Vintage ornaments are one of my absolute favorite things about Christmas. I adore everything about mercury glass ornaments–the pastel colors (especially the pinks!), the oxidation, the artfully chipped and worn paint. My collection of vintage ornaments began with several boxes that I inherited from my husband’s mother Carol, who passed away before I met him. Every time I open those boxes, where her ornaments rest with the original tissue paper still tucked around them, I feel close to her.
In my heart, she and I are great friends. We are kindred spirits who loved the imperfect, sparkly beauty of these ornaments. I imagine she and I would’ve made a special date to unpack them together each year, sighing and marveling at each one as it emerged from those lovely cardboard boxes. What I wouldn’t give for just one day of hunting for vintage ornaments with Carol now.
Still, when I unearth another box of mercury glass pretties on my own thrifting excursions, I imagine somehow that she experiences the thrill of the find with me. Over the years, my collection of vintage ornaments has grown so that our tree cannot hold them all. As I was hunting for ways to display them, I came across the Flickr photostream of Citrus and Orange, where I found the most delightful mix of ornaments and china. Susana’s displays are so fresh and whimsical, I just had to share. Wouldn’t these make for the most gorgeous additions to a Christmas brunch tablescape? Be sure to visit the Citrus and Orange blog for tons more inspiration. I think these ideas are just the way to display and honor Carol’s collection in my own home. – Elizabeth
[All Photos + Styling by Citrus and Orange]
