A Review: The Art of Beautiful Tables: Ideas by Victoria Magazine & Making a Floral Centerpiece

In Honor & Loving Memory of Phyllis Hoffman DePiano who passed away July 10, 2023.
Follow me on Instagram @the.tartan.topiary
In The Art of Beautiful Tables, table settings that span the spectrum from casual to formal affairs are showcased. Crystal goblets catching the glimmer of candlelight, polished-to-perfection sterling silver placed precisely beside delicately patterned English bone china, a snow-white linen cloth edged in the finest Bruges lace-together these elements form the foundation for an elegant table setting.
Add monogrammed napkins, place cards penned in graceful calligraphy, and an extravagant arrangement of silk-petaled roses in vibrant jewel tones, and the tableau takes on an air of regal grandeur that both beguiles guests and reflects most favorably upon the hostess.
The leadoff chapter, "Elements of Style," delves into the components that are the essence of any tablescape and then spotlights those little extras, such as menus and favors, that lend grace notes to the scene. "Alfresco Gatherings" paints the prettiest images for outdoor meals, while “Lovely Settings” brims with milieus for every season or reason.
Highlighting a favorite subject throughout Victoria’s history, "Teatime Occasions" demonstrates that this beloved ritual can be enjoyed in a mélange of surroundings, from a springtime garden to a cozy fireside. In "Holiday Celebrations," we journey through the calendar, offering a bevy of inspiration for commemorating each special day with all the exuberance it deserves, whether it’s honoring a dear mother or sharing harvest abundance. Throughout the years, we’ve crossed paths with many women who possess the talents and desire for creating the most memorable settings; we showcase each one’s signature style in "Tastemaker Tables." Finally, we open the doors to "The China Cabinet," where suggestions abound for the storage and display of cherished heirlooms.
Victoria magazine has long served as a treasury of gracious living, offering endless inspiration for curating welcoming interiors and entertaining for every occasion. From the entire staff of Victoria, we warmly invite you to peruse each captivating page to gather an inspiring cache of ideas for creating your own unforgettable tableaux.
Music provided by EpidemicSound
China used in Table setting: Herend Rothschild Bird, Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Ware and original porcelain handpainted by Dulce Rush.
Bamboo flatware and Parrot candle holders by www.mrsalice.com
Glassware by Serena & Lily

[@thetartantopiary]

In Honor & Loving Memory of Phyllis Hoffman DePiano who passed away July 10, 2023.

[@mjef3695]

Did not know this. She will be missed.

[@jenniferm5486]

May her memory be a blessing. Rest in peace Phyllis 🙏

[@christinahand973]

Aaah. There you are. My weekly 15 minutes of peace.

[@thetartantopiary]

So sweet, thank you!

[@marthahoffmann8674]

I subscribed to Victoria magazine in 1986 when Nancy Lindemeyer was the editor in chief and remained subscribed until way after she left and the magazine changed a bit in the 90's. When I got married and moved to Germany I brought along all of them with me. Today I still go through them and always find an idea on how to decorate, make one of their tasty recipes or find a quote or saying when writing letters to dear friends. Victoria magazine is really a celebration of life and can't wait to get their new book. Mary I am getting close to 80 but still remember how my grannie and my mom taught me to appreciate beautiful things and take care of them especially porcelain. Your Rothschild Birds are exquisite and your curious candlesticks lovely indeed. Thank you for the book review and for sharing your ideas on how to set a "special table ".

[@thetartantopiary]

These magazines are timeless. I still find myself getting the Christmas issues out for inspiration in November and December. This is a great book at a great value and thank goodness for the maternal influences we both seem to have had!

[@psin0373]

Mary, you're a great friend! It's things like this that create those lifelong memories. As the Aussies say, "good on ya!"

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I appreciate that!

