Welcome, Dear Friends to Part Two of
The Grits Christmas Open House.
Tonight, I am going to show you my
Breakfast Room Tablescape and Hutch
…and then we will take a quick glimpse into my foyer.
So follow me into the kitchen….
As someone who loves to cook, my kitchen is the favorite room of my home. (I will show you the rest of my kitchen tomorrow). I have fond memories of me and my dear Mama in her kitchen when I was growing up.
This year, I found that I was drawn to a very homespun look for my kitchen. I pulled out gingerbread men themed dishes which I had not used in over 10 years! I think because my son and his family are coming home, I have the need to make things as cozy as possible for them…and nothing is more welcoming to me than a homespun kitchen with gingerbread men.
My tablescape started out with an arrangment of greenery and berries in a ruffle-edged bowl. I love this bowl. I found it at Target several years ago and use it quite often. I added a vintage cheese grater with a candle inside. I have used this same idea in the past…using several cheese graters of different sizes grouped on a large platter. When the candles are lit, they look like miniature luminaries. Cinnamon sticks, apples and a multi-colored bow complete the arrangement.
It doesn’t get any more homespun than this….
I happened upon the perfect plaid tablecloth at Marshall’s. I love the white stitching between each square.
See the gingerbread men in the arrangement? I made this by simply gluing burlap onto cardboard cutouts, and used watered-down craft paint to give them a “baked” look.
Here’s a closeup. When glued to wooden skewers, they make cute topiaries when placed on top of berry pots. (Michael’s). Brown and cream checked ribbon is perfect!
I added a little bling to my gingerbread men in the form of red jewel buttons. (Michael’s scrapbooking section)
Here is a close-up of the centerpiece and the vintage cheese grater.
Here you see the gingerbread dishes with their hand-sponged detail. I layered each placesetting with a red charger ($1 from Dollar Store), a red and white striped plate ($1 from Dollar Store), a gingerbread dinner plate, a scalloped white salad plate….and finally a gingerbread bread plate. Red and white houndstooth ribbon creates a criss-cross design across the table.
I wanted a tableruuner which would stay within the homespun theme. I just couldn’t find any fabric that suited the feel I wanted….so instead I cut lengths of brown craft paper. I then used scrapbook scissors to create a decorative edge, and with the addition of a decorative hole punch….I created the look of lace. (or at least I think it does) 🙂
Here is the close-up. You can also see a better view of the beautiful plaid tablecloth, as well as, the cute napkins trimmed in polka-dots. (Marshall’s)
While at Cracker Barrel one day, I found some cute ornaments that looked like old-time cooking utensils. One was a rolling pin and another was a spatula. I bought two of each…and criss-crossed them between each placesetting.
I found these waffle-weave dish towels at Marshall’s and knew immediately what I would do with them. Chair back covers. I mean, doesn’t everyone think chair back covers when they see dish towels? 🙂 This one says “Nice”…the other one says “Naughty?” I will have to decide who gets what chair. (wink)
A ribbin bow held each towel in place, and on the fronts….a fabric store “G” monogram adds a personal touch.
Finally, I have to show you Mr Grits contribution to this tablescape. He calls this….
“Santa’s teeth!”
After I completed the tablescape, I didn’t stop there…..
The chandelier got a special treatment, too. Greenery, berries, gingerbread men and women ornaments and ribbons.
More houndstooth ribbon bows. The ornaments were purchased at a local pottery.
Now, let’s move over to the hutch……
More gingerbread plates set are nestled amongst greenery and white lights.
The matching cookie jar makes a great candleholder, and sits inside a berry-covered wreath. A small tart sits under a glass cloche.
Pinecones and a mosiac candleholder sit on the top shelf….
Bowls of blackberries and raspberries hold square candles tied with polka-dot ribbon.
The white lights create a soft glow at night all through the kitchen.
I love the smiling faces on the gingerbread men. They look so happy to be sitting in my little black hutch. (at least I hope they feel that way)
The soft glow of the hutch greets you as you enter the kitchen….
.
…can you smell the gingerbread?
Finally, let’s head back around the corner to the foyer. I have a beautiful, little bombe chest on the right side of the room….
I started out with a greenery swag hung at the top of the mirror.
A pretty plaid bow, pinecones, a few sprigs of berries and pheasant feathers….
Red and white ornaments dangling on ribbons adds a touch of fun.
The doggy plates were recently purchased at HomeGoods. Now, some of you might be asking – with a house full of cats, why would I have doggy plates. (my cats were thoroughly insulted) easy answer. I saw these plates and knew they would be the perfect gift for my friend Southern Whimsy. She loves scotty dogs. I “borrowed” these and I am holding them hostage to make her come visit me. 🙂
The arrangement began with two amarylis stems and just grew from there. A bit of leftover this, a touch of leftover that….
…..and another plaid bow.
