The Rustic Table

The table for the Italian Feast Dinner was rustic and simple.  I set up a long row of  tables with umbrella's to seat 25 people outside. The weather was perfect, everyone could see across the table from each other, so it kept conversations and singing at times, going. Red and white checked table covers, white dishes, flatware (no plastic forks or knives), white napkins and real wine glasses (no plastic).  I made up sunflower arrangements with baby breath and lavender in mini milk bottles tied with rope and chalkboard labels that read in Italian "ciao a tutti, andiamo a mangiare!" - hello everyone, let's eat! And drink - I also served a variety of Italian wines and drinks, including Limoncello, Italian cream sodas and San Pellegrino Sparkling Water, I love that mixed with lemonade flavored Crystal Light.  Try it, it's so pleasing and refreshing! 

This is the dessert tower, more on that and the other desserts that were homemade tomorrow, stay tuned!

The Bargain Hunter

I needed a picture frame, but I hate spending a lot of money on them, they are always so expensive.  I usually can get them at the thrift store, they are cheap there, then take them home, clean them up and put a coat or two of paint on.  Well, the last few times I was there they didn't have any.  So I had to buy a frame.  My sis and I were in Jo-Ann Fabrics and they had them on sale, buy one get one free!  I also had a 30% off coupon to use.  One frame was originally $14.99 and then my 30% coupon brought it down to $10.49.  So I got two 11 x 14, beautiful Matted Frames for only $10.49!  Unbelievable luck for me.  I also purchased another double mat for $2.99. 

Check these out. They are mason jar tops, that you can arrange flowers in for a that rustic look you want to achieve.  And, decorative chalkboard labels for the jars, you can use for any occasion.  You write on them, wipe them off and reuse, removable too.

Graphic canvas, originally $34.99, in the clearance section for $13.49 and I got another 15% off, final cost $11.47!  This will be added to another grouping of pictures in my bedroom.

I love the song and this saying.  This 24 x 18 canvas was originally $49.99, marked down 50% off to $24.99, and I got another 15% off of that - final cost $21.24.  For the kitchen redo, stay tuned for that.

Individual butter dishes ($1.29 @ CTS) for the Easter dinner tablescape.  Also, egg cups ($1.99 @ CTS), that I may use to decorate with a colored egg and names on them for seating arrangements.  I will use a little bit of Easter grass or shred in them too.