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Home » DIY

Decorating with sentiment

By Debbiedoo's Team Published: Apr 20, 2011 · Modified: Feb 4, 2025

Have I ever mentioned that family loves to pass down things of sentiment to us?
Between my family and Mike’s family we have many family heirlooms at this point in our lives, and are very lucky indeed to have them.
My FIL’s last visit was no different this time. His car was packed to the gills with more stuff.
The thing is, we get really good stuff.
He gave us this gorgeous tea set from Germany, that was Mike’s Grandmothers.  I thought oh where can I put this beauty?
Well I was able to display some of it. 
I have been Spring cleaning, and did our mantel over.
Our mantel has always been a source of decorating conflict..the clock must stay, and I want it to go!

Why does my husband have to have a say in the matter?

Love decorating with old books too…this tea set is just gorgeous!

Live greenery, I think I can handle keeping it alive, I hope!

Thanks for stopping and by and as always your kind comments..
Have a great night!
Oh and who says tea cups can’t go on a mantel?
I do not follow any decorating guidelines, I do what I like:)
I will be joining:
WOW us Wednesday
DIY Design 
Uncommon slice of Suburbia 
No minimalist here 
Element interiors 
Remodehaholic 
Tatertots and jello
and please mark your calenders for Lucy’s big event…

Diy, thrifty home decor. Painting furniture, crafts, stenciling, burlap projects.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. ℳartina @ Northern Nesting

    April 19, 2011 at 11:30 pm

    Debbie the tea cups are beautiful!! It's always so nice to have family heirlooms. I love the way you displayed them on your mantel! Martina

    PS- Toby can't wait to come to Lucy's party!!

    Reply
  2. Carol

    April 19, 2011 at 11:31 pm

    Those teacups are fantastic! They look great on your mantle too 🙂

    Reply
  3. FLOWERSHOPGURL

    April 19, 2011 at 11:34 pm

    Hi Debbie, Your teacups are perfectly displayed on your mantel, what a nice idea. I love that you don't follow any decorating guidelines, that's what makes you so unique!
    Hugz,
    Kim

    Reply
  4. Pam

    April 19, 2011 at 11:37 pm

    I think the tea cups look fantastic there! And I actually love the clock on the mantel. Back in the day when I had a mantel I think it always had a clock. OK, maybe it is a little traditional?

    Reply
  5. Kim @ Savvy Southern Style

    April 19, 2011 at 11:39 pm

    That is beautiful, Debbie. I love the piece the live plant is in, too. How nice to get such nice heirlooms.

    Reply
  6. Donnie

    April 19, 2011 at 11:41 pm

    What a beautiful set of teacups and saucers. Very ornate. Your mantel is very attractive.

    Reply
  7. ~Lavender Dreamer~

    April 19, 2011 at 11:44 pm

    The tea cups were the first thing that caught my eye! You know….I wonder if I could have a little shelf under my art and pretend it's a mantle! You're helping me think outside the box! Hugs! ♥

    Reply
  8. Allison Nicole

    April 19, 2011 at 11:59 pm

    WOW! Your living room is beautiful! I love the high ceilings! And the carved out space above the mantel is so cool!

    Reply
  9. Olive Cooper

    April 20, 2011 at 12:04 am

    I think the mantle looks fabulous and the tea cups, clock, and old book work for me!

    Reply
  10. Victoria

    April 20, 2011 at 12:11 am

    Those teacups are gorgeous, how nice of your FIL to give them to you!

    Maybe the big clock can be the victim of some sort of accident while your hubby's at work??? Actually, it does look good on there with the high wall:)

    Reply
  11. Lori

    April 20, 2011 at 12:11 am

    What a gorgeous tea set, you are lucky! I get lots of comments when I change the "major" things around.

    Reply
  12. Cherie

    April 20, 2011 at 12:27 am

    I love your mantel and the items you have up there. Always nice to have family heirlooms displayed. I can't wait to go visit my mother so I can get the Vintage Ruby Red glassware set my Grandmother left me. It will be proudly displayed.