A berry garland dresses up the base of the lamp.
The “B” plate was purchased at a hospital gift shop. LOL
So I hope you have enjoyed tonight’s tour. Make sure you scroll down and tour my formal Dining Room. Tomorrow night, I will take you through the rest of my kitchen (hint: I just had my kitchen cabinets painted red!), and also we will go into the Family Room. I hope you are able to stop back by for a visit.
I am joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday. If you did not come from there, pleasemake sure you visit Susan’s beautiful blog, so you will not miss out on all the wonderful tablescape posts.
Blessings, Barb
KD says
I’m coming to get you and those doggy plates too!!!!! Trying my best wicked witch impression here! Love everything Barb but I drool over the mirror garland with the hanging ornaments. I just can’t get enough of it!
View CommentKathryn @ Bonafide Southern says
I honestly believe that everything you touch immediately turns gorgeous!! You have done an excellent job in all of your decor. I especially love the cheese grater with candles. Merry Christmas!
View CommentJeanette says
I do not have words to describe how beautiful and tasteful and creative. You did an incredible job. Thank you for sharing.
View CommentLorna ~ Lace and Ivy Cottage says
Barb, what a cozy and festive home you’ve created. I love all the details of your dining room. Your son and his family will be embraced with all things that say “welcome home”! Your craft paper runner is so clever! I think that’s what I should be using on a daily basis in my busy home! Your foyer is so welcoming. Thanks for sharing all the wonderful details. I’ll be visiting the rest of your blog now! Merry Christmas!
View CommentMelissa Miller says
Barb this is truly gorgeous in every way! LOVE your fabulous hutch! ~WOW! 🙂
View CommentMimi says
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful! Everything is beautiful…I just love your centerpiece, it is my favorite. You have to be one of the most creative people on earth! You make decorating look like a walk in the park! Thank you for sharing.
View CommentMichael Lee West says
Oh, I love the layers and layers of china with your plaid tablecloth and the burlap touches. The cheese grater centerpiece is perfect and gives such a cozy, welcoming glow. I know you are enjoying being a grandmother. Anabelle called tonight to talk about her “baby turtle egg” that her mother bought at the aquarium–it’s supposed to hatch. She’s all in a tizzy. lol
View Commentjuliettelee says
What a fabulous festive style you have, so happy to have found your blog. I shall decorate with gusto.
View CommentHollace says
What a great idea to use graters for luminarias! I’ll put that one to use! Beautiful decorations. I hope you have a wonderful time with your family.
View Commentsweetpicklesandchocolate says
Everything is just perfect! You thought of every detail and it shows from beginning to end!
View CommentMerry Christmas!
Dena
Lori E says
It just gets better and better as you scroll down the page. Beautifully done.
View Commenthoneysuckle says
Cute gingerbread theme. I love everything with the evening lights. Have a wonderful Christmas and great food on those plates!
View CommentSandy says
Barb,
View CommentEverything is just perfect, but I have never saw anything that you put together be anything but perfect. There are just so many details that I love and tooo many to list, but I will have to say all the layering is just toooo beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Sandy
jacki_ste@msn.com says
Darling! A feast for the eyes!
View CommentSherry says
Very Nice! I love the use of colors and so many original details.
View CommentDonna says
I love gingerbread men! My table this week is gingerbread men too! I have the same kitchen utensils on my gingerbread tree! Actually I have many of the same things you do in my kitchen although I haven’t blogged about them 🙂 Love it!
View CommentBlessings,
Donna
once in a blue moon... says
this is adorable! i love your dishes and centerpiece, so cute~ the hutch is fab too!
View CommentMiss Janice says
Wow! I love this whimsical, cozy look! The pink and green tablecloth was totally unexpected and the perfect touch for the tablescape! I love the dishes, the towels on the chairs, the hutch. You did one awesome job with this one Missy!
View CommentJust g says
I love Gingerbread Men and I love how you used them in your decor.
View CommentYour whole display is so warm and cozy I know your kids are going to feel like they are right at home.
Great job.
Michael Lee West says
I am almost scared to type anything else tonight. I have been eating so many cookies, my fingers are swolled up and I can’t spell or type! A pity, I know, but I don’t regret those cookies.
I wanted to say I love your idea of the dish clothes as chair covers–so adorable!
View CommentPhyllis AROUND THE HOUSE says
wow you must have read my mind, I have been wanting to do a breakfast with a really country feel and could not think of a centerpiece, wow yours is so perfect, you did a great job on all of your decorations, love them all
View Commentvignette design says
Wow, so original. Love it. –Delores
View CommentChari says
Hello sweet friend…
Girl, I came over as soon as I read the sweet note that you left for me over at my place! I’m sooo glad that you came by…it’s just been too long since we’ve visited!!!
