In case you weren’t already aware, dressing your table has an official name, Tablescaping – the art of setting your table. Never heard of it? Well you probably are not alone. But, now is as good a time as any to pay attention to this increasingly celebrated trend. And for good reason too, with recent months proving the importance of being at home, hosting friends and family around the table as never held so much significance. It might just become the new going out, or at least a safer version thereof. And given our globetrotting escapades are on hold for the foreseeable future, now is a good a time as any to make it really count on the home-front.
The theory behind the concept works in the same way you would consider an outfit from head to toe. Expect, here it’s the dining table being dressed from top to toe – think, napkins, plates, flowers, platters and then the colour schematic or theme that will link it all together. Some pre-planning, and dare I say it, shopping in this department ensures you won’t be caught out and have to scramble when tasked with the role of host de jour role. More importantly, it delivers a beautiful table setting, that you will proudly sit your friends and family around.
That said, here are our top table setting suggestions to ensure a memorable dinner party at home.
LINEN NAPKINS
Invest in good cloth or linen napkins. They can last a lifetime and are a sure-fire way to set your table apart from the ordinary. While you are at it, a good tablecloth will never go astray.
MIX IT UP
Mixed plattery and ceramics are encouraged. Who wants a prim and perfectly set table anyway? Mixing design elements across the table, wooden bowls with ceramic plates adds texture and interest to the table.
COLOUR PALETTE
Stick to one colour palette. From earthy browns and oranges to contrasting patterns across serving trays and napkins, to the always stylish all white affair. Whatever your preference how you set the table sets the tone for the meal to come. As a rule of thumb if you are serving a colourful meal, strike a balance with the serve ware to let the food stand out.
GLASSWEAR
Pair up glassware- Don’t limit your drinks or drink-ware options, and don’t be afraid to pair up glass wear. Pretty blue or green water jugs add swatches of gleaming colour to the table. Check out this gorgeous pale mint coloured EziBuy, Cabo set with glasses, for a perfect example of something far too pretty to relegate to the cupboards.
A PINCH OF SALT
The details matter – A stylish salt and pepper holder is always needed. From enormous grinders to tiny delicate marble pots to hold the salt and pepper with a pinch of style.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
Keep it simple – Sometimes less is more, and a table that’s been too elaborately dressed does not necessarily mean it is more beautiful for it. A well thought out colour schematic with simple linens, matching plates and above average serve wear will never let you down.
PLACEMATS
Placemats, placemats, placemats. If you don’t have any, please get some. They create a stylish space for each setting. Square ones are useful in giving the table a modern look while round ones soften an angular tablescape.
PLAN AHEAD – NEVER GET CAUGHT SHORT
Plan ahead – Thinking ahead ensures when you do entertain, you have what you need to do it with style. Start with the basics, collecting linens, plates and glassware. Once you have these essential table basics, it’s easier to build it up from there.
