Moodboard Monday: Fall Picks

This weekend marks the first official days of Fall. Get a jumpstart on your Fall fete and check out how we get inspired with our Autumn Ardor Pinterest board. Is there a better way to start the week? Herewith, a few of our favorite things:
1. We're still going gaga (much like everyone else) over Gatsby-themed and inspired parties. Our Sophia and Loren collections take the cake for elegant patterns.
2. We love Fall fashion, especially the ladylike apparel making its appeal known to fabulous fashionistas.
3. Hosting a wine night? Riedel is the no-fail choice of sommeliers and hostesses alike. 
4. Our POSH Vintage collection has the perfect mix for your mixers, including these Gatsbyesque champagne coupes. 
5. A look for the modern gal - fall florals and a chic t-shirt - our favorite.
6. We love Fall favors, especially engraved fruits - such a nice touch for a guest to see upon sitting down.
7. We love a good arm party, especially one with Hermes and Michael Kors.
8. Ambiance is always important, and what better way to put your old wine bottles to use than as a centerpiece of candles?
9.  Fifty shades of gray? When it comes to nails, we say YES.
10. The time has finally come when you can enjoy coffee and hot beverages (hello, Pumpkin Spice!) without sweating every sip. 
11. Elegant seating and traditional tabletops will never go out of style. Fall is the perfect time to practice your presentation before the holidays.

Toast: Design Within Reach

You base your wardrobe on a foundation of classics peppered with trends, and you evoke that same mindset when setting the table. We love our classics (hello, Chanel). Tabletop: Gold Rimmed Glass Charger, Barcelona Gold Dinner Plate, Gold Leaf Salad Plate, Silver Beaded Salad Charger, Gold Lace Demitasse, Dynasty 24 Karat Flatware, Gold Lace Wine Goblet, Gold Scroll Water Goblet. Champagne Petal Linen by Resource One, Inc., exclusively at P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals.

There is a feeling of Spring awakening in the air with Memorial weekend behind us and the early days of Summer ahead. That rebirth and renewal is being met with new collections, carefully curated with our clientele in mind. To see what patterns and prints we have to play with plus seasonal specials, join our mailing list. Need another reason to join? You'll get information on becoming a POSH Preferred client, which means first dibs on these collections, and believe us when we say they are the perfect additions for a proper tablescape. 

The art of dressing the table for the most discerning clients. Quality and timeless original design trumps all else. For design that is truly within reach, rent high-end items for the moments that matter most. Tabletop: Silver Florentine Charger, Simply Platinum Dinner Plate, Sophia and Loren China Collections, Floral Elegance Flatware, Silver Lace Goblet, Elise Cut Crystal Wine Goblet, Pewter Chiavari Chair. Champagne Organza with Double Rhinestone Trim by Resource One, Inc., exclusively at P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals.

With so many exciting things ahead, we want to take this moment to thank our clients. Because of you, we have been nominated for Best Event Rentals in D Magazine! (You can still vote for us daily through June 2nd here.) You believe quality matters, personalized approach to service, and timeless design deserves a place at the table. We couldn't agree more and promise to continue to deliver to the events that matter most in your life. The fine art of dressing the table isn't just saved for weddings and galas (although they definitely deserve prime spots), but rather it's a skill that should show how you rise to occasion at family and friend gatherings, birthdays, and anniversaries.

Tabletop Tuesday: Silver Radiance

There is such a radiance to a silver tablescape that rings both modern and elegant. When gold can seem too much and patterns to loud, know you can always rely on this tried and true metallic tone to mirror any centerpiece or accent colors. Designed by Marin Fiske-Rankin for SMU, the elegance of the Meadows Museum is reflected by a place setting that is beautifully traditional without  coming across as stuffy. Layered Sophia and Loren china creates a unique look that can be changed with each place setting at the table for a one-of-a-kind visual experience for the guest that will make them feel royally wined and dined. If you love silver but want to perk up the palette, Chloe goblets (available in a variety of colors) are the perfect addition to toasting in style. This is a great look for a traditional wedding, important corporate dinner, or holiday.