Ohhh my, Barb…I love, love, LOVE your “Homespun Christmas”!!! It’s just so fun and festive…and you’re right…it just feels “down home”!!! Your son and his family will just adore all of the time you have spent here to make their Christmas special!!! I’m so happy for you…that he is able to come home for Christmas!!!
Okay…I just have to tell you that what you did with the brown paper is simply genius!!! I love how that turned out and it’s sooo perfect with the sweet little gingerbread men!!! You always have the best ideas, Darlin’!!! Now…I love your place settings! Love all the layering of the pretty plates and that adorable gingerbread man plate just “tops” it all off!!! Love your centerpiece and all the pretty ribbons!!! Your entire home is simply gorgeous, my friend!!! I always enjoy my visits to your place…such a sweet treat!!!
Warmest wishes and Christmas blessings to you and your family, Barb!!!
Chari @Happy To Design
View CommentDebbie @ ribbonwoodcottage.blogspot.com says
BARB, I ABSOLUTELY GROANED…when I saw your centerpiece and then the rest of the post…oh my GOSH! So adorable. I’m in love with the gingerbread theme. I have quite a collection going on a little Christmas tree. I just love it, it makes me happy to look at. I love your black hutch, your table, the wreath on the window in the dining room, the bombe chest…what else…the table runner…so stinkin’ cute. You outdid yourself girl. I loved it all and will be back (drooling while looking) to look at it again…and again!
View CommentLove it!
Happy Posting!
Debbie
A Hint of Home says
This is just stunning and so unique. I love the centerpiece and your dishes are too cute.
View CommentBeautiful hutch.
Scooterblu's Whimsy~Rhonda says
Barb, Beautiful tablescape, and so very creative! I love it all! …even the santa’s teeth! :)LOL! The houndstooth ribbon and cheese graters are the perfect touch, too! Can’t wait to see more of your gorgeous home! ~hugs,Rhonda 🙂
View CommentPat@Back Porch Musings says
I love this, Barb! The centerpiece is fabulous and I love those plates.
Santa’s teeth, what a hoot!LOL
Merry Christmas!
View CommentCynthia says
I am a gingerbreadman lover! Your centerpiece is absolutely lovely. I have a gingerbreadman table this week also. Stop by when you can. Thanks for sharing your lovely home and have a great day!
View CommentScooterblu's Whimsy~Rhonda says
Barb, Scrolled down the see the post below, and was blown away! Everything is beautiful! Love the lushness of all the greenery you used, especially on the mantel! 🙂
View CommentMrs. P. says
LOVE your table! I’m all about the homespun & gingerbread 🙂
CHRISTmas Blessings!
View CommentGail
dee dee says
Ohhhh, this is so pretty! I love the colors and the combinations you used to create your table! You have such a great gift! Dee Dee
View CommentMid-Atlantic Martha says
Goodness! You’ve thought of everything! This is so pretty — I love your cheese grater luminary! This is a sight I could go to again and again — love the colors and those runners and your dog plates and….well and just everything!
View CommentSuzanne says
You are one very talented lady! Love the cheese grater and placemats. Fabulous!
View CommentMichelle@Sweet Something says
Barb, thank you for visiting me! Your tablescape and home are really beautiful! We are kindred decor spirits! 😉
View CommentMerry Christmas!
Michelle
Lori (All That Splatters) says
What a great job you did!! You have some beautiful pieces and everything was put together so prettily. Love the swag on the light fixture, too!
View CommentAnonymous says
Hello from Romania ,
please read the blog – My heart His words – at archive blog please look at November – Humbled and Convicted-
, my friend Tammy Nischan wrote them the story and some pictures of some hungryes poors kids , what we try to help them for future and especialy to make for them a little brighter , Christmas and after we will fight to help .Our LORD will be so proud of us if we will do something! Many kids dont have food ,or Christmas tree becouse theu are so poors ! I fight so much to help this kids but i cant alone ~ if anyoane wants to know much more or wish to help in anyway you can please let me know email me at :
tibivio72@yahoo.com
I love you blog,
sweet blessings and MERRY CHRISTMAS!
View CommentVioleta
laurie @ bargain hunting says
Barb, I’m so glad I’m going back to see all of this beauty I’ve missed on your blog! Your table looks so festive, and I LOVE the way you decorated the chandelier. I also love that swag with the ornaments hanging over the mirror. You are so creative and talented. laurie
View Commentlaurie @ bargain hunting says
Forgot to tell you – I also thought the towels on the chairs were brilliant, and look so great! laurie
View CommentBarbara says
Very Festive Barb!
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Betty819 says
Barb..I love all your decorations. Is there nothing you can’t do? You are so talented! Have you ever thought about starting a decoratng business for the holidays? My cousin’s neighbor does this for a living during the holidays..decorates their houses and trees and outdoors. I’m sure her clients must be in upper social and money bracket.
View Comment