[@DLynne222]

I have been a subscriber of Victoria magazine since it began in the early 1990s. I think I have just about every book published by "Victoria Magazine," too, including this one. I found it heartbreaking along the years when I would move and have to sell my back issues, or when the magazine was shut down for a few years. So I was thrilled when Phyllis Hoffman DePiano (founder of Hoffman Media) renewed it's publication, and then collected all the original issues from 1992-2012 and published them on a searchable DVD--allowing me to have access to all my old issues once again! It saddened me very much, just a few days ago, to learn of the recent passing of Phyllis, and at such a relatively young age. She brought such beauty into our lives through the many magazine and book publications she made possible. Thank you so much for sharing this book, for being another woman who inspires beauty, and I know your friends are indeed blessed to be a part of your beautiful life. Thank you!

[@MariaReyes-te7lk]

Absolutely true...inspires our daily life thank you...

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for this lovely comment. You really are a fan of Victoria. I will have to say, in the early 90s (I was about 21 years old), I remember discovering Victoria Magazine and thinking this is how I want to live.

[@joycesewald1788]

I just love Herend Hungary porcelain, it is such a beautiful pattern.

[@moniquemckenna6795]

Outstanding table scape done with so much love and attention with special attention to each guest. 💕

[@theresabyrd4122]

Hi Mary. I love the story of the baby chicks and how that began enduring friendships! You are blessed as I'm sure you know.

[@thetartantopiary]

I do appreciate the reminder. I thank God everyday for His blessings!

[@loretta7851]

Love your beautiful table setting. Victoria Magazine has been my fav since its beginning

[@MariaReyes-te7lk]

Thank you, Mary..that daily joy to dress my table with detail and prepare it with love. The book is celebrating life at the table..a lot of people haven't find the joy of giving and sharing at a table..In the past we visited family and friend and stay all day long...including my parents at the beach house. Wow, Mary thank you again..

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you! I enjoyed finding the quotes about dining. Especially Oscar Wilde- “After a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one's own relatives.”

[@MariaReyes-te7lk]

I have my English notebook of quotes from High School and picture attached ..Quotes are great source of inspiration..Blessings

[@ninamelsted8702]

Mary to the rescue! Thank you for the delightful and triumphant chick story. And even more so for the amazingly sumptuous and economical spread you prepared in honor of your partners in crime in the name of humanity.

[@sherrycatanese4312]

Mary what a joyful occasion to celebrate and how lovely every detail came together as you thoughtfully & lovingly prepared for your company. I think a beautiful table makes you want to linger in conversation. I too love to use my best things often. I tell the family I’m using these china pieces, stemware, sterling item..so that when I’m gone you’ll remember when we sat together and used them and relive the moments. I too enjoy putting away each special piece and looking forward to making another memory with them. This book, as many of Victoria’s special books are a joy to linger over and plan to use the ideas it stirs in me. Bless you for such a wonderful break in my day.☺️

[@thetartantopiary]

What a thoughtful comment. Thank you for sharing. When I use my grandmother's crystal I think of her and the sweet (really sweet) tea she always served in them. Glad to hear you are creating memories with you fineries!

[@lindaroller9612]

Mary, loved the review. I too love setting a table, and do so seasonally at least. The table you set was so perfectly beautiful.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much. When I was a child I often prepared the table for "high tea" when my mom was not there, and then I had to carefully deconstruct my tablescape before she got home. I must have been a strange child!

[@teresavaughan3588]

What a lovely table you set for your friends. I am sure a memorable time was had. When I saw the book you chose to review, I immediately fixed myself a cup of tea and watched with anticipation. As a long time reader and collector of Victoria magazine and Victoria books, I was so saddened by the loss of Phyllis. I admired her so much. Thank you for the beautiful video!

[@thetartantopiary]

Yes- I was very saddened as well. I'm so glad you had tea with me and thanks for watching!

