Ask The Expert: Home Decorating
DESIGNING
TABLES
ENHANCES
AMBIANCE by Allison Fifer, POSH Home Staging & Redesign
E
veryone has accepted your invitation to your annual and festive dinner party! The excitement is mounting as the date approaches. You have the perfect menu selected and your wine is on order. Now it is time to create an atmosphere to complement your entertaining style, and designing a beautifully decorated table will enhance the ambiance and put the finishing touches on your evening!
Before the decorating begins, preparation of the space is a must. Preparing to decorate is just as important and includes decluttering and organizing the space, making things orderly, and cleaning. Once you have prepared your space, the decorating begins. Be sure to add any necessary table leaves to accommodate your guest list prior to decorating. BELOW ARE 5 TIPS FOR DESIGNING YOUR TABLE 1. Start with your Purpose, Occasion, or Inspiration. Designing a table begins with your event. What is the purpose, and who are your guests? Or maybe it is something that inspires you — a color, a lantern or a decorative plate, for example. This will help set the tone of the evening, and the mood will radiate throughout the room. I know for me, as soon as I identify this element,
my mind begins rolling with ideas on how to transform my table. 2. Use Layers. Using fabric as a foundation is great for adding dimension and interest to your table. I prefer a tablecloth for a more elegant look. However, a table runner is an option as well. Adding a simple charger in white, silver or gold with a white plate will set the base of your design. To enhance your setting, add your splash of color with a decorative salad plate, soup bowl or brightly colored napkins. Set the table with your silverware and glassware so you know the amount of space you have to work with for decorating. 3. Add a Centerpiece. Conversation is key to your guests enjoyment of each other during dinner and as you gather around the table. Avoid a tall, full floral centerpiece or anything that would impede conversation across the table. Greenery, wreaths, hurricane lamps, lanterns and
candles, or even eucalyptus and twinkling mini lights are nice
accessories to balance a table.
You can add floral picks appropriate to the season or special celebration. 4. Add a Splash of Color.
Sometimes, color can be as simple
and inexpensive as fruit. For example, a fresh pomegranate adds the right touch of red for the holidays while
red berries, oranges, and cinnamon
sticks can help accentuate your decor. It will not only look festive, but will smell incredible!
5. Keep it Simple. Stick to the basics with white or cream plates, neutral
chargers, a nice set of wine glasses, and a quality set of silverware.
Simplicity is key to your success
and does not feel overdone. After all, you want your guests to enjoy you and each other and the ambiance
which is created – without the decor standing out as the focal point.
Your table setting and decor contribute to a room and the ambiance of the meal as much as the food and wine served. With these five simple tips to designing your table, you are sure to wrap up a festive holiday evening.
940.765.2684 | POSHHOMESTAGING.COM | ALLISON@POSHHOMESTAGING.COM
22 | ARGYLE LIVING | DECEMBER 2020
www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com
