How to Create a Beautiful Tablescape for Your Dinner Parties

Remember the opening sequence of Downton Abbey–the one with the white-gloved butler’s hands setting the silver on the table, ruler in hand, measuring the distance between each utensil, plate, and glass to make sure everything is perfectly placed? Today we’re lucky if we even have time to sit down for a quick bite to eat before the kids rush off to soccer practice; forget about preparing a five-course dinner served with eight different forks and three types of meat for a dining room full of well-dressed friends! Somewhere between these two extremes there has to be a place for a more simple type of dinner party, yet one that still feels put-together and personable.

Your home says so much about you. Inviting people into your home allows you to share a part of yourself with your friends. Create a welcoming dining space by designing a beautiful tablescape, and remember:  in the words of The Nester, Myquillyn Smith, “It doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful.”

What is a Tablescape?

A tablescape refers to the way you choose to arrange your dining room table. If you have ever been to a formal event, cute bakery, or upbeat party, you have probably noticed that there is a tablescape for every occasion. Whether it’s an expensive array of artistic pieces or a simple vase of fresh flowers, the table sets the mood.

Most homeowners create a tablescape with a particular event or season in mind. Holidays, themed parties, weather changes, etc. all provide perfectly valid reasons to switch things up at the table. That said, you might just want a change of scenery. Whatever you have in mind, we’re here to help.

Key Elements of a Beautiful Tablescape

Before we discuss how you can incorporate your pieces together into a gorgeous tablescape, let’s take a closer look at the pieces themselves. The purpose of a tablescape is not to overwhelm or overcrowd the table, but to please the eye. Consequently, not every tablescape has to incorporate every possible element. It all depends on the size of your table, the room, how much food is going on the table, etc.

If you aren’t sure what you should include in your tablescape, try using one of the following items as a focal point.

• Table Runner
• Centerpiece
• Dishware
• Glasses
• Cutlery
• Napkins
• Greenery
• Placecards
• Candles
• Placemats
• Charger Plates

Tips for Creating a Beautiful Tablescape for Your Dinner Parties

So, how can you create a stunning tablescape that will perfectly accessorize your beautiful home? Like everything else in your home, your table should reflect your personality. However, you can draw your own tastes and styles out by applying the following tips.

1. Choose a color scheme or theme.

Always begin with a plan. The colors you choose should complement one another and not fight for attention. Pair soft, neutral colors with bright, cheerful colors. Give 1 or 2 colors the spotlight, and let the others fade into the background.

2. Keep elements proportionate.

Once you know the dishware and decor pieces you are working with, make sure you keep everything size-oriented. Your centerpiece should not be a small speck on the table, nor should your plates take up large amounts of space. Keep everything proportional to each other and to the table itself.

3. Add pops of color or texture.

Floral arrangements, bright knick-knacks, textured ribbon, and more all lend a feeling of cheer to the table. Don’t forget that the food you serve can also act as a colorful accent.

4. Keep the season in mind.

If the season is autumn, try not to decorate with pastels and spring flowers. If the season is summer, avoid pine branches and dark colors. Try to keep the weather and seasonal vibes in mind as you decorate.

5. Try not to overcrowd.

Not overcrowding is especially important if you decide to place serving dishes on the table. Give your guests the elbow room they need. Ultimately, comfort is more important than beauty.

Need a Beautiful Home to Go With Your Tablescape?

At Sheffield Homes, we have more than 40 years of experience to help guide you through the homebuilding process, every step of the way. Call us today at 303-420-0056 to begin planning your custom home in the Denver metro area or in northern Colorado.