[@carolpipher4839]

🌿 ~Beautiful table setting Mary! Love your dish pattern & the "Bee" napkins! Sooo pretty! ~Have a blessed weekend.🏡

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you- the bee napkins came from World Market. You have a blessed weekend as well!

[@barbaracarlson1331]

I was so shocked when I read of Phyllis’s passing. What a legacy she left. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.

[@venturarivas4474]

Thank you Mary. I love Victoria magazine and am a subscriber. I do not like to part from my issues. I have some since 1998 and before that but I had depart from some. It’s my quiet time when I sit with one of my Victoria magazines. I enjoy every issue. Love your channel. Your voice is the perfect narrator. ❤God bless.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much!

[@mahnazzuberi6081]

Beautiful flowers, crockery and silver ware...joy to see

[@dulcerush735]

Well I bought the book. And you surprised me in such a beautiful way, so honored to be part of the celebration with your dear friends, it made me cry ❤ It made me happy, I too like surrounding myself with as much beauty as possible. Have a wonderful weekend :)❤

[@thetartantopiary]

I credited your art in the description of my video. Thank you for that! Your dish fit in so well with the theme. It made me very happy and honored to have it!

[@dulcerush735]

😊❤ beauty and happiness a great combination

[@kaylamson5161]

Gorgeous book Mary! Blue & white chinoiserie just makes my heart so happy! God bless, John 3:16🙏

[@thetartantopiary]

YES- something so simple that brings happiness to the eye and to the heart. To quote Martha Stewart..."that's a good thing"!

[@traceygartrell3419]

Thank you for your inspiration

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for watching. ❤️

[@jeaninewalsh5120]

Hello Mary, such a Beautiful book!! Your table turned out Beautiful!! Such a great idea with the flowers. Love your dishes and candelabras!! I hope you had a Wonderful time!🌿🌸🌼

[@thetartantopiary]

We did, thank you and I didn't even burn the quiche!

[@TrusellaLouise-ng3pl]

Mary, Your channel is so awesome! I love looking through these books. Thank you!

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad! ❤️

[@newfoundland3238]

Charming video,candy for the eyes!😀😀😀😀😀

[@seasonliving6916]

I love a pretty table and was nicely surprised when you showed the tea cups, I have at least 4 or 5 of the ones you show. The floral runner and table you designed is so beautiful.

[@thetartantopiary]

Herend Rothschild bird is one of my favorite patterns. I'm glad you liked the table runner. It was relatively easy.

[@elizabethlara4070]

Beautiful table setting Mary! I love Victoria magazine. I have several that i just treasure.

[@thetartantopiary]

I have many back issues also. It’s such a dreamy magazine. I am especially fond of the Christmas issues! ❤️

[@margaretspain2127]

Beautiful! Thank you for sharing. ❤

[@cindyrasley627]

Love this beautiful video and love the chicks story ! BEAUTIFUL ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much!

[@robertwessels9827]

I am glad that you saved the chicks! Beautiful party!

[@thetartantopiary]

Three college girls on a mission should never be underestimated. Thank you!

[@Laura-rx9mp]

Beautiful home and table setting. Thank you so much for sharing! It is always comforting to listening to you. Cheers

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much!

[@coleenstarling1217]

Everything on your table is exquisite! So inspiring!

[@hikingwiththedog6078]

Thank you for saving those baby chickens!! And thanks for sharing your table, all ready for your guests. You really inspire me to be more creative with my table - you did such a beautiful job and it looks so inviting!!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for watching and I would do most anything I could to help a creature. They all tug at my heart. 🐤💗

[@yvonneli2744]

So stunning! For sure nourish my soul, thank you🌹🌹

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad!

[@vickeypierce293]

What a gorgeous table setting!! You are so very talented ❤❤

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you. I'm not sure about talent, but I can follow directions and this book was a great visual aid!

[@2000disneyland]

I love your theme, the Birds and the Bees.

[@lindamiklos4964]

Absolutely beautiful table.

