Setting the table can seem difficult and rather intimidating at times; when setting the table should really be fun for all…well now it can be. Table setting, over the year, has become a favorite of mine in decorating. As the Holiday’s approach and it becomes time to embellish my table tops, I cannot help but feel disappointed at the everyday common Holiday look. Instead, I want to break away and go on an adventure that will turn Holiday decorating into something fun and creative! And that is exactly what setting the table has become for me. Now as that time of year is soon coming once more I find myself asking…what will I do this time? How will I use what I have and add a bit of a twist to it? These are all simple things to be consider, but whatever I finally decide on, must work with the décor in my dining room.
From year to year, when I return to the attic to pull down my decorations, I forget about all the wonderful things I have stored away the year before. Therefore, I find it exciting and cannot wait to get back into the attic to explore through all the boxes to see what I can find that perhaps has been forgotten or even left behind for a year or two. I love the sensation of discovering the things I cherish that are perfect for creating my theme for dinner with family and friends. Often times what I discover plays a role in determining that theme for me. Not only are these explorations fun and exciting but they can be cost sufficient as well.
Each year I always try to use some of what I already have in my Thanksgiving or Christmas collections and may even move things around from time to time. For example, the decorations that appeared on my living room mantle last year, might show up on the dining room table this year. Sometimes by moving the same decorations around from one room to the next, and using them in a different setting, can make it feel brand new without spending more money.
So after you have gathered your thoughts, ideas, and vision for the table setting it is time to begin the best part of it. However, where exactly do you start? When a client hires me to help them with their seasonal tablescape, we start with what they already have, including the décor of the room itself. Then I begin to set the table and select colors that work with the room we are dining in. (Once again, when scaping for Thanksgiving, I stay away from the traditional colors schemes associated with the holiday.)
Setting the table so people can enjoy it is an important principle I consider when creating my scape. I want my guest to be comfortable and enjoy actually sitting and dining. Therefore, I avoid using pieces that will block the view of the guest across the table. I want my guest to enjoy every part of their evening from the company they are sharing, the food they are eating, and the table their dining at. For that reason, I even take into consideration my guest when choosing the amounts of decoration at my table. For instance, I like to avoid having too much or having to little. The purpose of a tablescape is to not only treat the eye, but, along with the food, set the mood for the evening. From personal experience, your guest will remember if they could not enjoy the company seated just a few feet away.
So consider the following: what type of dinner, brunch, or party are you having? What food will be served? Do you want a casual or formal theme? What color are your walls, drapes, and upholstery in the dining room? It is very important for you to think about these questions. Also how your table is set is determined by what you are serving so pull out your china and gather your thoughts and ideas.
Finally, head to the attic and start exploring! Find your favorites and pull out your treasures that you want most. Are the ideas flowing? They should be! Then, once you have decided your formality of the evening, colors, and theme…start setting the table! Have fun and remember, “There is always room to create!”
From my table to yours,
-Sally Weiler
Setting the table so people can enjoy it is an important principle I consider when creating my scape. I want my guest to be comfortable and enjoy actually sitting and dining. Therefore, I avoid using pieces that will block the view of the guest across the table. I want my guest to enjoy every part of their evening from the company they are sharing, the food they are eating, and the table their dining at. For that reason, I even take into consideration my guest when choosing the amounts of decoration at my table. For instance, I like to avoid having too much or having to little. The purpose of a tablescape is to not only treat the eye, but, along with the food, set the mood for the evening. From personal experience, your guest will remember if they could not enjoy the company seated just a few feet away.
