Come sit with me for awhile … and see what I’m bringing to the table

GUNG HAY FAT CHOY

The table above is a mock-up version of my January 31st celebration table.  .   . showing only the very basics, but not the bling.   .   . WHY NOT YOU ASK ??? .    .    . because… I think it would be fun and great practice for you to take my basics and run with it.

My table covering, bought in Malaysia, is a gorgeous, extra large sized vintage silk and gold thread textile that had originally been used as a sari.  .   . Sounds expensive … Looks expensive … but NOT! ! !.   .   .  A pre-owned slightly worn, frayed edge, here and there does not/should not command the highest of prices.  This is where you have to take liberties, and step out of the box people… Learn to negotiate .    .    .

Dishes… simple, simple, simple, square black earthenware plates, topped off with deep bowls in green, for the first course of soup. Red linen napkins nestled in between the bowl and plate, with lacquered colored chopsticks tucked in each bowl. My centerpiece is an antique horse drawn carriage with a Chinese man at the reins.   .   . After all… it is the year of the horse!!!

A few of my embellishments for the upcoming New Year’s table. A very old wooden tray with a well worn etched dragon, celadon hand painted mini vase, heavily cut ruby red  tumblers perfect for red wine .   .   . add tons, and tons of gold tea lite holders…

I don’t expect all of you to have vintage this, and vintage that .   .   . really I don’t .   .   . but this is what my columns are about.   .   . getting your creative juices going!

No wooden tray… use a piece of fabric. Celadon is a common place and mainstay color for Chinese pottery and sooooo easy to find. Cut red glasses not so easy to find, agreed .   .   . substitute .    .     . I know you can do it .   .   . just think out of the box!

PS… 99cent stores, Crate and Barrel, Cost Plus, Pier One.   .   . I promise it’s ALL there in one form or another. Just imagine what a little bit of imagination will do for your table!

Come back next week for some yummy and easy dishes for your New Year or anytime table

*Part II of III parts GUNG HAY FAT CHOY celebration

Sharon Insul is the former owner of the popular Beverly Hills boutique Candle light and…