Royal Crown Derby Floral Butterfly Plates

by Helen Kain | Apr 19, 2018 | Antiques, Green, Pink and Red, Purple, Spring Tablescapes, Summer Tablescapes

Hello, hello! Sorry for the relative silence over the past few days; I’ve been travelling for business and haven’t had great access to secure wi-fi. Today I want to share a set of Aesthetic Movement dessert plates I picked up a couple of years ago. Soft...

Update on “Come and Dine” at Highclere

by Helen Kain | Mar 16, 2018 | Antiques, Spring Tablescapes

I received a link to Lady Carnarvon’s blog yesterday, giving us an update on how the contest judging is shaping up. They have had some marvellous entries, going by the pictures, and everyone looks to have had a ton of fun putting their dinners together. I...

Our Video for “Come and Dine” at Highclere is here!

by Helen Kain | Feb 28, 2018 | Antiques, Spring Tablescapes, Winter Recipes, Winter Tablescapes

The video is here.  Please enjoy, and let me know what you think. Making the video was a fascinating process. I’m always intrigued with how things work and am often more captivated by the behind-the-scenes operation than the front-stage production....

“Come and Dine” at Highclere Castle – The Dinner!

by Helen Kain | Feb 25, 2018 | Antiques, Ballgown, Cobalt, White, Winter Tablescapes

First of all, thanks everyone for your interest in the event! Your comments were so heartening; I felt like you were right there with me from preparation through to clean up.   Update: Here is the video of the event We had a fabulous time, and judging from the...

Highclere Castle Dinner Preparations Update #2

by Helen Kain | Feb 23, 2018 | Antiques, Blue, Cobalt, Winter Tablescapes

I’m off to give a presentation this afternoon (my other life…), but I thought you might like to know how things are shaping up for the Great Dinner tomorrow. We have set out the plates, bowls and glassware in the order in which it will be needed tomorrow,...

Hand Painted Cabinet Plates and Pink Moser Glass

by Helen Kain | Jan 29, 2018 | Antiques, Pink and Red, Spring Tablescapes, Valentine's Day, Winter Tablescapes

Deep, clear pink is a gorgeous colour; no wonder it’s so popular around Valentine’s Day.  A perfect counterpoint to the gritty grey winter landscape, the rich rosy tones lift our spirits and beguile our senses. This table setting began with a trip to...