bush outside the cafeteria to add more interest and variation in color.

We have a beautifully re-decorated private dining room in our cafeteria at Faulkner. I am able to reserve it when I have my teas. It's a lovely setting for lunch and has a beautiful view of the center of campus from the wall of windows.

Of course I served "Paris" tea blend by Harney and Sons. I always have a pot of Paris and then something else that reflects my scone selection. I made a batch of delicious lemon strawberry scones for this tea and then forgot to snap a picture!  

Each lady that attends brings something. I handle the tables, tea, and scones. I think you can see the scones at about 4:00 on the plate above. I was out of lemon curd, so I served them with strawberry jam.

I send out an email to the ladies on campus and then just ask them to RSVP so I can be sure to have enough seats. Some come every time (hello, library ladies!) and some come because they've never had tea! It's always a wonderful hour of fellowship.

As our campus grows, we have more and more new employees. This gives us an opportunity to get to know ladies in other departments. And since it is on campus, it is so easy to walk over, and then we have the entire hour to enjoy!

I hope you enjoyed seeing this Vintage Roses makeover! It's was so much fun to do!