Design + Planning, Marink Fiske-Rankin
Photography, Tamytha Cameron
Floral, The Garden Gate
Venue, Meadows Museum

Toast: The Grand Dames

Today we're toasting the grand dames in our life - the matriarchs. Who would we be without the eclectic upbringing our grandmothers provided, the wisdom of our older aunts and female friends, and the unconditional love of our mothers. Their support comes in different forms, sometimes in ways we will never understand, and cannot be defined by any phrase or saying better than that one huge little word - love. We celebrate their uniqueness and originality; their quirks and their quips; and, especially, their love of celebrating life. It would be an injustice to not toast them with anything less than a fiercely fabulous tablescape. Tap into the personality of the grand dame in your life and set the table according to the style you see them exhibit in their daily lives.

Left: Mod squad meets modern elegance. Don't you want to meet her? | Right: A Jordan Payne designed tablescape featuring Mottahedeh Lace Charger, Loren China, Floral Elegance, Silver Rimmed Water Goblet, Silver Floral Lace Wine Goblet, Turquoise Trumpet Flut.

Women of a certain age are, in our opinion, the most beautiful beings on the planet. They have come into their own and ushered in new generations along the way. They haven't lost their love of all things pretty and pleasing and no longer get hooked on trends. So, how to set the table for them? We matched images of our fab ladies (including the awesome Iris Apfel) to tablescapes perfectly tailored to their looks. Both are at once traditional and elegant, yet exotic and textured; a perfect dichotemy for a well-rounded woman.

Left: Oatmeal Mesh Linen by Resource One, exclusively at P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals; Jan Barboglio Hammered Copper Charger, Barcelona Gold Charger, Mahogany Rose Dinner and Salad Plate, Exotic Bird Salad Plate | Right: The fabulous Iris Apfel

Tabletop Tuesday: Silver Spring

Perfect for Spring's pastels, our silver Loren and Sophia China Collections made it into Brides of North Texas for a gorgeous tablescape designed by Kerrie Smith of A Stylish Soiree. This could easily be a garden party or brunch, a wedding reception, or family dinner on Easter Sunday. There's even a behind-the-scenes video. 

The Loren China Collection is front and center as the perfect companion to Spring's pastel palette. Add a modern touch with our Artesian Flatware.

Get the look at POSH: Clear Cut Crystal Charger with mixed Sophia and Loren China Collections, Silver Lace Goblet and Silver Goblet, and Artesian Flatware

Design, KERRIE SMITH, A STYLISH SOIREE
Photography, WISNER PHOTO
Venue, DALLAS ARBORETUM
Videography, SWEET HONEY FILMS
China, stemware, flatware, chargers, napkins, POSH
Tables, chairs, FAUXCADES
Paper goods, IMAJ DESIGNS
Cakes and sweets, HOSPITALITY SWEET
Coffee bar, HOT SHOTS CATERING     

Tabletop Tuesday: A Case of the Blues

We love a blue wedding. We've seen classic themes that include Tiffany blue and nautical navy as well as seasonal themes that bring icy blue for a winter wonderland. What we don't get to see very often is aqua blue, so we were thrilled when Jordan Payne used this festive hue for a tablescape perfect for spring brides. Who wouldn't fall head over heels for this tabletop? 

Image courtesy of JOHN CAIN PHOTOGRAPHY | Rentals include Mottahedeh White Lace Charger, Vera Wang Dinner Plate, Sevres China Collection, Loren Tea Cups and Saucers, Floral Elegance Flatware, Silver Rimmed Water Goblet, Silver Lace Wine Glass, Aqua Trumpet Glassware - all P.O.S.H. COUTURE RENTALS | Linens and Chair Sleeves: WILDFLOWER LINENS | Concept, design and florals by JORDAN PAYNE EVENTS | Stationery by KATE WEIDLICH, JORDAN PAYNE EVENTS

A great way to bring in other colors is with the floral designs on our Sevres China Collection. Plus, silver and blue always go well together so it's easy to mix in silver glassware and flatware with added white elements for a timeless tabletop.

