There’s just something about owls, isn’t there? Wise, a bit mysterious, and oh-so-stylish when adorning a pasta bowl.
This table was pure autumn whimsy—a little farmhouse, a little forest fantasy, and a whole lot of golden sunflowers to top it off.
Let’s start with the star of the show: the four Williams-Sonoma Owl pasta bowls, part of a collection introduced in 2021, and discontinued fairly quickly (boo). Each one is a miniature work of art, featuring intricately patterned owls that look as though they flew straight out of a storybook.
From the wide-eyed barn owl to the fanciful duo of green-feathered friends, they’re equal parts charming and elegant.
I love how the design combines earthy tones with pops of russet, amber, and sage; it is the essence of fall.
Underneath, I layered large Vietri leaf-edged plates and wooden chargers. The plaid tablecloth, in rust, gold, and mossy green, sets the perfect rustic tone—classic farmhouse meets woodland retreat.
Julia Amber-stem Depression glass goblets by Tiffin Franciscan got another outing. Their warm honey hue ties in beautifully with the tablecloth, and the etched detail adds just a touch of vintage glamour (always welcome). Their quiet sparkle feels just right for a cozy fall gathering, whether you’re serving apple cider or something a little stronger.
The soft, leafy green napkins sport copper-toned floral napkin rings acquired from an April Cornell attic sale. At the time of purchase, I wondered if they’d ever get used, but it’s astonishing how frequently they prove to be the perfect finishing touch.
And oh, the sunflowers! I gathered several bunches of these hairy-stemmed golden beauties—casual, cheerful, and undeniably autumnal. Clustered in amber glass tumblers and a few rustic vases, they added just the right amount of height and drama to the center of the table. Sunflowers have to be the world’s most cheerful flowers.
Lastly, a couple of ceramic owl salt and pepper shakers swooped in to complete the scene. Because really, what’s an owl table without a few extra feathered friends?
This tablescape is relaxed and cozy, but still polished enough for a fall dinner party—or even Thanksgiving, if you’re looking for a change from the traditional turkey motif.
Next time you’re feeling a little woodland-inspired, gather your owls, pull out your plaids, and let the table tell a story.
Enjoy the last glorious weekend of September, all!
















My tablescape in my formal dining room for October is also owls. Just a few S&P’s, napkins, and napkin holders. No plates. Yet. I…must…not…look…at…your…plates…I even took a little peek on Ebay for the William Sonoma collection, than closed the browser window immediately. I need another themed collection like a wack on the head. I need to satisfy my obsession by looking at your beautiful collection only!!!
I hear you, Elena! I need another themed set like a hole in the head, also. But surely…it can’t hurt to look? (Oh yes it can!)
Beautiful Helen. I remember this collection from WS and you are right in that it didn’t last long. I think I managed a table runner and some napkins but none of the plates were available. You have set them to perfection here with the plaid tablecloth and those happy sunflowers. Love the flatware and the charger plates too. So pretty, all of it!
Thanks, Kim. I really liked the pasta bowls, and gave them to my middle daughter, who loves owls. I kept the napkins, though, and thought i might set a different table with those. There are so many directions to go with all those colours.
Hope you are well!