How to Style the Perfect Tablescape
If there’s one thing I love most about event planning, it’s designing a tablescape, setting the table, then watching others break bread at a beautifully set table. Whether you’re planning a wedding, baby shower or hosting a dinner party at home, I have seven tips and tricks for you to design and style the perfect tablescape to make your celebration unforgettable.
Pick Your Color Palette
Choose a theme or color story central to your event. For Easter brunch, you may opt towards pastels, whereas for a baby shower welcoming a sweet boy, you may be partial to light blues and creams. Whatever theme or color scheme you choose, stick with it and maintain consistency.
Choose Furnishings
Once you’ve landed a theme, choose a table(s) and chairs. You may have the perfect table and chairs at home, but if not, rentals to the rescue! Milieu Decor is my go-to resource for curated, unique rentals. You can find everything from Parisian-style bistro chairs to gorgeous farm tables. Desiree of Milieu is always on the hunt for new treasures that are sure to make your celebration one-of-a-kind!
Source Tabletop Items
Now that you have a theme to guide you and furnishings as your focal point, it’s time to source tabletop items. First, identify the perfect linen. Stradley Davidson boasts a unique selection of specialty linens that are fit to set a table for a king. Choose a linen rooted in your color story with a pattern fit with your theme.
As a true southern girl, I have unending amounts of antique fine china, sterling silver and crystal. I love finding ways to incorporate these heirloom details into my tablescapes. When I’m looking for a classically modern look, I immediately go to Tablemade. Not only do they have the most gorgeous selection of plates, flatware, candle holders and glassware, but the quality is unbeatable. Each item is meticulously cleaned and shined prior to your rental, ensuring easy set-up for your table!
Bring in Blooms
What’s a table without flowers? In my opinion, a beautifully designed floral centerpiece is what makes or breaks your tablescape. Loose, organic arrangements filled with seasonal blooms and local greenery are my absolute favorite. I love partnering with floral designers who bring in unique vessels to make their arrangements truly stand out. Nicole of Vine & Olive Design does just that. She’s always dreaming up a new floral arrangement!
Add Details
Sometimes, less is more. You may find that you’ve perfectly executed your theme with a single, large floral arrangement. Or, you may need to add details, such as votive candles or taper candles. Yummi Candles has the most gorgeous selection of taper candles in any color you can imagine. Pair them with gold candleholders from Milieu Decor or Tablemade, and your design is chef’s kiss!
Set the Table
Now that you’ve sourced furnishings, tabletop items, floral arrangements and details, you’re ready to set the table! I love listening to music while I set the table. Most of your work is done, and you’re just moments away from seeing your guests’ faces light up when they see your gorgeous work.
Pop the Bubbly!
The time has arrived! The table is set, the wine is poured, and it’s time to serve your guests! There’s truly nothing more special than watching your guests enjoy the fruit of your labor, smiling and laughing over a delicious meal. Now it’s your turn to pop the bubbly and toast to a beautifully set table!
