I came across these two images of a wonderful Thanksgiving our family enjoyed in 2004, many years before Instagram. The image quality is poor and the setting is nothing fancy or elaborate, but I love the dim lighting and how the candlelight dances on the glassware. It looks beautiful and I still remember the evening.
On a family trip to Europe in 2004, I purchased the tablecloth and stainless steel flatware in Madrid, Spain. The tablecloth is from Artesania Reyes – a store solely dedicated to table linens. In 2004, they had been in business for 30 years, but as I Googled them to include a link, I learned the business has permanently closed their doors. I can remember the sense of awe and overwhelming experience as I walked into the store. Maybe that’s when my love for a beautiful table started. Until then I had never seen a store that specialized in table linens nor had I seen so many gorgeous linens in one place. This tablecloth is both embroidered and painted, and durable enough for daily use. I have two sets with matching napkins. The flatware is from Pintinox and purchased at El Corte Ingles in Madrid, Spain. El Corte Ingles is a mega department store that includes dry cleaners, a market and a post office. It’s a city within a city.
The plates are vintage hen & rooster green Bordallo Pinheiro. I don’t know if you can see the detailed trim, but it’s the image of a hen and a rooster among corn crops. This design has been discontinued, but you may find some on eBay or Replacements, LTD. The clear wine glasses are Italian and purchased at Marshalls, but I don’t know who makes the light green glasses and pitchers – we’ve had the set for many years. A simple ribbon gathers the napkin and silverware on each plate and a small floral arrangement with a few scattered votive candles in the center completes the decor. It’s very simple and one that can be put together in no time.
We set four desserts on the sideboard along with the dessert plates and spoons. From left to right: Pecan Pie, Pumpkin Pie, Cheesecake with Caramel Maple Glaze and 7-Up Lemon Pound Cake with a side of Raspberry Grand Marnier Sauce.
While this post is minimalistic, I hope you can appreciate its simplicity and maybe it reminds you of holidays past and heartwarming family memories.
