Tablescapes

Churchill in Fairway, designer, Sally Hilkene.

There is a group of women in Kansas City for whom the term “Cowtown” is a point of pride.  The American Royal is an association that promotes excellence in agricultural progress and develops future generations of agricultural leaders. The Royal is a livestock show, rodeo, barbecue contest and parade.  Basically, a two and a half month celebration of the heart and soul of Kansas City.


Designer, Jimmy Shugrue; Pottery by Irma Starr.
The Belles of the American Royal support, through their community service, this Kansas City tradition.  A few years ago they added an event, Tablescapes, to raise funds for youth education programs at the Royal.

Hall’s, Designer, Don Rogers in the Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.  Painting, “Turin” by Franz Kline.
One of my dear and generous friends has invited me to join her at her table.

Pear Tree Design and Antiques, designer Carol Dickey.
And what tables they are.  Dozens of designers work their magic to create wonderful tables you can enjoy – and shop!

Sharyn Blond, Inc., Sharyn Blond designer.
Some of my favorites will be on hand, including Bennett Schneider, La Plates, Hall’s, Pear Tree and Sharyn Blond.

Charlecote, designers Kaye and Todd Miller.
Tickets are still available for this festive event.  The Preview Party is Wednesday, September 17th from 6 – 9.  Enjoy the martini bar and be inspired for a mere $50.  As of today, tables were still available for the luncheon on the 18th; viewing and visiting begin at 10 a.m.  More information is available at the American Royal website.

All images courtesy of Serving Kansas City, Tablescapes and Celebrations by Suzanne Donnelly and Marianne Kilroy, photographer.
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20 thoughts on “Tablescapes

  1. Such a brilliant idea. The top one is my favorite. Was the backdrop painting done for the show?

  2. Oh, this sounds like such fun! I’m so glad you are going to attend. Can’t wait to hear your report of the festivities.

    I love the table by Charlecote. Is that Mottahedeh’s Canton I spy? If so, that’s my everyday pattern, and I never get tired of it. And those monkeys are WONderful.

    Have fun at this event!

    Sheila… who still can’t believe Swanson’s is no longer a KC institution, but glad Halls is

  3. This will be my third year to host a table at Tablescapes. The creativity displayed by the designers is incredibly inspiring – plus it’s a rootin’ tootin’ good time!! I will look forward to meeting you…

  4. Patricia – do check the Irma Starr site – you’ll be inspired by her work. I have seen her create her pottery and it is fascinating. The pieces shown here are charming but atypical of her usual designs.

  5. Cactus – This is my first year and I am really looking forward to it. I’ll be on the look-out for you as well.

  6. Ohhh, sounds like a perfect opportunity to wear the J Crew sequined skirt and cashmere sweater you liked in the fall catalogue- or at least a good excuse to buy it(!)

  7. As always you enlightn the world to the beauty of Kansas City!

    Also must get to Asiatica, it has been much too long since taking a leisurely visit to ooh and ahh it’s wonders.

  8. I love tablescapes, and they are just perfect, thanks for sharing! I also love the shops you showcase in KC, I live just south in Oklahoma and wish I could find such great places here.

  9. I love a beautifully set table! These are to die for! I think my fave is the one set with the blue and white china in the garden. OOH! So very charming and grand!

  10. Oh that will be a treat! Please bring us the details afterwards.

    Sidenote: I’m looking forward to more of your long posts. They are a joy to read.

  11. I’m also looking forward to your report. It will rival the creative tables!! We will all want to hear about your outfit.

    This is like KC’s take on Dining by Design 🙂

  12. Courtney – my OUTFIT? Yikes, that’s a lot of pressure. btw – Dining by Design originated in Kansas City, but this is definitely a fun “go-with.”

  13. To Pamela Terry and Edward:

    The painted panel is actually an 18th century Italian Renaissance purchased by Sally Hilkene, owner and designer of Churchill. The panel hangs on the wall of her beautiful home.
    Mrs. Blandings, you are the best! I love starting my day reading your blog.

  14. Suzanne – thanks for filling us in, I completely forgot to follow up – and thanks for reading as well!

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