I’m sure you are all feeling like I am and like, What!? the Holiday are here?! We are hoping to share some tips and holiday table inspiration. The way this year is shaping up, here in Charleston, we may actually be able to have dinner in the garden! So, before we get into the table details, deciding where you are going to set up will be key. Whether, it’s the dining room, multiple rooms, or somewhere al fresco!
As every good hostess/host knows, making your guests as comfortable as possible is the goal when entertaining. Here, we made sure chairs had comfy pillows gathered from around the house (considering our older guests’ back issues), and had pashminas readily available for when the sun tucks away. You wouldn’t believe it, but, our “linen” here is actually a cotton rug purchased for a steal at World Market! Love giving some color and texture in something other than flowers. SImple potted plants from somewhere like Trader Joe’s, and loose seasonal fruits loosely placed throughout and some candles, and you have a lovely tablescape!
Also, there are many options for color schemes- don’t feel as if you have to stick to heavier, darker, “fall colors”. An amber is paired with brighter pinks and yellows, but also features wood and feather accents to create an updated seasonal look. And, while it may not be feasible for a small home gathering, we love having turkish tea towels printed with the menu! Finally, adorn the napkins, even with something as simple as a ribbon tie, or a sprig of something from the garden (think rosemary, berry stems, etc).
And, don’t shy away from unobvious color pairings based on what you have around the house. So many colors can serve as a neutral depending on what you pair them with. Here, “spring green” works with a darker fall hue, and a lighter more perennial scheme. Very simple florals in smaller and varrying containers are very popular right now, and couldn’t be easier. You can do this with a store bought bouquet that you break down, or even cut greens and blooms in your yard.
For those that tend to keep more neutral linens, china, etc. dressing that up is a snap also. Try mixing up your china or glassware will collected pieces or a colorful set. Accessorizing napkins with blooms, ties, rocks with handpainted names, etc would all be fun. Or, this would even be a place to break out any colored napkins
Chargers are back and having a big moment, one of the easiest ways to add detail. And, if you don’t have enough chairs to accommodate your guests, think about setting up a table in a living room along a sofa! Any pop up table once it’s covered with a pretty linen and table top looks as beautiful and totally unexpected.
Playing with pattern is fun too… the more the better. One special detail you could do if you had enough time – embroider the initials of all of guests on their napkins, and you can use each year.
photo courtesy of Charleston Magazine
Of course, don’t forget to keep it easy and have a self serve bar ready to go. Not just for alcohol, but you can have bottled or carafes of water, sparkling water, champagne, white wine and beer on ice, even a dispenser of iced tea or a speciality drink. I always love a chance to use my old school punch bowl, since it’s so very rare these days. See more holiday table tips here.