BLOG - October 1, 2010 - October 31, 2010

I go nuts for beautiful and unexpected table settings.  I love mixing different linens with fun placemats and unusual glassware.  In fact it was this obsession that led me to open my store in 2007.  I couldn't get enough -- old, new, cheap or pricey. You name it, i love table top.....Over the years I have amassed a collection of various plates and glasses, but nothing compares to what my mother has stockpiled up in her apartment.   Recently a close friend of mine was getting married, so I offered to throw a small dinner for her up at my mother's apartment.  It might sound like a thoughtful gesture, but really I had completely selfish motives. I had been dying to get into my mom's closets to put together a pretty table setting and entertain in a way that i never usually get to do, but I just hadn't had the right occasion.  A lot of what my mother has tends to be more traditional and formal than what I typically gravitate to, which made it more challenging than I expected.  After a lot of playing around, I decided on her mirrored placemats that I had given her from my store. I had had them custom made when I first opened. They're genius, but incredibly heavy, so they weren't the greatest seller. But I still love them -- they are totally simple, work with everything and are easy to clean, just a bit of windex! It kills me spending money to dry clean placemats, so these are a welcome change. I had been eyeing my step-father's horse racing trophies for years. They're lovely gold plates, and I knew there was a use for them, so they became the chargers.... I'm still not sure how well they handle heat, but they look great and gold is always kind of spicy and unexpected on a table!  I then used my mother's very traditional English china and paired it with beautiful vintage water glasses and simple flowers to match.  I love that all the pieces relate but the table isn't at all matchy.  I never knew that I could really get into all this traditional table top, but I loved it!  Check back soon for pics from an upcoming dinner party in my apartment...

Stacey Leuliette, an old friend of mine from Michigan, came to visit us at the New York Gift Show. Stacey has a gorgeous store in Birmingham, Michigan and I was able to stop in for a visit during a recent trip. Her store is absolutely gorgeous and it was a wonderful to see our Carolina George Silk Tie Pillows in her Fall window.

Stacey Leuliette Gracious Living

Window with Carolina George Silk Tie Pillows

Stacey has created a store that feels like a home. Elegant warm and inviting.

Here are the girls of SLGL

The store is beautifully styled and there are treasures to be found in every corner. 

Thanks to Stacey and Stacey Leuliette Gracious Living for supporting Carolina George!

 Our Booth Interhall Space 200

We are in in High Point and look forward to seeing you! Lots of new finishes and a few new pieces as well.  We have finally completed our Screen and Console combo after months of tweaking.  We are showing it in a really great faux parchment and limed oak.  We are also introducing a smoked mirrored front on the sideboard diner for you less tidy people to store your dishes and things.  We will continue to update you over the course of the week!

                                                             Screen Console Combo with Blue Lacquer and Ikat Seat

                                                                   Bibliophile Dining Table in New Silver Fox Finish

                                                               Collector's Coffee Table in Antique Brass and Lime Stone Top