We all have to dress and we all have to eat. They might as well be attractive and enjoyable, don’t you think?
Oyster Plate with Fern and Camilla Champagne Flutes by William Yeoward
We approach tableware in much the same way as we view our wardrobes. We have business attire, casual wear (which runs the gamut from sweats to casual chic) and then we have things for special occasions. Some items cross over, like dressy jeans, cashmere sweaters and the little black dress. Others belong firmly in one category, like a ballgown; not called on frequently, but when it is, it had better be spectacular.
A great set of white china, clear glassware, high quality stainless cutlery and good white linens are the foundation of any tableware wardrobe. These are your “go to” items. If you’re working with limited space or are on a budget, you need go no further. This look, which we call Simply Done, is infinitely adaptable, and one of our regular features will be demonstrating how this look can be dressed up and down, and varied with inexpensive, readily procurable items to complement your table.
Casual Chic is the middle ground. Whether you’re serving chili by the fire for a group of friends, or having the family over for dinner by the pool, your tableware should reflect your unique style. Introduce some colour in the linens, glassware or the china. Include bakelite, bone or olivewood handled cutlery. Mix and match. Change it up.
Pulling out all the stops? Time to call on that Ballgown. Here’s where the silverware you inherited and that china and crystal you got for your bridal registry gets an airing. Nothing makes Helen smile more than planning a dinner party featuring formal china and crystal, especially the items from the Gilded Age. We know, it’s not for everyone. Some people are appalled at the mere thought, so if it doesn’t appeal to you, don’t go there! But lots of people like living vicariously, even if they can’t imagine themselves using such items. So come visit and sigh with relief that you have avoided all that hand washing.
The main thing is to enjoy what you have. As Julia Child said “Never apologize, never explain.” People can get so intimidated by the thought of entertaining, and completely lose sight of the fact that it’s supposed to be fun. That is such a shame. Most of us are so delighted to be invited into someone’s home for a thoughtfully prepared meal they the last thing we’re thinking about is criticizing. Try convincing the nervous host or hostess, though. Well, it’s time to change that. And that’s what Entertablement is all about. The enjoyment of tableware and what it’s used for – eating, entertaining, and living. Welcome!
