Tablescape Tips - Part 1

I wanted to share some tips for setting your Spring tablescape. I love to entertain this time of year- the flower options are endless, nicer weather is inviting us outside, and the produce aisles are brimming with enticing fruits and veggies. During and after college I worked as a floral designer and we accommodated a variety of budgets for weddings and parties. To this day I utilize those skills for our own parties and love to help friends and clients entertain on a budget. Over the next couple of weeks I will share some of my top tips for setting your table, whether you have a large or a little budget. Spring has sprung so let's have fun!

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Tip #1

Use what you have... Seems obvious but sometimes we get stuck in a rut and use the same old combinations of dishes and linens. Mix it up! Layer your existing plates with a fun accent plate. If you have more than one set of dishes try mixing them up, layering a salad plate from one collection on top of a dinner plate from the other. If you only have one set of plates but have some fun tea cups or small bowls (dessert for instance) layer them on top of your plates and fill them with candy, a small plant or mini bouquet, or some fun appetizer or snack. Experiment and have fun!

Tip #2

Thrift it. Don't assume you need to make expensive purchases to liven up your dinner table. I love swinging by the thrift store every now and again and have picked up everything from pieces of rose medallion to crystal stemware to Spode china, all for a fraction of what you would pay for buying new or pieces found at antique stores. I also love to mix and match. Found a pretty floral plate but there's only one? That's ok- using a variety of patterns makes for a fun and festive table. Pick a theme or color scheme and make sure to keep pics on your phone so you can stay on track if you come across something wonderful next time you're out.

Tip #3

Use a fun tablecloth. I love using colorful tablecloths to use with my simple china. You can find vintage tablecloths for very reasonable prices on websites like Etsy. I also have a soft spot for anything by April Cornell and you can find those tablecloths for $45 or less. Also check out sites like Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma for great sales on seasonal merchandise. A pretty tablecloth can breathe new life into your table setting!

Stay tuned for more tips in an upcoming blog post!