[@karenreiter533]

Oh Mary, thank you. You light up all of our lives. Just beautiful! 💕💕💕

[@thetartantopiary]

Wow, thank you! ❤️

[@TheSahand68]

I bought the book and I'm looking forward to receiving it. I like your relaxing KZbin videos narrated with a pleasant, sophisticated voice and relaxing music.

[@chrisogrady4956]

Your table is truly lovely in every way. I especially adore the exquisite pair of bird candlesticks. “Victoria” is my favorite magazine and yours is my favorite uTube channel. Thank you for the pleasure you bring to all your viewers.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much!

[@karenhuerter343]

Mary your weekly “visits” are anxiously anticipated and so loved. I absolutely love your bird candle holders! Thank you for sharing your love of design, books and antiques and southern hospitality. 🐥

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much!

[@user-uv4fb2jw3z]

ДЯКУЄМО ❤❤❤🎉

[@sherylgergen6672]

The design and decor of our daughter's wedding and shower was taken straight out of the pages of Victoria magazine. I have always been inspired by romantic surroundings and entertaining. Such a wonderful publication! Your friends must feel very pampered by your creation of such a beautiful table for them and no doubt a lovely meal! Thank you!🌺

[@thetartantopiary]

I can't imagine a more lovely inspiration that Victoria Magazine! I'm sure it was gorgeous. We did enjoy the meal and I didn't even burn the quiche!

[@MK-wm6gu]

I love your book reviews, and this was extra special because of you showing how to create a tablescape at the end. Thank you.

[@rajashrithakurdesai2253]

Yes the food needs to be excellent tasting and divine

[@ameliabotsis114]

You set a beautiful table! Especially the juxtaposition of casual and formal…beautifully executed. Thank you so much for walking us through how you made the centerpiece…I will be using your method often this holiday season. All the best!

[@thetartantopiary]

It's such an easy arrangement and is very mobile. Thanks for watching!

[@rosariopaiz6158]

One of my favorite magazines that I have been enjoying for years , thank you for sharing good memories of this beautiful magazine , have a great weekend, God bless you .

[@thetartantopiary]

You are very welcome and I hope you have a great weekend as well!

[@lindaortolano7837]

Hello Mary, Loved the book review! Mary, your table setting was just beautiful and what a great tip using the wire! Hope you had a lovely visit! See you in the next video! Hugs! :)

[@dartlanddunbar5842]

Everything is lovely, as always. I especially like the hand of an artist or the wallpaper behind the sideboard/buffet. I paused the video so I could soak up the beauty!

[@thetartantopiary]

There is a review on Zuber Wallcoverings and murals that you might enjoy. I feature my dining room mural and the installation process. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJbRl2l8hLd1nrs

[@rosariopaiz6158]

Love your napkins of ofcoures the whole table setting it's beautiful.

[@maryschlotter108]

I so look forward to your videos. Beautiful and peaceful always filled with wonderful tips, inspiring words and of course lovely books. Your tablescape was so pretty I love the theme 🐦🐝 .Thank you for saving those baby chicks🙏🏻

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate your thoughtful comment, and I was very happy to save those chicks. The aptitude of three college girls on a mission should never be underestimated. 🐥

[@mouriefeeney1903]

Hi Mary. Thank you again for a beautiful book review. Your very own table looked very elegant, for as you say, ~ casual get together with friends. Have a lovely weekend and know....I always enjoy! 💕

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for that! I hope you have a lovely weekend as well!

[@sondrahannan]

That tablesetting is stunning. Wonderful job.

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate the encouragement.

[@janiceminuto1707]

Mary, after your book review I was inspired to display some of my Cream on Lavender Wedgwood collection around my living room. Then I decorated my dining room table to match and carry out the theme. I loved hearing about your celebration luncheon with friends, and watching your instructions on floral arranging for the event. Thanks! Blessings, Janice

[@thetartantopiary]

I love hearing this and knowing you were inspired. I love that about good books. Thanks for watching and I appreciate your comment!