    Reply
  13. Ricki Jill Treleaven

    April 20, 2011 at 12:34 am

    Your mantel looks great, Debbie. I was hoping to get a better look at that gorgeous mantel clock! The teacups are so pretty, and I bet there are a few interesting stories about the teacups! It looks special, too. I like that your style is unique, and that you do appreciate all the nice family heirlooms y'all are blessed to have. Lovely post 😀

    xoxoxo,
    Ricki Jill

    Reply
  14. AntiqueChase

    April 20, 2011 at 12:37 am

    I have the EXACT same demitasse tea set that belongs to my grandmother. I wasn't into antiques when she passed, I was only 12 but I thought the tea set was charming so I asked to have it. I don't think she every used it… My has a service for 4 with a teapot sugar and creamer… same pattern with all the gold ornate beauty… My grandparents were from Germany and I have no idea how old the set is… I have mine stashed away in a cabinet. Maybe I should pull it out!! Your tea cups look lovely displayed!

    Reply
  15. Rachel

    April 20, 2011 at 12:38 am

    Your mantle is spectacular, Debbie! Love, love, love that mantle clock! ~Rachel @ The Olde Farmhouse on Windmill Hill

    Reply
  16. AntiqueChase

    April 20, 2011 at 12:39 am

    I'm reading my comment above and see so many typos now..sorry. These bifocal contact clearly suck!

    Reply
  17. Marianne

    April 20, 2011 at 12:41 am

    The tea cups look beautiful on the mantel. Isn't that where they're supposed to be. I have my own decorating rules also..thats what makes everyones home their own! How lucky you are to have so many wonderful family heirlooms!
    Marianne 🙂

    Reply
  18. Pam - diy Design Fanatic

    April 20, 2011 at 12:42 am

    Debbie, your teacups are gorgeous and look great on your mantel!

    Reply
  19. Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage

    April 20, 2011 at 12:46 am

    Those are amazing teacups! So beautiful. They SHOULD be right where they can be noticed!

    Reply
  20. Linda @ A La Carte

    April 20, 2011 at 12:48 am

    Beautiful teacups. I love them on the mantel…I'm like you, I decorate as I like it. Hugs, Linda

    Reply
  21. Jane

    April 20, 2011 at 12:49 am

    I love decorating with sentimental objects too. It makes me happy displaying something that has been passed down through the family. The tea cups are beautiful and look great on your mantel.
    Jane

    Reply
  22. NanaDiana

    April 20, 2011 at 12:53 am

    Love the tea cups on the mantle. I do what I like too! Well, most of the time~ I don't mind the mantle clock at all…and you know you could always off-center it…I am guessing the hubster wants it there? uh-huh…I get that!

    I have a lot of family heirlooms too and love them all…and appreciate that they have been entrusted to my care. I am starting to part with some of them-passing them on to my kids- Hugs- Diana

    Reply
  23. Magpies and Magnolias

    April 20, 2011 at 12:56 am

    I would be more than happy to help you out with the departure of that gorgeous clock!

    The teacups are beautiful and family heirlooms are the best. How wonderful that your FIL is so generous and shares them with you!

    Reply
  24. Piorra Maison

    April 20, 2011 at 1:02 am

    Tea cups.. on the mantel??? what were you thinking? Of course we all do what we want and you have ingenuity and style. that is what makes you unique. keep on sharing. love it.
    a la prochaine.
    Caroline

    Reply
  25. Pat

    April 20, 2011 at 1:04 am

    I love using family pieces with special meaning. I also love something that has a great story, even when it isn't a family piece.

    Your mantel is beautiful.

    Reply
  26. Katherines Corner

    April 20, 2011 at 1:06 am

    This is lovely!I enjoyed my visit to your lovely blog. I hope you'll stop by Katherines corner and enter my giveaway to win a gorgeous dress. Hugs!

    Reply
  27. Glenda/MidSouth

    April 20, 2011 at 1:15 am

    The tea set is beautiful – put it where you want to. I am a firm believer – You live in your home – decorate the way you want to.
    Nuff said !! I have started writing a post on that issue and will finish it one of these days. 😀

    Reply
  28. Karie's Chic Creations

    April 20, 2011 at 1:25 am

    Your mantel looks wonderful. How lucky are you to receive beautiful heirlooms? I am full of envy! Love the beautiful silver tea cups. I am with you, I follow no rules in decorating. As long as it pleases my eye and makes me happy I go with it. Have a wonderful blessed Easter. Hugs, Karie

    Reply
  29. Gina

    April 20, 2011 at 1:27 am

    The tea cups are stunning! Why not display them on the mantel? Front & center for all to see!

