It must have been said somewhere; a meal and the people you share it with become more satisfying when you’re sitting at a table that welcomes you and your plate. Feng shui of the foods, I think the ancient Chinese missed out on this one. If an individual can harmonize with the environment that surrounds them, one can also inspire harmony from their meal and with the people gathered to share it.
Tablescape – (pairing the words table and landscape) to thoughtfully set your table in the design you wish, which is conducive to the feel you’re looking to inspire from your gathering. Whether it be family, friends, colleagues, a special someone, or just a special you.
Below are the top 5 ways to take your table to the next level. and inspire a memorable experience to be shared over a meal.
- Set The Mood with a Color Scheme and Theme
Depending on the occasion, weather, and time, harmony can be achieved between you and your immediate environment. Think of a romantic dinner – the first thing that comes to mind; the color red, candles/roses, and dessert of course, but that’s for the bedroom ;).
Think of a family lunch – what could contribute to happy or fun times that inspire great conversations? Light, fun colors to complement the setting.
While for dinner – deeper, darker tones would set the right vibes to match the night sky. You can also never go wrong with an all white setting here.
Holidays of course, will have their own theme. But you don’t have to wait for Thanksgiving, or any holiday. to style your table and set the scene for your friends and family.
- It’s All About The Aesthetics
Feed the eyes the way you feed the tummy. A centerpiece, which can consist of a set of candles, a vase, flowers that tie into your color scheme, or all of them combined. Preferably not too tall, you don’t want to block the view of the people across. A centerpiece could also be the main attraction in a stand out serving dish. Are you having comfort food or gourmet? Differentiate between the vibe of your setting. Classic white plates to make your colorful meal stand out. Or patterned/embroidered dinnerware to complement your food.
- Invite Nature In
Fresh flowers, tree twigs, or nature scented candles are perfect to garner hints of the outdoors. A meal can sometimes go on longer than expected, especially if everyone is having a good time. Keep it light and fresh by having little reminders of nature. A centerpiece is what usually encompasses the nature aspect, but if you’re running out of table space, a few scattered petals or leaves can go a long way.
- Less is more
Tablescaping doesn’t have to be much. or you could go all out when you’re in the mood. You definitely want to do something to show the people around the table that they are special to you, just as special as the meal you have prepared for them. Always have an eye out on leaving enough space for the food and dinnerware. Ensure your guests have enough room to move things if necessary. Also, the less clutter, the more you’ll be able to see your beautiful table or tablecloth.
- Essentials are Key and Tie Everything Together
Starting from the base – if your table is not much of a looker, have no fear, the mighty tablecloth is here. But if you have a rustic wooden, or beautiful glass table that you want to show off, keep it bare. Aim to place the centerpiece next. This will allow you to gauge how much space you have on your table. Placemats, napkins, and coasters go next. Then dinnerware – plates, cutlery, and glasses. Last but least, your personalized touch-ups and decor. These are lightweight items and can be saved for the end once the heavy items have been laid down. Ornaments, candles and flowers/petals can go on now, followed by napkins on top or beside the plates, folded artistically if you wish. Finally, and drumroll of course. don’t forget the food!
A tablescape is a chance for your artistic side to shine and can be a welcoming embrace to your guests. Play around with it and see what works best for you.
