Budget-Friendly Entertaining: Creating Impressive Tablescapes Without Breaking the Bank
People often worry that they lack the skills to create a designer tablescape. However, with the right tips and tools, anyone can create an impressive setting for a lavish dinner party. Most people find they can do so with items they already have in the home, but where should they start?
Choose a Theme
Every tablescape needs a theme to give the designer a starting point. Often, the theme revolves around a holiday, but that isn’t always the case, so the designer must be creative. They may wish to have a black and gold theme, ideal for an elegant event.
Lavish doesn’t have to mean formal, though. The host or hostess might choose a plant-based theme for the tablescape. This option is ideal for a meal focused on fresh fruits and vegetables. Bunches of herbs and flowers dress up the table, and they can be combined with lightweight plates and woven placemats for a gorgeous look.
An all-white tablescape is perfect for winter events, and a flower theme is ideal when spring arrives. It brings the beauty of nature indoors. When summer arrives, a beach-themed tablescape can bring smiles to people's faces during a dinner party. Autumn is the perfect time to mix things up and create an elegant tablescape using candles and various textiles.
The options for tablescape themes are endless. People should look around their homes to see what is available and select a theme. They can then purchase additional items if needed.
Choose Colors
The tablescape colors must be carefully selected. It is best to have one or two primary colors and secondary colors to complement the main ones. A color wheel helps a person see potential combinations and how they will enhance the tablescape. Another option is to choose one color and create the tablescape using various shades of that color.
Monochromatic colors are modern and elegant, making them ideal for a lavish dinner party. When choosing this color scheme, don't overlook neutrals. They complement black-and-white items nicely. However, it never hurts to add a few splashes of color. Do so in unexpected places. For example, purchase brightly colored candles or bud vases. Glassware may also be used to add color to the tablescape.
Add Linens
Linens may be in the selected colors, or white ones may serve as a backdrop for the other decor. They set the tone for the entire presentation. If round tables are used for the dinner, consider layering tablecloths. Start with a round tablecloth that drops to the floor. The fabric for this tablecloth can be basic linen, as it will mostly be covered. Invest in high-end fabric square toppers to lay over the round tablecloths.
Table runners are another option to consider. Start with a solid-color tablecloth and layer a brightly colored table runner over it. No hard-and-fast rule states the table runner must be made of fabric. An unconventional material like wrapping paper would be a good alternative.
Placemats and cloth napkins may be added to the tablescape. Consider textured pieces to add visual interest. Another way to do so is to fold the napkins to match the occasion. Napkin rings may also be used. Choose ones that coordinate with the linens for an elegant look.
Tableware
The dishes selected are the highlight of the tablespace. Create the place settings based on the foods being served. For example, if the meal includes a salad, ensure each person has a salad fork. Omit this item if there will be no salad. Only including items that will be used ensures the guests have what they need without the table being cluttered.
Begin with a placemat or charger, and add bowls and plates. Includes glasses and utensils before placing the napkin on top. Consider having a printed menu at each setting so guests know what they can look forward to.
Add Height
Adding height to the tablescape makes it more visually appealing. The tablescape will attract the eye when guests first enter the room. Centerpieces, candles, and long-stem flowers in vases are three ways a person can add height. Use a variety of materials and items of different heights. Taper candles combined with votives add a nice touch, and a variety of glassware provides dimension.
The Centerpiece
The centerpiece serves as the focal point of the tablescape and adds height. However, it should stand out from other items. It needs to wow guests the moment they see it. Flowers make a wonderful centerpiece, but don’t hesitate to think outside the box.
An interesting container can serve as the centerpiece of a tablescape. Fill a clear container with seashells or colored glass marbles and add a decorative touch. The container doesn’t have to be big if it blends in with other items and provides some height, as outlined above.
Another option is to create a centerpiece that extends the length of the table. Place a table runner down and arrange objects of varying heights along it. During the fall, place acorns and pine cones the length of the runner and intersperse them with candles to provide the desired height.
Add conversation pieces to the centerpiece to get people talking. These items should have a special meaning for the host or hostess so they can share this information with guests. Think of a hat, a book, or a unique item that can’t be found anywhere else.
One thing to remember is the centerpiece should not impede conversation. If it appears it will, remove the centerpiece before sitting down to dine. Everyone should be able to talk freely during the meal, so keep this in mind and plan accordingly.
Once the tablescape is complete, it’s time to add the small details. The host or hostess may place namecards at each seat or they could install fairy lights to make the setting magical. After-dinner mints are an option, and the guests would enjoy having a souvenir to remind them of this amazing event.
Practice creating tablescapes during family dinners. Determine what works and what doesn’t. When the time comes to host a lavish dinner for guests, creating the perfect tablescape will take little time and effort. You will already know what works and what doesn’t, so your attention can turn to other elements of the dinner that need your time and energy to ensure the dinner is perfect from start to finish.
