Want to learn how to be a Happy Hostess and a Gracious Guest™? Watch my Instagram LIVE as I share tips on how to style your table for a colorful Spring gathering using my “layering” technique!
When I design tablescapes, I work in “Layers.” What do I mean by that? Disclaimer… I LOVE florals, patterns, and lots of texture! I mix and match patterns with solids throughout the whole tablescape design. For example, starting with the linen selections. In my Instagram LIVE, I start by layering a solid, light blue, crinkle, taffeta linen and layer a peonies floral print square linen on top. This creates my first layer and it sets the tone for the overall tablescape design.
The next layer includes the placemat and charger. This is a great opportunity to mix your prints or stick with a solid color. I like mixing patterns, so I chose a pretty blue gingham placemat and paired it with a jute charger, introducing my first element of texture to the tablescape. The combination of a gingham pattern and jute texture brings in the elements of Spring and even Summer.
Next, I always select my dinnerware based on my event theme, and I start the layering process over again. In the Instagram LIVE, I show my audience two dinner and salad plate selections
- My Grandmother’s Billingsley Rose China pattern
- Williams Sonoma Lemon, Bees, and Honeycomb plates
After I have my place setting together, I start to add in layers of décor details on the table. The place setting will help guide me to make my centerpiece and detail décor selections such as linen napkins or paper napkins, non-scented or flameless candles, floral, place cards, etc.
What don’t I put on the table?
If you are planning to add cocktails or mocktails to your event, consider utilizing a mobile bar cart to save space on your dinner table. Simply add a table runner that matches the linens on your table such as the gingham placemats. I like to creating small spaces through out my home, especially for serving specialty cocktails and appetizers. A mobile bar cart is an excellent way to maximize small spaces.