I love beautiful glassware. I find myself drawn to it when shopping, and so often find that the enticement of a new piece has me thinking of ways to add it to my collection.

Some of the things I enjoy about glassware is its variety of uses. I keep decorative decanters on bedside tables. I have glass candy dishes, candle holders, soap dishes, serving dishes, wine decanters, etc.

Another thing I love about glassware is its timelessness. In this collection I have antiques from my grandmothers, antique reproductions from gift shops, and modern pieces thrown in for fun.

  I rarely buy my glasses in sets, and if I do I never buy more than six. I used to want everything to match years ago, but now I believe that decorating and entertaining is much more fun when there is variety. So, I buy my glasses in pairs. I love giving each person their own unique glass to use, and often it will begin a conversation of where the glasses were purchased or of the memories attached to them.

  I also like to find unusual uses for items. One of my favorites at the moment is this antique shrimp cocktail dish. The bottom of the dish is intended to hold ice for the shrimp being served above. I think it’s fun to place different seasonal items in the bottom and a votive in the top. I just don’t serve shrimp cocktail that often, and if I do the dishes are always handy.

I’m quite sure I have only begun the list of things for which beautiful glassware can be used. I would love it if you would add your thoughts, as I am always looking for new ideas . . . so, what’s your favorite glass piece and how do you use it?