It has been 18 years since The China Cabinet was first established and I can’t believe how quickly those years have gone by. I’d like to say a big thank you, to all of you, my lovely customers, who make this business possible. I’ve always said I’ve got the best job ever. I always meet nice people doing nice things.

What are some of the events I have supplied to over the past couple of months?

One request came for china for an afternoon tea party at a retirement village, followed by another retirement village celebrating a special anniversary. Then came a request for silverware for a photo shoot at the stunning Larnach Castle in Dunedin. Two baby shower events followed, then china for an office shout morning tea, then a booking for silver candlesticks and candelabra’s for a wedding in Queenstown. A 60th birthday celebration saw the silver urns and trays being used (pictures below). A 90th birthday luncheon had the china plates, side plates, cups & saucers and tiered cake plates out.

Indulging my passion

A request for a large amount of silverware, suitable for a huge banquet event, allowed me to indulge my passion for trawling the op shops for suitable pieces to add to those I already had. Let me tell you, there are some gorgeous pieces of silver out there, unloved and just waiting to be polished and given new life. I like to think I’m doing my bit for recycling and reusing.

Brass candlesticks, crystal vases and napkins went to a wedding on Banks Peninsula and silver candlesticks, crystal vases and cake stands went to another here in Christchurch. The china teacups made an appearance once again at Frocktails Christchurch (pictures below). An event where attendees dress up in a ‘me made’ outfit. If you google Frocktail events, you’ll see they’re held worldwide. Preparations are also in hand for a display at the upcoming Bloom Bridal Show at The Tannery in August and the Hats and High Tea charity event at The George In October.

What’s next?

My husband, who many of you have met as my part time helper, has finally retired and we are taking a long awaited holiday overseas. We are travelling to Europe and the UK and as this will be for a period of 3 months, I’ve decided The China Cabinet will be closed from July 15th until the end of October, but I’ll be back and excited to continue after that.