Why You Might Want To Stop Buying Seasonal Dishware For Every Holiday
There's nothing like breaking out florals and pastels for spring, pumpkins for fall, and tinsel and garland for a cozy winter. Decorating with the changing seasons keeps a home feeling fresh, fun, and welcoming. But, while some seasonal décor can lead to a cleaner, clutter-free home when done well, you'll find that too much of a good thing can leave your home feeling congested and pressed for storage space. This is the case with seasonal dishware. While it's not a massive investment to get a full set for each season, you may want to stop buying seasonal dishes for every holiday. Instead, we recommend investing in one quality set that you can use year-round. This is a great way to free up some space — both in your home and your decorating budget.
Interior designer Rajyasri Ghosh also recommends avoiding buying seasonal dishes for every holiday. "I don't buy seasonal dinnerware anymore (unless it's a good vintage) and only those pieces that can be used all year round ... The bonus part [is] there's no need for a lot of extra storage," she noted on Instagram. Ghosh is right. With a set of dishes for six averaging about 18 pieces per set, you'll save on storage space for around 72 dishes, plates, and bowls if you ditch four seasonal sets. Thankfully, there are lots of alternatives to help you make your table look splendid across the seasons, including centerpieces, runners, and a set of quality dinnerware.
What to do instead of buying seasonal dishes
We recommend investing in one quality set of dishware that'll elevate the look of your kitchen. Pick something you can use year-round. Although florals are typically spring and summer décor, Rajyasri Ghosh uses subtle white dishware and toile mugs with dark blue florals and botanical prints year-round. She shares, "Actually when used in smaller areas and paired with other solid colors of the season these can look really beautiful in any season and give a nice contrast to the whole setup." Consider investing in quality ceramics that are durable, well-made, and come in a versatile color or pattern. While white is simple and timeless, solid earthy colors are aesthetically pleasing, warm, and welcoming year-round. Getting custom dinnerware sets, such as made-to-order stoneware or sets stamped with personalized lettering, is also an impressive way to make your dinner table experience one-of-a-kind.
And, if you still want your set-up to sing for seasonal dinners and celebrations, we recommend taking inspiration from Ghosh's dining table by decorating with unique seasonal centerpieces and florals, and other accent pieces like colored table runners, napkins, and candelabras. Consider adding herbs and spices like lavender in spring, and cinnamon in the winter. This winning combo is a way to engage the senses with textures, scents, and visuals. Plus, it provides a way to decorate for a season without taking up any space, or creating more dreaded storage clutter.