TABLETOP TUESDAY - pass me a peony

it's pouring outside....instead of allowing it to put a damper on my day, i will think about forthcoming flowers. and since blooms are on my mind, take a look at this gorgeous tableware from minnesotan julia knight. 

aptly called "the peony collection," the line is reminiscent of its lovely namesake. the curvature in each dish echoes the lines of a peony's petals. interestingly, each is handcrafted by hand-painting pearlized enamel onto sand-casted aluminum that makes each piece unique. available in shades of mojito, pomegranate, mango + buttercream, you'll be salivating before you even begin party preparations.

and while the peony is known as the "flower of riches and honour" in china, you can own your blooms for a relative bargain. pieces start at $12.50 + will pretty up your table...just in time for spring.

DIY WEDDING DÉCOR 

for my DIY wedding in mendocino, california, i wanted to use a variety of serving ware instead of run-of-the-mill rental china. so....i purchased some new (galvanized steel trays from jamali), used some old (heirloom silver trays) + borrowed a few (fiestaware platters) serving pieces. having such a varied assortment, added fun flair to our reception of heavy hor d'oeuvres + more - a locavore's dream. you could do the same + start with a few of these beauties for your "big day"...post-nuptials, you'll have something meaningful to display in your kitchen.

(photo credit: julia knight)