The perfect Tablescape

[dropcap]H[/dropcap]ave you eyed up gorgeous tablescapes and beautiful place settings just wishing you knew where to start when it comes to creating them? Whether it’s a family get together, a birthday party, or a dinner party – the secret to a perfect tablescape is easier than you think.

❝ A superb tablescape is both functional and fabulous.❞ 

A superb tablescape is both functional and fabulous. You first establish the practical elements you need it to have then you’ll be able to add decor and accessories for a beautiful and stylish look. This gives you a balance between making sure your table flows and works well in addition to being a gorgeous place to have a meal.

We'll break down each part of the Function + Fabulous formula to show you how to create your very own perfect tablescape. (Psst...grab the free guide HERE) 

The function

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]hinking about the function your table needs to have will help you pick the essential dining pieces your tablescape needs t0 make it work for your dinner or get together. Your tablescape can’t just be gorgeous, it needs to include all the different elements your guests might need to enjoy their dinner in a way that is comfortable as well as aesthetically pleasing.

How do you establish the function of your tablescape?

The pieces you choose to incorporate into your tablescape are dictated by one thing: what is being served. The menu should dictate the place setting. Start with the dishes being served and then work backward to decide what elements your table needs.

There are 4 categories to work through  –  China, Flatware, Glassware, and Linen. You’ll want to include only the necessary elements, especially if your table is small. Check out the place setting guide below if you need a little etiquette refresher for what goes where when setting the table. Pro tip: Screenshot or pin for later

Here's a checklist you can use as a little cheat sheet to make sure you've included all the necessary elements. Remember, not all the elements will be essential for your event or get together. Keep function and the menu in mind as you review this list.

[checklist-box title="Essential Dining Pieces" extraTitle="" extraUrl=""]

CHINA

• Dinner Plate
• Salad Plate
• Bread & Butter Plate
• Soup Bowl
• Charger

FLATWARE

• Dinner Fork
• Dinner Knife
• Salad Fork
• Salad Knife
• Bread & Butter Knife
• Soup Spoon
• Dessert Spoon or Cake Fork

GLASSWARE

• Water Goblet
• Red and/or white wine glass(es)
• Champagne Flute

LINEN

• Napkin

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The fabulous

Setting the table is a form of art – showcase a little of your creativity and add personal touches to make your guests feel special. If you don’t know where to start, here’s a short and sweet step-by-step to guide you through it:

[dropcap]1[/dropcap] Find your style

A girl needs a little inspo to dream up a fabulous table. Pin images that fit your color palette and aesthetic and start to collect ideas about what you want your tablescape to look like.

Don’t just think about colors and what “looks good,” consider the story you’d like to tell or the feelings you’d like to convey to your guests. What types of things can contribute to the look and feel you’re trying to achieve?

[dropcap]2[/dropcap] Choose your Centerpiece

Floral centerpieces are the traditional go-to, but they aren’t your only choice. Play around with non-floral features like candles, wood elements, personal touches, etc. If you’re hosting a dinner party, you might opt for a gorgeously plated appetizer instead of a traditional vertical centerpiece that might inhibit guests’ line of sight across the table.

Centerpieces often become a topic of conversation which means your centerpiece is part of your story and aesthetic you’re trying to convey.

[dropcap]3[/dropcap] Accent with Details 

Details provide a finishing touch that makes your tablescape look polished and complete. Stationary, candle votives, personal elements, or favors are all great elements you can use to polish off each place setting and bring the table together. Incorporate greenery or florals to bring the space alive – in ways like a sprig or flower on each plate.

What unique details can you add that create an inviting table or give your tablescape a personal touch that makes your guests feel welcome?

GRAB THE FREE GUIDE:

Perfect Tablescape Guide

Learn how to create the perfect tablescape with our step-by-step guide + checklists.

 

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Use this checklist as a cheat-sheet or springboard for ideas about the different fabulous decor elements you can incorporate into your tablescape:

[checklist-box title="Tablescape Decor Elements" extraTitle="" extraUrl=""]

CENTERPIECE

• Floral Arrangement OR
• Non-Floral Feature

ACCENTS

• Smaller arrangements or featured pieces (between centerpieces if a long, rectangle table)
• Greenery or Flower on each plate/napkin
• Candle Votives or Lighting elements

PAPER

• Menu
• Program
• Table Number Card
• Decorative elements like a quote, cutout or card on each plate
• Personalized Placecard

LINEN

• Table Linen / Table Cloth
• Runner
• Placemats
• (Napkins listed before)

ACCESSORIES

• Table number holder
• Napkin ring(s)
• Salt & Pepper Shakers
• Favors or gifts

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