Thoughts on Table Decor

A well-decorated table can help set the mood of the event.  So voila! Some ideas to consider when decorating yours:

• Color comes first. Choose a color scheme-- a main color and one or two pop colors.

• Remember the view. When using a centerpiece, make sure your guests can see each other over the top.

• Mix it up. Don’t get stuck on matching tableware.  Use plates, glassware, and silverware of different ages, patterns and styles. Flea markets are great places to pick up additional sets at decent prices. 

• Theme oriented. If your party has a theme, incorporate it into the table setting.  Is this a sushi party?  Well chopsticks and Asian dishes of course!  Or a luau? Think leis and coconuts. 

• Mood lighting.  Candles create instant elegance and make your guests look their best all the while.  For a more modern look, consider small votives scattered around the table instead of a pair of formal candlesticks.

• Honor the guest. Include photos, collages, and/or written memories in your table setting.

• Consider the place card.  A name can be written on almost anything so think beyond paper to rocks, leaves, fruit, ornaments….Or,

• Picture perfect.  Instead of place cards, consider using photos of the guests.

• Little gifts. Sprinkle small favors around the table that your guests can take home.  Christmas ornaments, colorful candy, costume jewelry…

• Delectable collectibles.  If you or the honored guest collects something specific, incorporate it into the setting.  Think porcelain boxes, figurines, hotel silver…

• Tie it with a bow.  Instead of napkin rings, tie napkins and silverware together with nice ribbon.  Great ribbon can be found at sewing and notions stores.

• Have fun! Recently I attended a party where the host put goldfish in small bowls on each of the tables. Think outside the box and you’ll come up with easy, inexpensive ways to add huge amounts of whimsy to your table.