Green sprigs of holly on a creamy ironstone base, Winter’s Wonder Holly & Tree by Pier 1 is a wonderful holiday pattern. It’s one of the few patterns for which I’ve bought most of the pieces – dinner plates, pasta bowls and mugs. They’ve formed the backbone of our everyday tableware since early November. I used the dinner plates for the Winter Forest table, as they also go perfectly with the Home & Gardens salad plates set.

After spending an afternoon with daughter Kirsten and my close friend Mary Lou making Cranberry Chutney and Sausage Stuffing with Celery, Cranberries and Apple in preparation for Christmas, most of the rest of family were joining us for dinner. I wanted a simple setting with easy cleanup. I had made the Pork Ragu  the day before, so all I had to do was cook some Pappardelle and we were all set.

I particularly like the pasta bowls in this set. They’re wide, deep and sturdy. And they stack really well in the dishwasher.

Carrying on with the “keep it simple, silly” principle, I used tartan linens, plain, clear wine glasses and some sturdy green water glasses all from season past from Pottery Barn. The centrepiece comprised some white pillar candles edged with fresh cedar and tied with raffia on a tree slice pedestal. Quick and easy.

The little sack shaped open salts are a new addition. I found them on Etsy a while ago and got five for a princely $10. 

The stuffing in bags for the freezer, the chutney in jars for the fridge, and the kitchen cleaned up. Light the candles and enjoy a relaxing meal with the family.

I’m sharing this post with Between Naps on the Porch.