Blog - Southern Vintage Table

Southern Vintage Table Events – A Bridal Shower for Martha

“When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece.” – John Ruskin

And, so it was – a bridal shower masterpiece for Martha. A long-standing tradition among women friends is to honor a soon-to-be bride with a celebratory party before they marry. Guests lists include friends of the bride, mothers of the bride and groom, as well as their friends. This event provides a fun gathering for folks to meet each other before the wedding day.

For Martha’s shower, florals were everywhere! When guests entered Casey’s home, they were greeted with Jami’s grand floral arrangement in the hall, petite florals along the mantle and kitchen side table, and along the buffet table. What a glorious treat for everyone! And, since we all love flowers, the petite arrangements became gifts for the guests.

The shower officially began with drinks. Set up on the side table was a mimosa bar with an assortment of vintage pink and green goblets, Prosecco, and juices. In the butler’s pantry, guests could choose water, tea, or coffee. Our vintage clear, green, and pink goblets were lined up here, too.

A key element of any party, including bridal showers, is food. After meeting folks and catching up, it was time to eat. Our vintage silver trays were donned with a variety of sweet and savory treats. Also on the table was a crystal bowl filled with colorful fruit, deviled eggs, and spicy shrimp.

Jami chose an assortment of vintage plates – pink and green glass and green and pink patterned china. Vintage napkins, silverplated forks, and serving utensils completed the table settings. With the beautiful spring floral centerpiece, the final tablescape was perfection!

A shower would not be complete without a game for guests to play. Jami and Casey organized a Jeoporady-esque game to introduce the guests to Martha and Stephen. Categories included “About the Bride, “About the Groom,” “Wedding Trivia, “Wedding Movies,” and “Famous Couples.” The winner was awarded with a bottle of Champagne and, let’s just say, that the winning card was not pictured here.

Opening gifts for the couple was next. Martha unveiled from the beautifully wrapped gifts gorgeous bowls, a set of pots and pans, a cookbook, lemon apron and pot. holder, dishes, tablecloth, and pitcher among other lovely items. It was fun for all to see the nice things the couple will be using soon.

Guests left the shower feeling well-fed, happy to have met Martha and friends, looking forward to the April wedding day, and loving their sweet bouquet of spring florals. C’était magnifique, Casey and Jami!

Southern Vintage Table Events -A Seat at the Table & A Trip Around the World

Next chapter from our open house—and this one was all about a little friendly creativity (and competition). Photos are courtesy of Oz Images Photography.

Our Set Your Place Setting station brought out the designers in everyone. Each collage is a collection of colorful, clever, one-of-a-kind creations—and truly, we adored every single one. The second glimpse captures the lovely crowd who took on the task with such style and good cheer.

Then we were off on a whirlwind adventure with our What in the World contest. Twelve places, a bit of guesswork, and plenty of curiosity. Scores ranged from 4 to 9 correct, with our top contenders turning in two 7s and an impressive 9.

Congratulations to Priscilla—do get in touch to claim your prize… we promise it’s worth the journey.

Vintage Appetizer Plates with Silverplate tray

Southern Vintage Table Events – Sips & Bites: A Beautiful Beginning to Our Open House

Oz Images Photography captured so many lovely photographs from the evening that we simply must tell the story in chapters—beginning, of course, with the food and drink.

Katie and Ali of Beau Catering truly set the tone with a beautiful bar featuring crisp prosecco and their signature “Low Tide” mocktail—both delightful on their own, but especially charming with a little splash of one into the other.

We styled the bar with clear coupes for the mocktail and colored coupes for the prosecco (a small but mighty lesson learned: colorful drinks prefer a clear stage—otherwise things can turn a bit… muddy).

Alice was an absolute doll behind the bar, keeping glasses full and guests smiling all evening.

The food table was nothing short of a smorgasbord—bite-sized perfection at every turn. Our personal favorite? The petite tortes filled with chicken salad… dangerously good. Alongside were Tuscan-style vegetables, sweet potato rounds, cheeses, and breads, all beautifully arranged.