    Reply
  30. Gypsy Heart

    April 20, 2011 at 1:44 am

    Yes, the tea cups are gorgeous! I'm so glad you do what you like and don't 'follow' guidelines as far as what "they" say. 🙂 I am the same and the things I have give me great pleasure.

    I do love the clock though. 🙂 My sweet boy is going to the groomer tomorrow so he will definitely attend the party!

    xo
    Pat

    Reply
  31. Laura Wilkerson

    April 20, 2011 at 1:55 am

    Girl you put those tea cups wherever you want too…..they are just beautiful and maybe you should just move the clock somewhere else and not say anything and see how long it takes for him to notice 🙂

    Reply
  32. Ocean Breezes and Country Sneezes

    April 20, 2011 at 2:07 am

    What a beautiful gift! Use them in good health! There's nothing like family heirlooms!

    Reply
  33. Ann from On Sutton Place

    April 20, 2011 at 2:11 am

    I think the books and tea cups are brilliant! Heirlooms go with any decor, in any room. Hope you have a Happy Easter! ~Ann

    Reply
  34. ladychiara

    April 20, 2011 at 2:38 am

    Oh what divine teacups! They look perfect displayed on the mantle. I like your philosophy of putting things where you like. Enjoy your new treasures!

    Reply
  35. At The Picket Fence

    April 20, 2011 at 2:45 am

    What a beautiful tea set! And your mantel looks fantastic…clock and all! 🙂
    Vanessa

    Reply
  36. The Hopeless Romantic

    April 20, 2011 at 2:46 am

    Hi, Im visiting from "Tuesdays Treasures"………LOL, just kidding Debbie. Well i am, but i know i can come chat with u anytime. Ur like an old friend (i dont mean that literlly either, lol)I just wanted to tell u that i love the the teacups on the fireplace. Ur so lucky to inherit such nice heirlooms. You should see some of the things i have been passed down, lol. I generally only put them out if the inlaws are visiting. Shhhh, dont tell. Ya know that might be an awesome idea for one of ur great parties….An "Heirloom" party, whatcha think? Still looking forward to the pet party!…….Bonnie

    Reply
  37. Liz-

    April 20, 2011 at 2:58 am

    Ahh, the tea cups reminded me of the two gold tea cups my mother has. They have also been handed down and she made sure they came out for their 50th Wedding Anniversary! The tea set is neat on the mantle, kind of English looking! Gee your big day is coming up soon! Make sure you get photos of them shooting your room!! Happy Easter Debbie! ~Liz

    Reply
  38. Sue

    April 20, 2011 at 3:04 am

    I think you are very lucky to receive such beautiful things Debbie. The teacups look great on your mantel. And, if you'd like, that clock can come and live on my mantel for awhile ~ love it! 🙂
    Happy Easter
    Sue

    Reply
  39. Shelia

    April 20, 2011 at 3:18 am

    Hi Debbie Dear! First off, if you need to get rid of the clock – send it on down my way! 🙂 Love your mantle and the entire room is so pretty!
    Be a sweetie,
    Shelia 😉

    Reply
  40. Linda

    April 20, 2011 at 3:56 am

    Love your beautiful mantle…and how wonderful to have family pieces!

    Reply
  41. Sherry @ No Minimalist Here

    April 20, 2011 at 4:15 am

    Hi Debbie, The teacups are beautiful and look wonderful on your mantel! Not following decorating rules is what makes your home so special.
    xo,
    Sherry

    Reply
  42. Piorra Maison

    April 20, 2011 at 5:43 am

    When do you sleep Debbie??? Wow do you have energy. What is your secret?
    I can't wait to see your finished HOT bedroom. :))))
    Glad to join the Newbie party.

    Have a good night.
    Caroline

    Reply
  43. Sanlea

    April 20, 2011 at 6:55 am

    Debbie, love the tea cups. They look fanastic on your mantel. Sandy

    Reply
  44. becky

    April 20, 2011 at 9:55 am

    The teacups are a prize to be treasured…they look treasured in your arrangement.

    Reply
  45. Becca

    April 20, 2011 at 11:14 am

    Love the beautiful teacups, Debbie! And, fun how you added them to your mantle, too … awesome pops of gold! *Becca*

    Reply
  46. Cindy

    April 20, 2011 at 11:35 am

    Sweet tea cups and they look great on the mantle 🙂

    Reply
  47. Susan @ Busy at Home

    April 20, 2011 at 12:45 pm

    That's really beautiful! I love getting good surprises from family.

