In the Holiday Spirit

For many of us, the holiday season is associated with eating and entertaining, celebrating with friends and family and going to parties. RRC Library’s “In the Holiday Spirit” series highlights resources from RRC Library’s collection that honour the season’s festivities. Today’s topic provides sources of ideas for stylish table settings.

Entertaining with Style

Table inspirations : original ideas for stylish entertaining

Table settings and decorations set the scene for a special occasion and create an atmosphere of hospitality, conviviality, and style. In Table Inspirations, stylist and interiors writer Emily Chalmers offers an abundance of delightful ideas for stylish settings and decorations for every occasion, from the simplest weekday suppers to classic celebratory dinners, or informal family lunches eaten al fresco.

Table settings : stylish entertaining made simple

Features 20 themed occasions, ranging from festive meals to simpler events, such as dinner for two or a lazy weekend breakfast. You don’t need family-heirloom china or silverware to recreate these appealing settings–fresh flowers, twinkling tea lights, and quirky decorative touches are enough. For easy reference, there is also a visual directory of international place settings. Designed for people with busy lifestyles, these stunning ideas by stylist Emily Chalmers are quick and easy to create.

Table magic : how to create fabulous table settings

Packed with over 100 creative and inspirational ideas for dressing the dining table, this book will help you set the scene for your dinner parties or special occasions.

The art of napkin folding

This book offers a diverse collection of 35 easy-to-do napkin designs, from classic favorites such as the Swan, to new creations such as Fanci Frills or the Happi Coat. Many of the designs will serve double duty: the Lazy Susan contains little compartments for serving nuts and snacks and the Roll Wrap keeps bread rolls warm from the oven. Following the carefully crafted step-by-step instructions, readers will discover how easily and effortlessly they can make memorable table decorations.

Napkin folding for every occasion

A well-dressed table is incomplete without an expertly folded napkin adorning each diner’s place, giving guests an enticing hint of the culinary delights to come. Now anyone can experience a touch of elegance, whether on a lavish holiday spread or to dress up everyday meals. The dozens of lovely forms displayed here range from the classic Roll with Tip to the extravagant Ice Bird, from the sophisticated Lying Lily to the voluptuous folds of the Shell. Using simple instructions and the detailed drawings, these small works of art can be formed from either fabric napkins or everyday paper, providing that little something extra that will really set your table apart.

Look Further…

Here’s a sample of seasonal table decorating ideas on the Web:

• 14 Christmas Centerpieces That Will Be the Center of Attention
• Beautiful Holiday Table Settings
• Holiday Table Settings

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