We were delighted to provide the serving platters, cake stands, and vintage plates that brought it all together. For the drinks, we offered coupes and a darling pink enamel baby tub to keep the bubbly and mocktail nice and cold. Judging by the crowd gathered nearby, our guests were just as taken with Katie and Ali as we were.

Next week’s chapter will be photos from the stations and we’ll reveal the winner!

Open House at Southern Vintage Table Inside View

Southern Vintage Table Events – Our Open House Preview!

Well… that was even better than we dared hope.

Our open house was nothing short of delightful—full rooms, happy chatter, and amazing energy. We’re still smiling. Today we’re sharing a few photos from the day, We had the pleasure of meeting Brighid, our photographer (Oz Images Photography), for the very first time that evening—and what a joy she was. Easygoing, delightful, and somehow managing to capture it all while we carried on, she felt like an old friend by the end of the night.

A heartfelt thank you to Katie and April of Beau Catering for the truly scrumptious bites and sips (guests are still talking about them), our dear Yaya friends (two out of five shown below) for graciously guiding everyone through the studio, and sister Sharon’s expert event advice for the flow design which worked so well! Nicholas and Roxanne set the tone with lovely background music that felt just right.

And the flowers—oh, the flowers. Jami worked her magic and the arrangements were simply stunning, adding that perfect finishing touch to every corner. (Note my best “calm, collected, and definitely not panicking on the inside” pose as guests started arriving. Haha!)

More is on their way. And stay tuned… we’ll soon reveal the winner of our “Where in the World” game.

What a joy it was to welcome you all in.

Scenes from SVT – A Studio in Motion: The Art of Preparing for an Evening Together

There is a certain kind of magic that happens in the hours just before guests arrive.

Over the past month—and especially in these final days—the studio has been quietly transformed. Shelves have been straightened and restyled, stacks of china carefully arranged, and little details thoughtfully placed so that each corner feels just right.

Everywhere you turn, there is something in progress. Signs being set into place, tables coming together piece by piece, and collections being fluffed and adjusted until they feel both effortless and inviting. It is the sort of work that often goes unseen, but it is, in many ways, our favorite part.

Southern Vintage Table Open House - Vintage Flatware

One table holds an assortment of patterns waiting to become someone’s perfect place setting. Another corner features a gathering of pieces ready for a bit of friendly guessing—twelve patterns, each with a story and a country of origin to discover.

There are small touches throughout the studio as well—thoughtful signage, charming displays, and a few lovely surprises tucked here and there—each one a reflection of the care that has gone into preparing for this evening.

We are especially grateful for the many hands that have and will help bring everything together. From planning and signage to the thoughtful flow of the evening and the careful tending of each station, this has truly been a shared effort.

As we make the final adjustments and step back to take it all in, there is a quiet sense of anticipation. In just a short while, the rooms will be filled with conversation, music, and the simple pleasure of gathering.

And for now, in these in-between moments, we savor the beauty of it all—just before the doors open.

Scenes from SVT – Stoneware, Colorful Goblets, and a Little Wedding Magic

Some visits to the studio simply sparkle, and Kacey and Evan’s design session was one of those afternoons. With their wedding reception coming up this May in Durham, the two stopped by to explore vintage dish options—and before long they were happily mixing, matching, and building a tablescape that felt entirely their own.

What made the afternoon especially charming was how naturally they worked together. Ideas bounced back and forth, plates were swapped in and out, goblets were held up to the light, and plenty of laughter filled the room as their vision came to life.

Their tablescape leans delightfully toward the unexpected. Wildflower-patterned stoneware dinner and salad plates form the foundation, bringing a relaxed garden feel to the table. Around them, colored goblets add cheerful pops of color, paired with classic stainless flatware for a timeless touch. To tie it all together, they selected colored napkins to coordinate with the goblets—small details that make a table feel thoughtfully composed.

