We created the majority of the table settings in this book in our own homes and those of friends Most feature our own dinnerware, flat- ware, and the rest, supplemented by pieces borrowed from friends and family; other pieces we used are from thrift stores and antique shops. Only a few are new purchases from stores that sell housewares and home accessories. Many of the settings are developed around an all- purpose collection of standard tableware(easy and inexpensive to assemble, you probably already own most of what you'll need). That means you don't have to invest in several new sets of designer dishes translate the looks to your own table
And every design is based on the idea that the ways we cook, eat, and entertain today are different from what they once were. In an era when takeout in front of the fireplace counts as having friends over for din ner and a potluck picnic is far more common than a five-course meal styles are more relaxed and settings can often be much more casual. We offer a simple, uncomplicated approach that fits the times. Our settings typically focus on one interesting idea(or great color or clever solution to a serving problem) rather than a lot of competing decora tion. They draw on the everyday for inspiration(from the changing seasons to the challenges of entertaining a crowd) and incorporate ordinary, accessible items into distinctive displays.
So pull up a chair, fip through the following pages, and remind your self how much you already know about making a table a welcomung place. Then, put the book aside and do what comes naturally-invite someone to sit down and join you.