[@annettehowell9392]

Your table setting was so lovely, I'm sure your guests will be impressed. Such a nice thing to celebrate becoming a grandparent. I really loved the book and have subscribed to Victoria magazine for years, it ceased being published some years ago but I believe the subscribers were so upset they brought it back into publication. A must have purchase on this lovely book. Have a very blessed weekend and see you next week.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I was also very happy when Victoria came back . I hope you have a blessed weekend as well!

[@DuviBaez-dx1px]

I love ❤️ your videos.

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad!

[@evonwilkins6665]

Hi Mary, so, so beautiful!

[@kimclarke5018]

Watching this always makes me so happy. 😊

[@thetartantopiary]

Awww- that makes me happy! 🌞

[@mariesmith9507]

Very beautiful Mary👍

[@laurabyrd9903]

Thank you for your tips and inspiration it is lovely I adore it

[@thetartantopiary]

You are so welcome, thanks for watching.

[@josefinborg3069]

Marvellous show, beautiful elegance,perfect presentation.and l am glad you started by showing today’s reality of serving tea in a mug , which to me has always been improper.Mugs were originally a must for soldiers with their kit, and reasonably handy items for children.But a mug without the help of a saucer to hold a damp teaspoon looks so primitive and wrong.

[@SomewhereInIndiana1816]

Really gorgeous table decor!!!

[@kimberlycannaday7509]

I love the Victoria magazine and this book looks wonderful. Loved your floral design and your table setting and thank you so much for showing how to fold the round tablecloth.

[@alexandra2jerry]

I bought some beautiful fabric which I’m having made into a round tablecloth with large box pleats all around. It’s purely for a decorative table and not for dining off!

[@adrianamariapalacio5522]

Excelente decoración, me encanta ❤

[@jenh9361]

ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL...❤

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you! 😊

[@kathleenreynolds6492]

As a young child in the mid 1950s, dyed live chicks were an Easter treat for several years. They remained in our care for a week or so, then were taken to a friend’s farm to be added to their flock. Despite wonderful care, none ever survived and the practice of injecting dyes into eggs was thankfully discontinued.

[@DeathByFashion1]

I just found a Victoria cookbook at my local thrift shop and was intrigued to know more. This video is everything I was expecting and more. Thank you for sharing

[@marilynstickles8707]

I enjoyed your review of this book, and have had a subscription to Victoria magazine for many years. And I truly enjoyed the preparation of your own lovely dinner party with friends. It was such a delight! Thank you for sharing.

[@christineh5856]

That was lovely. I’ve read Victoria since the first issue…it inspires me as do you:) thanks🌸

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much. I feel the same way about Victoria Magazine. Each issue is like a vacation for the soul!

[@barbaradobson9298]

Let be Victoria & Southern Lady magazines. They both feature tablescapes and utilizing old china sets incorporated with modern ones… just delightful.

[@charlavinyard4203]

Victoria magazine is my favorite! Like your channel, I feel like I’ve had a nap after fifteen minutes! ♥️

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad. That makes me happy!

[@sharonchilds3871]

Thanks Mary, I’m going to buy that book. Your table scape is beautiful and I know your guests felt special.😊

[@thetartantopiary]

This was really a great book and the price was also great!

[@pamd1861]

I always enjoy your videos! Thanks for sharing great idea for a table runner. The table looked beautiful 😊

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate that and thanks for watching!

[@talycaorsi7887]

Such beautiful table! Your friends are so lucky to have you.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks- I am the lucky one!

[@emilypoulsen8072]

Beautiful book. I'm going to buy it for a friend, who always sets a wonderful table, as a Christmas gift. You are a woman after my own heart saving those baby chicks. ❤❤❤❤

[@emilypoulsen8072]

And I might add you set a beautiful table. Great idea for the flower runner!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for those sweet comments. I think your friend will enjoy this book. It is a great one.