 
More images:
Jordan Payne

John Cain Photography

If you're thinking about silver

Holidays always spark new engagements for the coming year. Congrats to all you lovely future brides out there. In honor of you, we are starting a new segment "This then That" to help guide you into a choosing tabletop that is perfectly tailored to your style - it is your big day, after all. For all you hostess with mostess friends out there, we don't plan of forgetting you. Each of these can easily transition into inspiration for your next dinner party or shindig.

So, if you're thinking of silver for your _______ (wedding/party/fill in the blank), then let's decide if you want to go classic or contemporary.

Left: Dallas bride Amy Alexander captured by CELINA GOMEZ PHOTOGRAPHY for DFW EVENTS. 
Right: Image from P.O.S.H. COUTURE RENTALS featuring Elise Crystal Cut Glassware, Floral Elegance Flatware, Sophie and Loren China Collections, Silver Florentine Charger, and Silver Floral Lace Linen by RESOURCE ONE LINENS, exclusively at P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals

The image above (from a beautiful wedding designed by DFW EVENTS which we will be sharing soon!) has the classic stylings of a timeless and traditional bride - a perfect match for our Sophie and Loren Victorian-inspired china collections. Below, the flower girl dress (from the same wedding) reminded us how often fashion and design reflect one another. Of course, it reminded us of the luscious petal linens offered by Resource One - a haute way to spice up your tabletops.

Left: A sweet bridesmaid from the same wedding as the bride above. Image by CELINA GOMEZ PHOTOGRAPHY / Silver Petal Linen by RESOURCE ONE LINENS, exclusively at P.O.S.H. COUTURE RENTALS Image courtesy of  GRACE ORMONDE WEDDING STYLE MAGAZINE

Which look did you like? We'd love to know! Also, if there is a This Then That you would like to see, send us your ideas or pictures to showroom@poshcouturerentals.com

Silver Bell Special

The family may have come and gone, but the New Year promises more parties and wintry soirees. So when you're out taking advantage of all the Christmas sales, don't forget the only one that will take your fete from plain to posh. Yep, our Silver Bell Special is still going strong, but you only have until December 30th to take full advantage.*

Copper Metallic Charger / Sophia and Loren China Collection / Silver Compote / Silver Rimmed Goblet / Floral Elegance Flatware / Silver Goblet

Silver Rimmed Goblet and Silver Compote

Close up of the Floral Elegance Flatware

Close up of the Sophia China Collection

All rentals above from P.O.S.H. COUTURE RENTALS | Photography by THISBEGRACE PHOTOGRAPHY.

Tabletops dressed in holiday style, in the air there’s a feeling of Christmas. To further celebrate the season of celebration, we’re giving you an early present: 20% off silver tabletop, chairs, and in-house linens on your next order.* ** A shimmering tabletop makes an impressive display for holiday receptions and cocktail parties.  Mix and match from our new Sophia and Loren china collections for a traditional touch or bring in our Artesian flatware for a modern flair.  Whatever you’re planning for the holidays, we’ve got your tabletop covered.

*Excludes Resource One linens. Orders filled on first come, first serve basis.

**Begins December 5, 2012. Orders and deposits must be placed by December 30, 2012 at 12PM (noon). Valid on events through March 1, 2013.

Holiday Sale: Silver Bells

Left: Silver Florentine charger, Loren dinner plate, Sophie soup bowl, Floral Elegance flatware, Elise cut crystal glassware served on Silver Floral Lace linen (Resource One, exclusively at P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals). Right: Cut Glass charger, Vera Wang dinner plate, Christofle flatware. All rentals - P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals

Silver bells, it’s Christmas time in the city.

