I just returned home from spending two months in Ohio with my family. Whenever I’m visiting my mom and sister, they want me to style their dining room table for them—and I love doing it. Ever since I was a little girl I’ve enjoyed setting a table. I know a lot of people say the kitchen is the heart of the home, and I love me some time in the kitchen; however, nothing beats gathering around a table. It’s where we enjoy a meal together while catching up about our day, reminiscing about our past, laughing, connecting and just “being” with one another. And while most of the time my family gathers around a bare table, it’s fun to create a space that’s inviting and beautiful. Yet, I know designing a tablescape is daunting to my mom so I figure it must be daunting to others as well. So here I’ve compiled four simple Set-the-Tone Tips for Table Decor. I hope you find the styling ideas useful when setting your table for your next gathering—big or small.
1: Use a Table Runner (or Placemats)
When setting a table I like to either use a table runner or placemats. A table runner helps to “ground” your centerpiece, but it doesn’t have to be cloth. Try using a collection of trays in the same finish. Here I used vintage stamped-aluminum trays. Each tray has the same finish yet have a unique shape and stamped floral design making the table feel both eclectic and also unified. We found the stamped-aluminum trays at thrift shops and antique malls (they are my current thrifting obsession). Their prices ranged from $3 to $12 depending on the size and detail of the design. I love them because they are both very affordable and the designs are very unique and modern. Plus they have a lovely “galvanized” look to them, creating a perfect “farmhouse” feel. You could also use wooden trays, wood cutting boards, slate cheese boards, marble trays, etc. Whatever fits your style and look.
2: Create Visual Triangles
When setting a long table, try varying heights by grouping your items in overlapping “triangles”. Visual triangles create interest and help you visualize an eye-pleasing arrangement. The idea is to arrange your decor so that when you look at it straight on your objects create a visual triangle. Often a “triangle” is created by putting a larger item in the middle flanked by two smaller objects on either side. In this example, the whole table creates one large visual triangle made up of three overlapping visual triangles. The end result is a balanced and visually-pleasing table.
Note: This styling tip is also very useful when styling shelves. I’m sure you’ve heard that things look good in groups of three, well they also look good when you stagger the three heights to create a visual triangle. This strategy will make decorating so much easier, I promise.
3: Buy Neutral Staple Items
I say this a lot, but buying neutral staple items is key to good design. It always you to move pieces from room to room and use items for all seasons. And neutral doesn’t mean boring. It just means you’ll have items that mix-and-match nicely. Look for items in the same color but with different finishes and textures. For example, here I used a collection of cream vases in different sizes and finishes. The vases were collected over time yet they all go together. The larger ones were from Pottery Barn over 20+ years ago and the smaller ones were a collection from Oriental Trading. I also always like white plates and napkins.
4: Add Seasonal Touches
Most often the seasonal touches on my tablescapes are flowers. Flowers (both fresh or faux) are easy to switch out for the season and really create the “personality” of your table. Here I used faux flowers that reminded me of the wildflowers blooming in Ohio in the summer. Come fall, my mom could easily replace the blue flowers with orange and add a few pumpkins and she’ll have a fresh fall look without having to change everything.
And have fun with it! When serving dessert, add seasonal touches using party decor items like these cute flamingo cupcake toppers.
Now I know this doesn’t address all your table decor needs, but hopefully, these four basic tips can help you tackle your next table with confidence. And please, if you have any questions—ask away in the comments below. I will be sure to provide you with my thoughts and you might even inspire me on how to write my next “Set-the-Tone Tips” article.
