With the arrival of spring, new color is everywhere and it is impossible not to be inspired by it when it comes to setting a table.
During their short blooming period, I love going out and snipping a few azalea blooms. Arranging them need be no more than putting a stem or two in a collection of bottles. Would you believe these are ones I brought home from France some years ago? They are perfect on a table because they aren’t too tall.
The boldness of the azaleas led to choosing turquoise as their complement. At first I thought to use white dishes on the placemats, but these are even better.
Whenever they are used I have a nostalgic moment as they belonged to my mother-in-law who was such a very special person. The dishes are handpainted by Ernestine in Sorrento, Italy, and dated 1952. Despite their age, the dishes have such a contemporary look.
As I was putting the plates on the table, a robin was fluttering in the fountain, putting on quite a show.
Its antics reminded me that I have little birds for napkin rings. How perfect as this is the season when birds are passing through on their way to wherever they go. I’m glad these little ones are here to stay !
So, thanks to the inspiration of nature and feathered friends, the table is ready for those evenings we alternately share with friends. I have to say this one was such fun to do because of the spontaneous responses to what was happening around me.
i so appreciate your visit and the comments you leave behind
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Lulu's Musings 
Wow , loved each of the elements you used and the way , you described the significance of each . Now I am going to be a regular for all you posts
Thank you. I look forward to having your visits.
Those flowers positively glow in the sunlight! I love how the bright pink contrasts so cheerfully with the cool aqua place mats.
I wish azaleas stayed around a little longer as I like having them all around the house.
So attractive, Linda. I love the dishes that are special to you. Cheerful and happy table using beautiful colors.
Thanks, Bonnie. As old as they are, the dishes still have a contemporary look.
Beautiful table! I love all of the bold colors. Pink and turquoise is such a wonderful combination. That is a fabulous picture of the robin in the bath!
I do love color and never back away from it. The robin was such fun to photo.
Love the table and that fluttering robin!
Thanks, Ellen!
The turquoise was a perfect complimentary color with the pretty azalea blooms. I had never thought to cut some of my gardenia blooms to bring in (but mine are kind of sad compared to yours). Those napkins coordinate the colors of your placemats and the blooms just right!
Thanks Chloe for stopping by and leaving your comment.
Linda, you are fearless with color and I love your table. Those hand-painted plates are stunning, and they play so well against the azaleas! Beautiful!
You know by now, Pam, that I do love color and all the ways it can be used.
Love the mid-century plates! Such a fresh design! And perfectly accompanied by the simple elegance of azaleas.
Thanks, Sandra. I think the plates are ones that will always be current despite their age.
One of the best posts. Beautiful photos and love the dishes
Thank you my very talented friend.
Azaleas are beautiful with your inherited dishes. Beautiful.
Azaleas make everything look lovely.
Your table is stunning Linda! I love the few springs of azalea, it makes an elegant statement!
Jenna
I do love when azaleas bloom and always wish they lasted a bit longer as I like having them around the house.
Looks wonderful, Lulu. Love the bright colours.
In our now very neutral house, I needed some color!
Great post 😁