Styling the dinner table is a way to make a meal special and inviting. Whether you're sitting in your breakfast nook, on your back porch, or at your dining room table, you want your table décor to be a reflection of the atmosphere you want to create. Decorating your table according to the seasons is sure to impress, but don’t forget to always add some personal style touches when you're setting the scene. No matter what aesthetic you’re aiming to achieve, here are some foolproof tips to help elevate your tablescape:
1. Setting the Base:
You can transform any table into a luxurious place to sit with the right tablecloth. Not only will a good tablecloth protect your table from hot dishes and spills, but it will also add a decorative touch or pop of color without adding extra clutter to your dining area. Table runners can also help you to achieve this by either resting on their own over a bare tabletop or paired with a full tablecloth.
2. Dinnerware, Flatware and Glassware:
Your dinnerware selection should help to enhance your décor style while still being functional and appropriate for the meal. Layering your dinnerware pieces such as a dinner plate, salad plate and a soup bowl helps to provide your table with more depth. Arrange your utensils in the order that they will be used. The knife goes on the right of the plate with the sharp edge facing the plate, the fork goes on the left of the plate, and the spoon goes to the right of the knife. If you are serving a salad or soup, place the appropriate utensils to the far left of the fork. Place the water glass to the right of the dinner plate, and if you are serving wine, place the wine glass to the right of the water glass. Life is hard enough, arranging your place setting shouldn't be.
3. Under the Dishes:
Adding a placemat is also a wonderful way to add another layer to your place setting! Placemats come in all shapes, sizes, and textures. Offered in a variety of materials, including paper, cloth, bamboo, plastic, vinyl, leather, cotton, polyester, linen, burlap, placemats are a versatile way to add visual interest and function to your table setting. Have fun picking one that mirrors and elevates your current décor for maximum cohesion.
4. Choose the Right Napkins:
The occasion will dictate the type of napkins you should choose. For formal occasions, consider using fabric napkins in a neutral color, such as white or ivory. For casual occasions, you can use paper or cloth napkins in a variety of colors and patterns. Think about the color scheme: If your table setting features bold or bright colors, consider using neutral colored napkins to balance out the look. If your table setting features neutral tones, you can use colorful or patterned napkins to add interest. Napkins come in a range of sizes and styles, including folded, rolled, or draped—the options are endless!
5. All the Little Things:
Once your table is set, it's time to dive into décor! When it comes to decorations, incorporating florals is a great way to bring your space to life - whether through floral prints or live flowers, adding some greenery to the room is a wonderful way to enhance an organic style. For a more romantic or intimate feeling, dine by the warm glow of candlelight. Cluster groups of tea lights with taller, tapered candles for added visual interest and a lighting effect that’s perfect for date night. To add a more personal touch to your space, include little objects or knick-knacks such as figurines, fruit, or sentimental items.
There is no one right way to set a dinner table. It's important to choose a style that works best for you and your guests, but remember that the most important thing about the dinner table is the company around it!