Successful tablescapes are planned, and are not about having the finest linens and china. The whole point of designing a tablescape is to create a meaningful vignette that reflects your personality, the season, or the event you’re hosting. Designing it should be fun, not torture, so consider focusing on these four elements to create a functional and beautiful table to entertain, and make memories.
#1 Color — Use materials like linen napkins, flowers, candles, placemats, a runner, or even the table itself to infuse color that reflects the season or theme of your event.
#2 Layers — If creating a centerpiece, use a singular floral arrangement or focal point for a more formal feel. Alternatively, group 2, 3 or 5 items such as a seasonal floral, candlesticks, a plate with organic material, salt and pepper shakers, etc., to create a less formal centerpiece. To set the table, start with a charger and work up to a soup bowl.
#3 Texture — Vary your textures using mixed metallics, woods, glass, ceramics and stemware to develop an interesting combination of shiny, rough, smooth and matte. Use whatever you have to vary the texture to add interest, and a tactile dimension, to the tablescape.
#4 Height — Be aware of the different heights you add, and how well you will be able to see the person sitting across from you.