When I was a kid, my favorite Aunt owned a china shop. There is a story that she would let me roller stake in the store… I’m not really sure if it’s true. Needless to say, I got my love of dishes early. I love to set the table – I honestly look at it as a treat. So, when we were thinking of a way to welcome people into our building – an event that featured tablescapes came up – and I was all the way in.

Textures are a must when setting a table, and here swoon worthy textiles are layered liberally. We used an upholstered table to start and then stacked up the patterns with floral napkins and glazed dishes in rich shades of green. Raspberry flowers and bone candlestick holders seal the deal. Is there anything that macaroons don’t improve the look of?  Put the desert out first- it’s often the most beautiful. How about a lamp on the table?  Surprise!

Swoon worthy textiles

Spring Fever is always relevant and who wouldn’t fawn over these bamboo classics. For interest and depth, I set the china up on charcuterie boards. A bounty of green hydrangeas play on shades of green in the dish ware. Petite violets add drama and interest while the little terracotta pots keep things from feeling too serious. I used art cards as contrast and something pretty to woo over while awaiting lunch.

Blue and white forever! White dish ware must be a staple. Whatever you’re serving becomes the star when the base layer is white. But do doll up the surroundings. I think of navy as a neutral – and if you let me, I will sneak blue into your home. Blue cachepots filled with rosemary topiaries set the tone here. The rest came together with woven placemats and stunning gold flatware.

White dish ware must be a staple. Whatever you’re serving becomes the star when the base layer is white.

We’re coming on fall and it’s just as exciting as ever to entertain outside.  Sure, melamine is practical – but just bring your dishes outside. Make it fancy – make it fussy – it creates such a special effect when you go the extra mile, even just for burgers on the grill.  Should I mention blue and white again?  Obviously use blue and white again! It’s always a win and looks great with every accent color.

Make it fancy – make it fussy – it creates such a special effect when you go the extra mile, even just for burgers on the grill.

Flowers are mighty when setting a table of course. However, here in this rustic scene, we used food to communicate our theme. Blue corn chips and crusty seedy ciabatta anchor the table. Black and crème glazed dish ware with bubble glasses and a simple fern accent pair well.  The final thought – a little edgy.

Flowers are mighty when setting a table of course. However, here in this rustic scene, we used food to communicate our theme

Brunch? Yes.  Please and don’t forget the rosé. Simple but oh so elegant with the sweet smell of peonies filling the table. Mixing & matching dishes, patterns, napkins … all to create the most welcoming and romantic effect.   The simple key here was to use monochromatic colors for a very relaxing effect.

Mixing & matching dishes, patterns, napkins … all to create the most welcoming and romantic effect.

Fuss! Try things different ways while you are at it. I often buy flowers or plants to use one way but end up with an entirely different look after trying and fussing with anything and everything I have at my disposal. Don’t limit yourself to just the average things for tables either. Use your art, jewelry, baubles, and containers to create a scene. Light candles and enjoy.

Cheers!