With the beginning of the lunar new year comes a much awaited celebration with family and friends–a time to be grateful for the year that passed, a time to cherish one another, and a time to make way for what is to come. Opening the Year of the Pig in style is definitely how we’d like to kick-start 2019, so we’re sharing with you this beautiful Chinese New Year feast styled by renowned destination wedding planner and stylist, Joy Proctor. Here’s a bonus for all of you: we included the recipes for the delicious dishes featured in this post! Read on to see Joy created this beautiful table spread for a cozy home dinner celebration for the new year.
China and crystal from Joy’s cabinet, fruit and citrus, and beautifully arranged flowers by Heather of Myrtle et Olive in colors corresponding to luck and happiness were used for an elegantly festive table setting. She used a delictae palette in shades of red, pink, purple and orange, which are known to be lucky colors. Likewise, the overflowing bowls of citrus symbolize luck and add a pop of color to the whole scene!
Don’t forget envelopes of money for good luck! The envelopes are often red or gold and traditionally list the families name on the outside.
One way to invite guests to get into the spirit is by offering them hand embroidered fans to accessorize. Joy sourced fans by Luneville, which were exquisitely designed. This added detail sparked conversation on the history of embroidery, which began in China and made its way to Europe much later. A celebration is also not complete without delicate sweets that guests can take home. For Joy’s dinner celebration, she gave guests gorgeous year of the pig and florals cookies by Cake by Nicole.