Silver settings

Southern Living, Nov 2000 by Griffin, Eleanor

holidays." The secret is to avoid feeling as if you have to bring out every piece you own. Think casual. Just as a string of pearls or a good watch dresses up a casual outfit, adding a piece of silver enhances even the most informal setting.

Silver is also a wonderful way to keep a family memory alive or to remember a special event. "I love to mix up odd pieces of silver," says Lee Stough, a Louisville interior designer. "John and I have a lot of silver from both of our families, our wedding, and our children's christenings, and incorporating a piece for everyday display always reminds me of the giver or a happy occasion.

"Most of our entertaining is informal, but I always use some silver," she says. "We have a lot of julep cups, and I like to use them as water glasses, even if the menu is casual. The prettiest silver has a patina as it's been used and used. It's so lovely and always reminds me of family," Lee adds.

Silver is a wonderful memory maker for Southerners. You may remember the gravy boat that is always brought out on Thanksgiving or the sip of your first mint julep in a real julep cup. Whether you enjoy bringing out a piece that's been passed down through your family or you're just starting a collection, silver makes an indelible memory that travels from one generation to the next. It doesn't matter if you make it formal or informal just make it yours.

LEARN FROM LEE

* The secret of a good room is to have something black, something very comfortable, and something unexpected. Silver is a wonderful unexpected item.

* Even if your entertaining is informal, add at least a silver serving spoon or accessory.

* Use silver in unconventional ways. Stilton cheese and marrow scoops make interesting, unusual bar servers. A child's baby cup is great for accessories or as a vase with a single seasonal bloom.

* Don't be afraid to mix your good silver with cheaper reproduction or plated pieces. And use local silver shops or specialists to fill out sets or replace missing pieces.

* Put flowers in florist water picks, and place them in tea caddies or silver boxes around the house.

* As an alternative to matched glasses when entertaining, use a variety of julep cups and glassware in unusual shapes and colors. Look for cups and glasses in different heights to add interest to your table.

where to find it

Pages 78-81: Interior design by Lee Stough, senior designer, Ewald Associates, 4868 Brownsboro Center, Louisville, KY 40207, (502) 896-1479; flowers by Joy Doyle and Mary Hazelip, Simply Flowers, 3620 Brownsboro Road, Louisville, KY 40207, (502) 895-3597; antique reproduction and silver polishing by Isaacs & Isaacs, 3937 Chenoweth Square, Louisville, KY 40207, (502)897-2232.