A Holiday Sneak Peek - the Fair Trade Way

I hope you enjoyed last week's Fall tablescape featuring many of the lovely items sold at Ten Thousand Villages.  Well, after unpacking and displaying the newest merchandise, which includes quite a few things for the holidays, I just could not wait to set another table and show off the new collection.

As you can see, even though the collection is a little glitzy, with red and green predominating, it certainly does not scream Christmas.  I think it's the perfect collection to ease into the holiday season.  I began with this...

...Flowering Vines tablecloth, hand block-printed by artisans in India.

The border is the prettiest part.   As with most of the cloth available at the store, matching napkins are available.   Set on a cream background, the intricate pattern is printed with rich deep red, green and gold dyes... and to my delight, just a little bit of grey.  You know how I love grey!

Yet another chance to use my glossy grey plates that I am so very fond of.  Set atop these shimmery beaded red placemats,  the setting is so festive.

I almost chose some green wine glasses and red water goblets, but opted for these gold goblets instead. Again, by using the non-predominate colors in the cloth as inspiration, the tablescape does not feel too Christmasy.  Now for the details.  I like to send my guests home with a little something to remember the evening.

I think these hand woven red and natural palm leaf stars (actually an ornament), made in India, are the perfect touch.  I do love to weave a garland around my tabletop, especially when it is as cute as this...

... Star Splash red and gold silk garland, also handmade in India.  And now for my favorite feature of this table...these oh-so-fabulous Sunburst  candle holders.

Whether you use a chunky candle, like these glittery red ones, or just a simple little tea light, I can see using these brassy dramatic candleholders all year long.  When I found this vintage yellow fan shaped vase at the Bountiful Barn in Glen Ellyn, I just had to bring it home.

I knew that flowers were going to sit just perfectly in this vase.  See what I created with just a dozen red roses (thanks again Trader Joe's) and one minute of my time!!  So, have I gotten you just a little bit excited for the holidays?  Please, please visit Ten Thousand Villages' website to read the artisans stories in greater detail and to shop for gifts with a purpose.  I invite you to join me at the following parties this week:

Centerpiece Wednesday (The Style Sisters)

Tabletop Thursday (Between Naps on the Porch)

Feathered Nest Friday (French Country Cottage)

Home Sweet Home Friday  (The Charm of Home)

Potpourri Friday (2805)

Seasonal Sundays (The Tablescaper)

Let's Dish (Cuisine Kathleen)

Open House Party (No Minimalist Here)

P.S.  Great photos, Laura!