I learned about MacKenzie-Childs (husband and wife duo!) when working for Williams-Sonoma in my twenties. It was so fun seeing the new items each season, particularly around Christmas.
In 1995, MacKenzie-Childs launched a collection of hand-painted enamelware fondly referred to as Roasted Marshmallow, which featured a new twist on the black and white check pattern we have come to know and love.
The pattern was originally part of the Camp MacKenzie-Childs collection, designed for casual outdoor use and glamping, but they soon discovered it was also great layered into their unique point of view on formal place settings. The deliberate but spontaneous use of additional colors dragged through each check made it highly unique and no two pieces were ever alike. The caramel-like amber tones pulled through the creamy white and black checks was reminiscent of the look of marshmallows perfectly toasted over an open fire. A few years later, an editor referred to MacKenzie-Childs as “the court jester of tabletop,” and upon that comment, Roasted Marshmallow was renamed more appropriately as Courtly Check.
From plates to planters, teapots to tureens, MacKenzie-Childs designs are alive with individuality. Each piece created by their artisans holds the surprise and joy of the unexpected. Layer upon layer of artistry applied by hand to every inch of surface is their hallmark, and it’s what makes every MacKenzie-Childs creation an original. Each handcrafted piece has a unique signature of its own and no two pieces are identical; An artisan’s stamp or mark shows his or her contribution to each piece.
Their seasonal collections evoke the same whimsical, fairytale-like wonder and their Christmas collection is no exception. Each year Mackenzie-Childs and their artisans introduce 30-40 new collectible hand-blown ornament designs and while these collections are considered investment pieces, they remain classic year after year so your growing personal collection will never go out of style!
I’ve hand selected a few of my favourite pieces from the 2021 Mackenzie-Childs Holiday Collection at Bloomingdales below.
1. MacKenzie-Childs Nativity Scene | 2. MacKenzie-Childs Tea Pot Stocking Holder 3. MacKenzie-Childs Gold Sparkle Trees | 4. MacKenzie-Childs Nutcracker Cookie Jar | 5. MacKenzie-Childs Santa Snow Globe | 6. MacKenzie-Childs Souvenir Suitcase Glass Ornament | 7. MacKenzie-Childs Candy Cottage | 8. MacKenzie-Childs Candy Cake Stand
Do you have any Mackenzie-Childs pieces in your home? When did you start collecting?
I’d love to hear more below!
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