Here I am in the middle of preparing a ‘casual’ garden feast using some classic blue and whites – in this case a 203 year old pattern by Spode – the stunning ‘Blue Italian’. I’m firmly of the belief that even the most meagre and solitary of sandwiches deserves to enjoy its last moments languishing in the luxury of a fine china plate. Good pottery is for everyday use – not just for Christmas! You already know me to be a chinaware obsessive – be it brand new or vintage, I am a sucker for a pretty pattern and an elegant design. So when I was approached to be a brand Ambassador for Spode it was a simple decision. British Heritage Brand? Steeped in history? Classic design? It was obviously a match made in heaven. What does being a Spode Brand Ambassador mean? It means that over the next few months I get to introduce you (or in many cases remind you) of the fabulous history and impact that Spode have made on British design. I’ll show you how I use their different ranges for different occasions and hopefully inspire you to give that donut the fine heritage china send off that itdeserves!
So firstly, let’s hear a bit about the background of Spode…
Founded by Josiah Spode in 1770, Spode is a great British brand based in the heart of the Potteries, Stoke-on-Trent…
As a company, Spode proudly combines specialist design and modern manufacturing with their high quality ceramics and traditional values…
In fact Spode‘s contribution to British ceramic heritage is immeasurable, and after centuries, the name is still synonymous with quintessentially British design together with premium quality…
Each one of Spode‘s tableware, serveware and glassware collections has a link between the modern day to create a uniquely classic and timeless feel….
…and that’s exactly why they fit so perfectly into my existing pottery collections, which consists of vintage and new and everything in between.
I’ve actually been collecting Spode Blue Italian for several years. The fun and carnival like vibrancy of the pattern has always made me want to create an outside table setting like this one…
..and with its beautiful large tureens and platters, sculpted lidded vegetable dishes and elegantly footed bowls, the Spode Blue Italian service was definitely made for big, joyous and loud gatherings both formal and informal…
…and of course on this particular occasion, the vibrant colours of sumptuous mediterranean food work beautifully against the pattern too…
..which is why I ended up inviting friends and family for an impromptu celebration in my garden while the weather was still fine enough to guarantee that we could indulge our Italian fantasy into the late hours and continue dining by candlelight!
Of course, the design works perfectly for smaller, more intimate gatherings too, but I find that there’s no greater pleasure than getting a full dinner service out for even the most modest of excuses…don’t you!
Until Next Time,
To go straight to the Blue Italian page on Spode’s website – click HERE.
This post forms part of my paid Ambassadorship of Spode which is part of the Portmeirion Group.