Tabletops dressed in holiday style, in the air there’s a feeling of Christmas. To further celebrate the season of celebration, we’re giving you an early present: 20% off silver tabletop, chairs, and in-house linens on your next order.* ** A shimmering tabletop makes an impressive display for holiday receptions and cocktail parties.  Mix and match from our new Sophie and Loren china collections for a traditional touch or bring in our Artesian flatware for a modern flair.  Whatever you’re planning for the holidays, we’ve got your tabletop covered. 

*Excludes Resource One linens.

**Begins December 5, 2012. Orders and deposits must be placed by December 30, 2012 at 12PM (noon). Valid on events through March 1, 2013.

Toast: Bond - Part 2

Daniel Craig has made a great addition to the 007 family, but it's the Bond girls that strike our fancy. No, we're not talking about the girlfriends, we're talking the powerful ladies behind the latest installment of Skyfall - the regal Judi Dench as M ("Behind every man there is a great woman...") and Adelle as the singer behind the best Bond song, probably ever. To toast these fabulous ladies of the modern Bond, we mixed a little of Diamonds Are Forever with a little On Her Majesty's Secret Service. In other words, a union of royal luxury with classic British style.

Top: Judi Dench as M and Daniel Craig as 007, James Bond in Skyfall.
Tabletop: Cut Glass Charger, Vera Wang Lace Bouquet Dinner Plate, Sophie Soup Bowl, Floral Elegance Flatware, Nu Silk Napkin with Rhinestone Treatment.
POSH Picks: (Clockwise from top left) White Organza with Double Rhinestone Trim, Chiavari Chair; Silver Lace Goblet, Silver Rimmed Water Goblet; Adelle on the cover of the soundtrack for Skyfall; Floral Elegance spoon, Loren Teacup and Saucer.
All rentals POSH Couture Rentals. Linens, chair treatments from Resource One, exclusively at POSH Couture Rentals.

POSH 101: Tea Party

We're excited about sponsoring the Dallas International Art, Antique & Jewelry Show's High Noon Texas Tea this Friday. So excited, in fact, that we thought we would share a few tea party pointers just for fun. It will be the beginning of a great weekend at Dallas Market Hall. The best part? We have several complimentary one day tickets for two for Fall show, this Friday through Monday (November 9-12th). Stop by the showroom to get yours today! Go here for an overview of the 80+ international exhibitors.

Top image via Pinterest / Loren silver tea cup, saucer, and plate / Gold Florentine charger, Gold Scroll Dinner plate and B&B, Gold Leaf salad plate and tea cup, Gold Bead B&B charger, Gold Lyons flatware // All POSH Couture Rentals

 Tea Time Etiquette 

An excerpt from Tea Time Etiquette and the History of Afternoon Tea

• Greeting/handshake
• After sitting down — put purse on lap or behind you against chair back
• Napkin placement — unfold napkin on your lap, if you must leave temporarily place napkin on chair.
• Sugar/lemon — sugar is placed in cup first, then thinly sliced lemon and never milk and lemon together. Milk goes in after tea — much debate over it, but according to Washington School of Protocol, milk goes in last. The habit of putting milk in tea came from the French. “To put milk in your tea before sugar is to cross the path of love, perhaps never to marry.” (Tea superstition)
• The correct order when eating on a tea tray is to eat savories first, scones next and sweets last. We have changed our order somewhat. We like guests to eat the scones first while they are hot, then move to savories, then sweets.
• Scones — split horizontally with knife, curd and cream is placed on plate. Use the knife to put cream/curd on each bite. Eat with fingers neatly.
• Proper placement of spoon — the spoon always goes behind cup, also don’t leave the spoon in the cup.
• Proper holding of cup — do not put your pinky “up”, this is not correct. A guest should look into the teacup when drinking — never over it. Since ancient Rome, a cultured person ate with 3 fingers, a commoner with five. Thus, the birth of the raised pinkie as a sign of elitism. This 3 fingers etiquette rule is still correct when picking up food with the fingers and handling various pieces of flatware. This pinky “up” descended from a misinterpretation of the 3 fingers vs 5 fingers dining etiquette in the 11th century.