[@emilypoulsen8072]

You're very welcome. I think my friend will love it!

[@dazedconfused5019]

A beautiful table will take your thoughts aways from a bad meal.

[@thetartantopiary]

YES, and goodness gracious, I've served a few! 😜

[@anila1932]

That was so sweet to watch you guys😊

[@mjef3695]

I know I probably say this every time but love your videos.

[@thetartantopiary]

Well- I'm glad you do! Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️

[@nancylaponzina8272]

Love this book and always anything Victoria creates, even as far back as 1992. They are beautiful and spirit elevating. Your table was so graciously prepared for your lucky guests! Thank you for saving those little chicks!

[@nathalieskidmore4470]

I forgot to mention that Victoria is my very favorite magazine. I have copies that go back to 2008. I had even older ones but they got lost in a move. I

[@alexandra2jerry]

I’ve just subscribed to the magazine, it looks wonderful and though I’m not a big tablecloth person, preferring to see the beauty in the gleaming, polished wood, I love my porcelain or china ornaments. One lady said “ Ahh my 15 minutes of peace” I couldn’t agree more. Thank you so much for bringing that in your videos. xxx

[@thetartantopiary]

That makes me so happy. I know things happening in the world need and deserve our attention, but it is nice to sit down for a few minutes and enjoy a peaceful moment. Thank you for the comment.

[@alexandra2jerry]

💕

[@camuchanomellini903]

Totally inspired ❤thank you ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad, thanks for watching.

[@idaniamorales6058]

Amazing 😻

[@puzzlecanes]

I would love a tour of your home.

[@ellenlepore3083]

Gorgeous table scape 🫖. I absolutely love the birds and the bees 🐝 theme 🌸. The Art of Beautiful Tables is a simply stunning book 📚.

[@sandramoore8806]

I loved this video as I do all if them. You are very talented, your home looks lovely, and your voice is so smooth and southern.

[@thetartantopiary]

I get lots of mixed feedback about my accent and voice. I appreciate the positive comment!

[@paulahawkins6732]

Mary, I love your channel and can’t wait for the next one. I just bought a book that I think you might enjoy. (I have no affiliation with the book, author, or publisher). It’s “A Home to Share,” by Leslie Saeta. Also, I met Phyllis Hoffman DePiano about 15 years ago at a Martha Pullen event in Huntsville, Alabama, and she was absolutely lovely and inspiring. She will be missed by many.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you! I have seen this book and have considered reviewing it. I was very sad about Phyllis Hoffman DePiano. I appreciate your comment.

[@dianeoneal4183]

Mary, I absolutely adore all your videos! This one is my favorite, I think. And what a special tribute to Phyllis Hoffman DePiano. She was such a talented lady. It always makes my day when I see a new posting by you. So relaxing and informative! And I love the centerpiece you created starting with the wire. How clever! Thank you!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you very much. I would love to take credit for the chicken wire idea, but my daughter is a florist and that is how she assembles a runner or swag.

[@johnmyers7008]

Hello Mary, your beautiful videos always bring me back to my center. In June, four plus years after her death, the contents of my mother's house was sold off in an estate sale. Even after that amount of time since her passing, it was still so onerous to see her house dismantled and sold. A walk through the empty house that she cared so much about and was such a big part of my siblings and my life was so disheartening. My mother cared so much about her children, home, and tradition. Your love of home, family/friends and tradition are a shining light in this day and age. I know I've said it before, but thank you so much for your videos. ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

I can only imagine how that felt. I refused to walk into my grandmother's house after all the contents were removed. I knew it would be too much for me. Your mother sounds like a wonderful woman. Thank you for sharing that with me and thank you for the kind words!

