Into the Cabinets: The Tableware That Makes Me Smile

It’s the little things that bring me the most joy at home, and one of those things is my collection of decorative dishes. When I got married years ago, I registered for plain white tableware—a choice I still love today. I wanted something classic and versatile so I could mix in bowls and plates with more character. My white tableware has stood the test of time, while my decorative pieces tend to rotate—either because I’ve fallen out of love with them or because they’ve been loved a little too much (and broken!).

Here are a few of my favorite bowls, plates, and mugs that make me happy every time I use them.

I bought these bowls from Anthropologie last fall, and I love them. One of my favorite things about visiting Anthropologie in different cities is that each location seems to have a slightly different collection of home goods. My old Anthro bowls had to be tossed after years of use, so these were the perfect replacements. Two of them have more of a fall/winter feel, while the other two feel like spring/summer. Lately, I’ve been especially loving the purple one on the bottom left.

My collection of plates from Anthropologie has been with me for years. It’s funny—whenever we use them for family dinner, we all get a little protective over which one we get. My oldest daughter always claims the Eiffel Tower plate, my beach-loving daughter picks the octopus, and I’m happy with either the owl or the mushroom.

These two dinner plates were a gift from a dear friend, and I especially love eating off my rabbit plate. My husband, however, refuses to eat off the owl plate—I’ve tried, but every time I set it out for him, he swaps it for a plain one from the cabinet.

And then there’s my favorite mug. Originally, I bought it for my daughter to hold her toothbrush and toothpaste in her bathroom, but a few months ago, she moved it into our coffee mug cabinet. Now, it’s my go-to coffee cup each morning. I used to have another favorite, but it broke—so now I just hope I can be careful enough to keep this one intact.

Do you have a favorite plate, bowl, or glass that brings you joy? I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below or send me a snapshot. And if you don’t have any tableware that makes you happy, I suggest treating yourself to at least one pretty plate or bowl next time you’re out shopping (or scrolling online). It’s a simple little thing, but it really does bring a lot of joy to my home.

Happy feasting!