When it comes time for dessert, the look will gently shift. Vintage glass dessert plates and elegant cake stands will take center stage, offering a lovely contrast to the earthy stoneware used for dinner. It’s a graceful transition that keeps the table feeling layered and interesting throughout the evening.

For décor, each table will glow softly with peg votives in clear, amber, and green—little flickers of light that will bring warmth to the celebration. And in a wonderfully welcoming touch, guests will be greeted with ready-to-enjoy pita and hummus, presented on colored glass plates and bowls. It’s a simple, thoughtful detail that adds both flavor and charm to the gathering.

Kacey and Evan’s design is proof that vintage tables don’t have to follow a single pattern. With a bit of creativity, a dash of color, and a willingness to mix textures, they’ve created a reception table that feels relaxed, personal, and completely memorable.

May can’t arrive soon enough. And, to add a little mystery, Kacey and Evan have planned a unique, hand-crafted Item for their guests. They will love it!

Scenes from SVT – A Table Set by Friendship

There is something especially lovely about preparing a table for family — and even more so when it is done alongside a dear friend of decades.

Eileen and Dale arrived at the studio ready to design the tables for a bridal dinner Eileen is hosting at home to celebrate her daughter and her partner, who were recently married upstate. The official vows may have already been exchanged, but this gathering will be filled with the warmth of familiar faces, shared stories, and the joy of welcoming a new chapter.

It took no time at all for their long friendship to reveal itself. The studio echoed with playful banter, easy laughter, and memories that seemed to surface as naturally as the plates they were stacking. Designing together felt less like decision-making and more like reminiscing with purpose.

They began with an assortment of vintage plates — beautifully patterned and delightfully varied — and once the first table was set, they paused. Something was missing. With a knowing glance, they agreed: another layer of tablecloth would brighten everything. And did it ever. The added layer brought depth, softness, and a gentle glow that made the china sing.

The finishing touches were thoughtfully chosen. Vintage gold flatware echoed the delicate gold details in the plates, while carefully selected vintage napkins were tucked into brass napkin holders for an extra touch of warmth. Four clear peg votives perched atop brass candleholders will cast a soft evening light, and elegant glass dessert plates promise a sweet ending to the celebration.

This dinner will be more than a meal. It will be a gathering stitched together by friendship, family, and the simple beauty of a thoughtfully layered table — proof that the loveliest celebrations are often the ones held right at home. ✨

News – An Afternoon of Wedding Dreams at Honeysuckle Tea House 🌿✨

There’s something rather magical about gathering under one roof with a collection of talented creatives—each one ready to help bring a celebration to life.

We were delighted to participate in the recent open house at the charming Honeysuckle Tea House. The afternoon was filled with energy and inspiration as couples and families made their way from table to table, meeting an exceptional lineup of vendors. Photographers shared albums brimming with love stories. Bakers tempted us with sweet confections. DJs promised lively dance floors, while a harpist added the most elegant soundtrack to the day. Rental companies (including yours truly), cigar artisans, makeup artists, and an officiant rounded out a truly well-appointed ensemble.

The Tea House itself outdid expectations with a beautiful spread of food and an inviting selection of herbal teas—each sip a gentle reminder that celebrations should be savored.

We had the pleasure of chatting with several engaged couples thoughtfully planning their wedding days, as well as a delightful mother-daughter duo dreaming up a baby shower for a beloved sister. It’s always an honor to be part of those early conversations, when ideas are fresh and possibilities feel endless.

All in all, it was a lovely afternoon—full of gracious hospitality, creative vision, and the promise of many joyful gatherings to come.

Vendors:
Events by Rebs
Fifty Two Hundred Photo + Film
Every Light Photography
Yodith Cakery
Even Dough
DJ Ryan The DJ
Classy and Sassy DJ
Kara Taylor Music
World Headquarters Cigars
ZimZoom photobooth
Sauna House – Durham
Union Grove Farm
Southern Vintage Table
American Party Rentals
Magical Weddings by Carly
Videri Chocolate Factory
Arcane Glow Esthetics

Southern Vintage Table Events – A Table Set for Hometown Heroes

There’s something especially meaningful about setting a table for those who quietly make a town better.

