In the hills of rural Sri Lanka, my grandparents’ home was my childhood haven. With its humble rooms and large living areas boasting terracotta floors that added depth and warmth, lace curtains, and brass ornaments I kept the humble abode stunningly alive. I always ended up in Grandma’s storage room or the attic, poring over her collectibles. I would hide with a stack of old papers or my uncle’s novels, accompanied by a lamp. There was no electricity. I still remember my snack plate was adorned with a blue ditsy floral pattern beside me as I read. I felt safe and nurtured. Even now, I cherish vintage dishes with colorful, dainty designs that evoke these childhood memories. What I love the most is how this particular memory can transform stressful work hours into a slower-paced existence that feels safe and nurturing.
I own a stack of chipped vintage dishes I bought from an antique store for a dollar each. Additionally, I have collected wooden bowls and baskets from Sri Lanka, candlesticks made in the 1800s, and handmade placemats with dainty embroidery. All these items have irregularities often overlooked as damage or flaws; however, these characteristics add so much to my dinner table. I use Amma’s cotton saris as tablecloths. A chipped bowl, a wonky handle, or an unmatched dish may appear like an amateurish display on my table, but they all contribute a certain naivety. It’s a piece of my childlike heart that has never changed.
When I entertain modestly made objects, I appreciate the quirkiness and memories each piece holds. I have treasured my collected items for years, and have also taught people how to value and repurpose what they have. When building a collection of dishes for entertaining, consider using items you have cherished for years. There are no rules for what it should look like; it should be affordable and reflect a way of life. Mixing and matching different patterns and styles can create a visually captivating tablescape that sparks conversation and intrigue among guests. Arranging these dishes thoughtfully, perhaps incorporating vintage silverware or linen napkins, transforms a meal into a memorable dining experience.
I am big on using family heirlooms. Whether it’s a delicate teacup from a grandmother, a rustic serving platter gifted by a friend, or a set of hand-painted plates inherited from an aunt, these items not only beautify the table but also create a connection to loved ones and cherished moments. Each piece carries a story, a memory, and a sense of heritage that enriches the dining experience. Incorporating these heirloom dishes into gatherings adds a personal and nostalgic dimension, making every meal shared with guests feel special and memorable.
It’s not just about food; it’s about celebrating a life well-lived. It’s about building your home around warmth, memories, and traditions, and sharing what you have with others. I work with wealthy clients who can buy the best and newest of anything without hesitation. However, when I come home, I find comfort in grandma’s handmade cushions, mom’s wooden spoons and plates, and my sister’s embroidery on a bedspread. When I sit down for a meal, I am surrounded by well-loved objects passed down to me by a friend or a family member. They are more than just objects; they are vessels of nostalgia, evoking laughter, tears, and everything in between. In a world often fixated on the shiny and new, these treasures remind us of who we are and where we come from, grounding us in a sense of continuity and identity.
By Udenie Wickramasinghe – Miami, Florida
