This week brings together so many parts of what I do and love. As well as the table styling, I hosted an 'in conversation' with renowned floral designer Neill Strain and Dr Olivia Chappell, founder of Horatio's Garden, Belgravia in Bloom's charity partner and winner of Best in Show at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2023.
With the blue Peony Bloom tablecloth and the hotel's marigold parasols as backdrop, Neill created a delicious springtime centrepiece including peonies, guelder roses, nigella and - a new personal favourite for me - oncidium orchids. Thank you so much to Neill, Jennifer and team - it was so exciting to see your creative interpretation!
- Description
- Care
- Composition
A light blue tablecloth with a new peony print. Inspired by the floral frescoes of Samode Palace (pictured) and the unfurling petals of the Duchesse De Nemours peony, Rosanna drew the print by hand. This design was then traced, cut into teak wood and block printed by the talented artisans with whom she works in Jaipur. The tablecloth is finished with a 4-inch ruffle hem.
Printed by hand, no two tablecloths are ever quite the same. Block printing is a technique handed down from generation to generation, whether it is the deft, delicate touch required to carve the motifs from teak or pear wood, or the light, exact tap used to stamp onto fabric.
Matching napkins available.
Pictured: 290cm standard size but note the front has been pulled low to the floor for the purpose of the photo shoot.
Sold in three sizes:
190cm x 290cm
200cm x 400cm
240cm diameter round
With thanks to the team Samode Palace for the shoot location.
Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle. Do not bleach. For air drying, please avoid direct sunlight. To tumble drying, please use a low heat. The product can be ironed on a low setting and dry cleaned. Full care guidelines here.
100% Indian cotton
I hand-painted the place cards and menus with peonies to match. After sharing plates and Silent Pool Gin & tonics, I interviewed Olivia and Neill about how gardens and floristry can elevate our mood and wellbeing - from the vibrant sanctuaries at the heart of NHS spinal care centres that Horatio's Garden spearheads to the joyful installations seen around Belgravia this week - three of which are designed by Neill.
Then there was lime and matcha cheesecake that I urge you all to race to The Buttery to try!
Thank you to everyone who came; your sunshine vibe kept us dry from the rain.
Credits
Dress: Beulah
Flowers (and vases): Neill Strain
Photography: Georgia Meramo
Peony Bloom
The Journal
Block Printed Bed Quilts
A new addition for winter: hand-block printed and hand-quilted bedding exclusive to RF.
Green Garden Tablescape
Tonal greens and crisp whites combine in this tablescape of fruit and flowers.
Jaipur Tips
A selection of itineraries, guides and articles Rosanna has written about the Pink City and Rajasthan.
Indigo Blue Tablescape
A monotone blue tablescape at the painted haveli of Deeppura Garh in Rajasthan, India.