Whether you are planning a simple dinner party, a wedding or some other event, in addition to dressing yourself, you may also want to dress your table for the occasion. To make an elegant statement in your room, think about layering the table the same way you would layer your outfit, starting from the undergarments on out to the clothing, jewelry and other finishing touches. For instance, when I have company over for dinner, I usually choose a simple but nice quality golden yellow or burgundy cloth as the underpinning of my table setting. Then I layer this with an antique lace tablecloth or a rich embroidered runner, or perhaps even a sheer piece of fabric. Any of these options will give more texture and color, as well as add more interest to the look. Sometimes I also use pretty fabric placemats, which I can often pick up for a few dollars when my local home goods stores have end of season clearance sales. If I really want to go all out, silver or gold chargers are a dressy extra step I use once in a great while to frame each plate. For napkins, it depends on my mood. I might select cloth napkins that match the under tablecloth. This helps provide cohesiveness to the overall look. Or, napkins in a contrasting color, such a bright green or deep red on top of the gold tablecloth with the cream lace covering can make things more playful. Then for dishes, I select either simple cream-colored china pieces, which look good against patterns, or if I keep my fabrics simple, I will often mix different vintage flowered plates in various styles and colors. This makes the formal style feel more relaxed. I also like to show off my antique silver and silver-plated serving pieces and trays, which I collect from local consignment shops and antique stores. To me these special pieces are like jewelry for the table! Finally, bunches of fresh flowers, or even silk ones, in small silver or glass vases that are low enough not to hamper conversation, can be the perfect finishing touch. It’s fun to dress the table, or multiple tables if you are planning a larger event, and your guests will enjoy the pretty and creative setting you create.
Tags: wedding decoration, wedding tables, table dressing, table setting
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