    Reply
  48. laxsupermom

    April 20, 2011 at 12:49 pm

    Love the teacups! And I always love stacked books. Thanks for sharing.

    I'll be hosting my monthly Before Blogging Throwback Thursdays party Tomorrow and would love for you to join me in showing off something from before blogging. Can't wait to see what you bring to the party.

    Reply
  49. d e l i g h t

    April 20, 2011 at 1:14 pm

    Debbie, the house is gorgeous! Our entries at Whassup are next door… I'm #16. I love the title to your post!
    Linda

    Reply
  50. Bluebirds and Butterflies

    April 20, 2011 at 1:22 pm

    Hi Debbie,
    Your home is lovely! I love decorating with things that have special meaning. I collect teacups and sometimes display a few as well. Love the clock, too! Have a "bluebird day" today! xoxo Kim

    Reply
  51. Kris

    April 20, 2011 at 1:50 pm

    I NEVER follow decorating rules. I buy what I like, often times having no idea where I will use it, and then use it however I like. You go girl!

    Reply
  52. ♥ Sonny ♥

    April 20, 2011 at 2:08 pm

    oh wow– those teacups are beautiful and I love how you have them displayed..
    You have such a lovely home..

    xoxoxoxox
    Sonny

    Reply
  53. Debbie

    April 20, 2011 at 3:10 pm

    I'm a big believer in seeing and using the things that are passed down to us. I love those on your mantle!

    Reply
  54. SavannahGranny

    April 20, 2011 at 5:03 pm

    Those tea cups are awesome. Such a treasure and from family too. Love the way you have displayed them. You will so enjoy these. Ginger:)

    Reply
  55. Traci

    April 20, 2011 at 6:44 pm

    The tea set is really pretty. My mom recently gave me part of my great grandmothers china.

    Reply
  56. xinex

    April 20, 2011 at 7:02 pm

    I love the clock, Debbie. Why don't you like it there? Love the cups and your whole vignette…Christine

    Reply
  57. Sue

    April 20, 2011 at 10:30 pm

    IMHO, doing something unexpected is what makes us unique. The tea cups look great on the mantel! I like to do quirky things that make a statement. It's fun to be an "individual." Look out- you're probably starting a new trend! xo Sue

    Reply
  58. Anu@My Dream Canvas

    April 20, 2011 at 11:03 pm

    This is so beautiful. I love heirlooms and am fortunate to have some as well. Hope to see you at My Dream Canvas! Have a great day.

    Reply
  59. Alison @ The Polohouse

    April 20, 2011 at 11:15 pm

    This is so beautiful! I love your teacups on the mantle. I also LOVE the stained window above your mantle! Perfect piece and such a grand statement. Your room is lovely.
    Thanks for sharing, Debbie! I have a house full of family treasures too and they seem to get more and more sentimental to me as the years go by.
    xx
    Alison

    Reply
  60. Daniella

    April 20, 2011 at 11:23 pm

    I love when sentmental things are handed down. It means so much! Your mantel looks awesome!
    xxDaniella

    Reply
  61. linda

    April 20, 2011 at 11:46 pm

    i love the idea of useing the teacups on the mantel they are for sure the prettyest ones i have ever seen you are so blessed to have all these treasures:)

    Reply
  62. vikki

    April 21, 2011 at 2:48 am

    I am a clock lover and have no less than five clocks on my mantle. In fact I scored a neat old clock this past weekend at a yard sale. 150 years old. Love the clock and the old books as well as the tea cups. You have a beautiful house. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  63. Erin

    April 21, 2011 at 11:27 am

    I have always loved your house. So warm, rich and inviting! And I too love decorating with sentiment, you make everything look spectacular!

    Reply
  64. Pam

    April 23, 2011 at 12:29 am

    Love the teacups! Your mantel looks beautiful Debbie!

    Have a Happy Easter!
    Pam

    Reply
  65. Sommer

    April 23, 2011 at 3:38 am

    Oh I am so sentimental about family heirlooms. My family isn't the heriloom type so when my grandmother told me nobody else wanted our families items I jumped. Now I have collections of china, photo's and even some diamond rings that date back to the 1800's. Your mantel is splendid.

    I'd love to have you link this to my VIP party this wekeend. http://designergarden.blogspot.com/2011/04/vip-party-12.html

    Reply

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