Five Tips for Setting a Gorgeous Table

I was thrilled when I read the Washington Post’s Home & Garden columnist Jura Koncius’ recent article declaring that vintage tableware is making a comeback in restaurants and homes and that “the big white plate” may have run its course. Formal, all-white table settings dressed with an arsenal of flatware can be stuffy and even stifle interaction among your guests.

For an afternoon tea, I used one of my favorite colorful fabrics from @schumacher1889, which brims with cheerfulness and personality and sets the tone for a festive gathering. (Jen Leonard Interiors. Photo: Felicia Evans)

I love to mix fresh colors and patterns. In fact, one of the most frequent reasons my design clients tell me they hired me was they were bored with beige and wanted to infuse some color and pattern into their homes and didn’t know where to start.

Don’t fret if your cabinet is currently stocked with all white plates. You can easily add personality to your table without smashing your current china. Check out local consignment stores, estate sales or your grandmother’s cabinets for colorful vintage china to layer on top of your neutrals and add a splash of color and pattern to your table setting.

Setting the Tone

I believe that thoughtful, beautiful interiors enhance our wellness and happiness. And I think the same is true of a gorgeous table setting. The way you set your table can influence how you and your guests feel, behave and experience a meal. So why not create a beautiful, cheery table to welcome your guests and celebrate every day living?

The Foundation

I start building a tablescape the same way I start decorating a room - with the fabric. I confess I’m a textile fanatic. My closets are brimming with lovely fabrics. One way I love to showcase and enjoy them is by having them made into tablecloths. Your local tailor can transform a few yards of remnant fabric into a statement tablecloth easily and inexpensively. If you want to take your tablecloth up a notch, add some festive trim.

How to Accessorize

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Plates

Mix and match plates of different sizes and colors for visual interest.

Here I layered three different lovely plates from @mottahedehchina and @by_spode to top off @schumacher1889 fabric and create a colorful and vibrant setting. (Photo: Jen Leonard Interiors)

Flowers are a must on a beautiful table. They add an essential layer of beauty, color and interest. My general rule for flower arrangements is to keep them low so as not to prevent guests from seeing and conversing with each other. They should also be simple. I prefer one or two colors and flower varieties. There is also no reason to spend a lot on flowers. Trader Joe’s and your local supermarket are great places to shop for lovely, inexpensive flowers.

Vibrant orange roses set off the fiery pattern of a brilliant @manuelconovas fabric for @cowtanandtout. (Jen Leonard Interiors Photo:Felicia Evans)

Get creative with vessels for flowers.

An antique bowl becomes a lovely vase pictured here on top of a fabulous fabric from designer Barry Dixon, setting the foundation for rich purple and pink tones. (Photo: Jen Leonard Interiors)

“Jewelry is like the perfect spice - it always complements what’s already there.” - Diane Von Furstenberg

I recommend always using cloth napkins when entertaining. They instantly elevate a place setting and send a message to guests that they are special and important to you. (I love the online shop Pomegranate Inc. for quality and festive table linens. This is not a paid endorsement. I just think the company is great resource that offers lovely, high quality napkins.)

Finish off your napkins by adding a little drama and sparkle with a stylish napkin ring. This one makes a powerful statement - and may make a nice bracelet too.

Lovely Cacao Vine fabric from designer Barry Dixon (@barrydardixon) for Vervain Fabrics. (Jen Leonard Interiors. Photo:Felicia Evans)

Add decorative objects for a layer of interest.

A fun, final layer to setting a gorgeous table is to add small decorative objects. I love statues but you can add fruits, nuts or photos to add personality to a table. Above all, have fun with setting your table and celebrate the everyday.

Here I added a foo dog statue for a little drama. (Jen Leonard Interiors Photo: Felicia Evans)

In Conclusion

No matter the occasion, there are always interesting, inventive, and engaging ways to spruce up your table design. I hope this blog post helped demonstrate how to use what you already have to make your tablescapes perfect for any luncheon or dinner party.