PRETTY PLATES | Mix the wreathed plates of Juliska’s Boxwood & Bow collection with pieces from the sumptuous Ruby color way, and you’ll have a cheerful contrast of color and texture that will make your holiday meals that much more beautiful. Ruby Collection, $29-$89, Boxwood & Bow collection, $17-$78, at Juliska, Stamford, (203) 316-9118, juliska.com.
WHAT A DISH | This whimsical “Les Maisons Enchantées” presentation plate from Hermès is sure to please your dinner guests. Rich detail makes a big statement. $140, NYC, (212) 751-3181, hermes.com.
WAXING ELEGANT | Check out this collection of candles from Himalayan Trading Post. Each eco-friendly soy wax candle comes in a beautifully painted terracotta jar. And of course, they smell great too, in scents like campfire, orange grove and mistletoe. $12-$20, available at Passports, Salisbury, (860) 435-8855, and himalayantradingpost.com.
On a Turquoise Platter | The pattern on this Merletto platter from Arte Italica was inspired by antique Italian lace, and the “aqua” color adds something a little different to your collection of classic white serveware. $100, available at Hoaglands of Greenwich, (203) 869-2127, hoaglandsofgreenwich.com and La Dentelliere, Scarsdale, (914) 725-2800, ladentelliere.com.
CENTER OF ATTENTION | This colored crystal and marble vase was designed by Marcel Wanders for Baccarat as part of the “United Crystal Woods” collection. We think it would make a stunning centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. $3,950, Greenwich, (203) 618-0900, baccarat.com.
MADE TO LAST | These flowers are fake but you’d never know it by looking at them—and neither will your guests. Diane James’ floral arrangements will last from Halloween to New Year’s Eve—and beyond! It’s one more easy way to get your home looking gorgeous for the season. Autumn in New York Bouquet, $550, dianejameshome.com.
PRESENT PERFECT | The crystal Titiana salad bowl from William Yeoward Crystal is a classic that you’ll use year after year, and would also make a terrific gift for an especially gracious host. $295, available at Hoagland’s of Greenwich, (203) 869-2127, hoaglandsofgreenwich.com.
SERVE UP STYLE | Imported from France and made of rubber-coated linen, these trays are ideal for serving desserts, or for helping gather up plates and silverware between courses. Available in four sizes and five colors, there’s one to suit every need. $80-$200, at Lucca & Co., NYC, (212) 593-0117, luccany.com.
HOLIDAY HELPING | To participate in Person-to-Person and OPUS’s “We Give Thanks” month, all you have to do is throw a dinner party in November, and in lieu of hostess gifts, ask your guests to make a donation to Person-to-Person, which will help low-income families and individuals buy essentials this winter. For more information contact Liz Koons, (203) 940-0588, koons@optonline.net or Missy Radin at missyradin@optonline.net.
This article appears in the November 2010 issue of Cottages & Gardens.