[@isabellagilbert3168]

Good Morning John, Sorry about the loss of your mother. I felt so compelled to respond to your comment because I felt like a freight train had hit me when I lost my Beloved Grandmother who brought me up. I kid you not when I say it felt like someone was squeezing my heart non stop. I felt completely and utterly devastated as the home I've ever known is dismantled and her beloved items sold as the estate is being wound up right now. I felt disheartened too but as I walked around the beautiful house so many wonderful memories of being there with my grandmother and the rest of the family came flooding back. Although I know things will never be the same again I will hold the values of love,of home and all the memories close to my heart. I wish you the best

[@johnmyers7008]

Thank you for your kind words, Isabella. I appreciate them.@@isabellagilbert3168

[@juliecarns]

Thank you for honoring Phyllis in this video; she has brought beauty to our lives for so many decades. I remember my mom ordering the first edition of Victoria and enjoying it in my single years; after I married, I ordered my own subscription but sadly had to give them away when our house was too full with 7 beautiful children. Your table is lovely with traditional details and up-to-date Serena and Lily sea grass cups. I’ll be looking for this book to join my collection of hospitality resources. Julie 🌷

[@kowen3377]

Loved this film , especially your beautiful celebratory table scape. Could you please provide details of your wonderful teapot with the flower finial? I think it is one of the most gorgeous teapots I have ever seen. Many thanks and greetings from Australia!

[@thetartantopiary]

Hello, the tea set is by Herend. It is a pattern called Rothschild Bird. Princess Diana used it at her wedding reception. I love it too.

[@kowen3377]

@@thetartantopiary Thank you for your quick and informative reply - much appreciated!

[@lindawatts5260]

Your table and table runner was absolutely beautiful in every way. I will try to do the table-runner w/wire like you did. Looks easy enough. Thanks for the tip. I enjoy your relaxing UTube channel very much and your voice totally relaxes me. I’m sure your guest loved the luncheon . Oh by the way, The bird candlesticks are so pretty! Where on earth did you find them? Good Day❣️

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate that, and it was very easy. The candlesticks came from www.mrsalice.com

[@nathalieskidmore4470]

My Irish mother always said , " Tea with a friend is better than wine with the king."

[@thetartantopiary]

Your mother was wise! I'll remember that quote. ❤️

[@dorislong9420]

What a beautiful table setting you did! Where did you find those gorgeous blue poppies?

[@thetartantopiary]

Luckily, my daughter is a florist and she had them.

[@moniquemckenna6795]

Have you ever plunged the hydrangea stem into boiling water prior to putting them into a vase? I have found they last a lot longer because the stem is cleared to allow water to keep the hydrangea fresh.

[@thetartantopiary]

No, I have never tried that. I usually split the bottom of the stem and dip it into alum (an inexpensive pickling spice) and then place the flower into a vase.

[@janedoe7330]

Thank you for rescuing the chicks.

[@thetartantopiary]

They were beautiful and dear to me, as are all creatures! Thank you!

[@marge-bg4zn]

I need you to come fold my fitted sheets 😫

[@s.barlow7062]

I love your centerpiece! However, I would never use a charger on a tablecloth. Your clock is so beautiful your plates do not need a charger.

[@svetlanaalenina4430]

Вкусно дорого красиво❤

[@psisky]

Ooh, what is that beautiful set of china at 5:13? Anyone know?

[@thetartantopiary]

It is beautiful. It's "Queen Victoria" by Herend. It was introduced in 1851 at the first World Exhibition in London. Queen Victoria purchased it herself and subsequently was named in her honor.

[@psisky]

@@thetartantopiary Thak you.

[@barbaracarlson1331]

I love Victoria magazine and cannot part with my issues.

[@morenatrooper1438]

Is that a Flora Danica?

[@thetartantopiary]

If I recall correctly, there was a set of Flora Danica in one of the pages photographed. This is one of my favorite patterns and well out of my reach $$$. I received 2 plates as a wedding gift and I was hoping they would start a family...no such luck. 😄