It's true that heirloom sets of delicate china are no longer in vogue. Brides aren't putting china on their gift registries, and all those place settings that were hand-washed with care, lovingly displayed and protected are no longer worth much, by and large. But that doesn't mean there isn't a market for certain pieces, namely teacups, silver teapots and spoons, and delicate linens. Here are some ways to use your existing pieces, or create a sweet collection of mismatched pieces that bridge the gap between the past and today's tables.

Do you love wrought iron settees and tables? Or maybe you hanker for a metal glider or rocker like you sat in as a kid at your grandparents home. Even concrete statues and planters from days gone by can add a touch of unique style and grace to your outdoor living space. Here's a quick rundown of what to look for when shopping for vintage outdoor pieces, and how to care for them to prolong their life.

Will the real McCoy please stand up? Or maybe it's Shawnee, or Roseville or even UPCO planters that grab your eye and heart when  you're out hunting through antique stores or estate sales.  Some of us gravitate to a particular color, others are interested in specific figurines, such as birds, lambs, dogs or baby boots. Then as now, these little planters make a great foil for a tender indoor plant. And this time of year, everyone could use a little promise of spring, in the form of a fern or cyclamen or African violet. Tucked in a vintage planter, it's the bees' knees.

It's January, and that historically means "white sales" on linens. There's something to be said for starting the new year with fresh, crisp new bed sheets and soft fluffy towels. But there's also a place in our hearts for vintage linens - from aprons and tea towels, to crocheted doilies and hand-stitched quilts. Often these mainstays come to us with some stains and tears, but they've stood the test of time. Here are some tips for cleaning and refreshing them so they can continue to serve us and the generations that will follow us. 

We know there's still a week until we raise a toast to usher in the new year, but there's no time like the present to consider your goals, intentions and resolutions for 2020.  And we'd love to hear them!