Earlier this month, we had the honor of providing the vintage tablescapes for Chapel Hill’s Hometown Heroes Luncheon—an afternoon devoted to celebrating the individuals who pour their time, talent, and heart into our community. The gathering took place at the beautiful Sancar Turkish Cultural and Community Center, where warm hospitality met heartfelt gratitude.

Before the event, we had the pleasure of welcoming Jada and Heather to the studio to design the luncheon centerpiece. The two brought thoughtful vision and just the right touch of creativity, carefully selecting pieces that felt refined yet welcoming. Together we layered classic vessels, soft candlelight, and timeless accents to create arrangements that honored the spirit of the occasion—gracious, steady, and full of heart. It’s always a delight when collaboration turns into something truly special.

With a delicious Mediterranean spread from Mediterranean Deli and generous support from Hendrick Subaru Southpoint, the room felt both festive and sincere. Our role? To dress the tables in timeless charm—layered china, polished silver, and glassware that catches the light just so—creating a setting worthy of hometown heroes.

We believe that beautiful tables invite meaningful moments. And this one was filled with them.

We’ll share the full story at the link below—but for now, we’re simply grateful to have had a seat at the table.

Photo Gallery of 2025 WCHL Hometown Heroes Celebrated at Local Luncheon

Scenes from SVT – A Joyful Visit with Josie & Her Mother: Designing a May Wedding Tablescape

We recently had the pleasure of welcoming Josie and her mother to the SVT studio to design the tablescape for Josie and Tyler’s upcoming May wedding—and what a delight it was. From the moment they arrived, the room was filled with easy conversation and genuine excitement for the celebration ahead.

Josie was an absolute joy, fully embracing the creative process and savoring every detail. Her vintage vision was vibrant yet thoughtful, bringing together a beautiful mix of vintage purple, light brown, green, and amber goblets that added warmth and personality to the table. The combination felt joyful and intentional—perfect for a spring wedding.

The vintage plate selections were delightfully eclectic, featuring several two-toned patterns in green and white, pink and white, purple and white, and brown and white. The mix created visual interest while still feeling cohesive and timeless. To soften the look, two vintage pink-hued floral patterns were added, bringing in a romantic, garden-inspired touch that tied everything together beautifully.

Design days like this remind us why we love what we do. Watching a couple’s vision come to life—especially when shared with family—feels like a true honor. We cannot wait to see Josie and Tyler begin their married life this May, gathered around a table that tells their story so well.

News – Snow Day, Southern Style!

When snow falls in our part of North Carolina, it’s a big deal. Just turn on the local news and you’ll see wall-to-wall coverage—meteorologists in high gear, reporters posted everywhere, and cancellations rolling in by the minute. So we decided it felt only right to take a snow day of our own.

Instead of our usual weekly blog, we’re sharing a little winter wonderland: snowy snapshots from around our place, along with photos friends and family have kindly sent our way. It looks like the snow may linger for a bit, especially with that sneaky layer of ice still underneath from last weekend’s storm.

And then there are the mystery tracks winding through the property… we’re equal parts curious and delighted. Any guesses who paid us a visit? 🐾

Sometimes the best plan is to pause, look around, and enjoy the rare beauty of a Southern snow day. Be sure to have the sound up to hear the soothing sound of the water.

P.S. Even on a snow day, we can’t help but sprinkle in a touch of vintage. This deep red creamer and sugar set felt especially fitting against the winter white—classic, cozy, and just a bit festive. Paired with a beautiful cardinal (courtesy of a little AI magic), it’s our reminder that a pop of color and a nod to tradition make even the coldest days feel warm. (Thank you Sharon, Cis, Jami, Louise, Mary, Pat, and Priscilla for your snowy photos!)