Tablescapes

My friend asked me to set up some "tablescaping", or place setting, ideas for our Relief Society meeting a few days ago. At first I felt a little overwhelmed, not sure where to begin, but as I started putting things together, I had such a good time. I borrowed a few plates and napkins and tablecloths, and when I started laying it all out, I was amazed how much could work together. I came up with nine different layouts that are each a little bit unique. I ranged from very simple to very formal. In the end, I could not pick a favorite. I love something about each of them.

The idea was to create a mini version of a table setting. There is one actual place setting and then the centerpieces and tablecloth you might put with them. Of course everything would be stretched out further on a dining table. (not crammed all together as you see here)

Another interesting note: not very much in the settings was actually purchased together. I love that it's easy and okay to mix and match and put together pieces that you love.

I started with a "brunch" setting. This one is warmly toned complete with a carafe and mug, juice glass, and large bowl and plate for fruit and eggs. There is a pouring dish for syrup. I limited the silverware, keeping it simple. Of course any color of fruit would look good with this setting. I think it appears very cozy.

My second table was for summer/springtime lunch. This is a very colorful setting, but also very simple again. I purposely left off the tablecloth. I think just the wooden table can be such a pretty accent, and something as informal as lunch doesn't need a cloth. There is a pitcher for lemonade, a simple glass, napkin, and usual setting.

As a side note, I ended up picking more daffodils to add before the presentation. I thought they looked a little sparse. :)

This table is entitled "simple". It's sweet and slightly girlish, yet the idea of it could be created out of any type of design or preference. The color scheme is minimal. The napkin is placed very informally and the extra plates give a sense of a buffet "help yourself" sort of attitude.

The fourth table is my "Modern Fancy" table. It's set up very formally, yet the colors and lack of flowers give it an edge and feeling of sophistication. My sisters gave me the damask place setting for my birthday a few years ago and I think it's fabulous. I had never paired it with green before and I think I really like it. Instead of a placemat, I used a silver charger, which lends it a more formal touch.

I have a weak spot for anything red. This setting I have used many times for my own dinner parties. The newest addition is the red goblet I inherited from my Grandmother. I combined a metallic placemat with a red charger this time. The sharp, stark white branches are balanced with the roundness found every where else on the table. I left the tablecloth off of this one also and used a long red table runner instead.

This next setting is the most formal and elegant one of them all. I used the crystal and genuine silver for this one, complete with all the forks, knives, and spoons you would find in a formal place setting. (you can't see the cake fork and dessert fork above the gold charger). Another wineglass could be added to this setting as well. The color scheme is very monochromatic and fancy. However, the place card is a bold color that stands out in the beginning. For a place setting like this, you need a large table if you are to fit more than four settings on it. Almost everything seen here goes along with the actual setting.

Here's another "dinner party" idea. This one has a more oriental vibe to it, with many earthtones. This combines a table runner and tablecloth together. I ended up switching the bowl and ceramic piece because I felt it was better visually. I wish I had that picture instead.

Instead of a place setting with this table, I have an idea for a party set-up. The actual table would be longer with lots more corresponding goodies and treats. The taller jar contains licorice, the glass has straws, the other jars, candy.


Here's an idea for an outdoor BBQ. Everything, except the candle centerpieces, even the pitcher, is plastic. You can never have enough napkins and plastic utensils either.

I had a blast putting this all together. Now if only I could cook well enough to match the tables we would be all set. :)