NYE Events 2010.

NYE was full of memorable and funny moments. We rang in the New Year with friends and family packing the night with some kiddo time and then a party for  the big kids :) Before we went out to celebrate I put together a special tea party for my two kids and my niece and nephew. It was a super simple one, but they had a ball.

We spent some time after playing Wii games and then it was off to bed at Grandma's...our little one was not to happy about this!

I did get to squeeze in some special time with my Hubby and friends, our out door time uptown was short lived considering it was 12 degrees...still a wonderful time reflecting on a great year and giddy anticipation for the New one! Au Revior 2010...

P.S. This is NOT what my husband wore on NYE...this was after his Cross Fit competition on New Years day. He was Amazing! And I got to sport my leopard coat again....J'adore!

How to set a table.

 Since Thanksgiving is right around the corner, I thought it would be helpful to show some ideas for table scape and the proper place settings.

1: Layer, start with a great place mat and build from there. Dishes don't have to match they just need to go together!

2: Use different textures ie: stone and metal, Crystal and glass.

3: Use things that are unexpected and not the usual... like the cowhides they add a softness and a rustic feel.
4: Mix in different chairs

5: Try to make your holiday table scape be useful for the whole season...with a few switches this modern table can go from fall to Christmas by just adding more sparkle and punches of red! This saves tons of time and money!

Bold pieces like a white owl planter become a striking center piece and feathered place mats and cowhide   throws on benches lend the earthy rustic contrast to a set of beautiful china.

A more traditional table scape includes pears and pumpkin in rich golds, oranges and rusts that glimmer and glow. Bright plates with playful napkins add whimsy.

These ideas both incorporated decor from around the house, saving you time and making it more personal.

 Now to the technical part...how many times have you gotten to the place settings and thought does the knife point out? Glass on the right or left? These simple images will insure a perfect set up!

The more casual setting:

The more formal setting:

Good luck with you dinner and I hope everything turns out perfect, your floors stay clean and everyone minds their manners :) but in the event that it doesn't be grateful for the people you are with and the moments we have. Nobody ever says "Thank you Lord, for my clean floors" it's our family and friends we are most grateful for.

Cheers,
Amanda