Text by Britt Stafford • Photography by John O’Hagan and Caroline Smith
Since 1750, Royal Crown Derby has produced numerous eye-catching and exquisite fine bone china patterns. And if there is ever a time to pull out the fine china, it’s the bustling holiday season in November and December. The beauty of Royal Crown Derby’s Elizabeth lies not only in its appearance, but also in its versatility for a number of settings for these festive months.
Thanksgiving
Set Spode’s Golden Valley, featuring an apropos array of fruit, against stunning Elizabeth for a precursory tea party prior to Thanksgiving Day. Oneida’s Golden Michelangelo flatware and a centerpiece of flowers in seasonal hues maintains the table’s elegant ambiance.
Christmas
Elizabeth’s dinner plate and teapot pair well with a deep-hued charger and Wedgwood’s Holly Wreath salad plate, sugar bowl, and cup and saucer for a Yuletide affair. Let the intricate handles of Whiting Division’s Lily flatware serve as the final touch for this merry teatime tablescape.
New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve is an idyllic occasion for a little glitz and glamor. The delicate gilded trim on Elizabeth’s teapot, cups and saucers, and ruffle-edged plates is the perfect star of a gold-and-white tea table. Accompanied by Arte Italica’s Vetro Gold chargers and flute glasses and Oneida’s Golden Artistry flatware, ringing in the New Year will be a truly grand experience for guests of afternoon tea.
Resources include Royal Crown Derby Elizabeth Gold dinner plate, salad plate, teacup, saucer, teapot, creamer, and sugar bowl from Devine Corp.
New Year’s Eve
Arte Italica Vetro Gold charger and Champagne flute from Arte Italica. Oneida Golden Artistry knife, salad fork, and teaspoon from Replacements, Ltd. Vase, votives, and napkin rings from private collection.
Thanksgiving
Spode Golden Valley salad plate, bread and butter plate, creamer, and sugar bowl from Replacements, Ltd. Gold Beaded Cream napkin and Rust Velvet placemat from Pier 1. Oneida Golden Michelangelo 5-piece place setting from Oneida. Vase from private collection.
Christmas
Wedgwood Holly Wreath salad plate, teacup/saucer set, creamer, and sugar bowl; Whiting Division Lily knife, salad fork, and teaspoon from Replacements, Ltd. Red Scalloped Lacquer charger plate and Sage Ruffle napkin from Pier 1. Candle holders and vase from private collection.
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