What a great workshop last night–lots of good energy and fun inspiration for the upcoming holidays!
Here are a few things we reviewed:
Set your table
Set up your table linen arsenal with a few basic but gorgeous pieces that you can use over and over throughout each season. Choose linens in neutral tones so that you can play up your changing seasonal decor. Here’s a great money-saving hint: buy a bedspread or a piece of fabric big enough to cover your entire table and then you can get away with a smaller tablecloth turned on an angle.
Layer, layer, layer!
Different textures and colors will add visual interest to your table and your guests will never tire of your basic pieces. Start with your tablecloth, then consider a runner down the middle. Turn placemats on end and hang them off the edge of the table. Use napkins for placemats and runners. Chargers can be a great way to lift the dinner plate off the table and mix and match dinnerware.
Centerpieces
Centerpieces can be dramatic and glorious and great way to set the tone of the party but . . . they can get in the way of the conversation flow during dinner. Set the table with your beautiful centerpiece and then replace it with a shorter version as dinner is served.
Fresh floral centerpieces are a real treat for your guests and do add to the tone of your party. If you can’t get to the florist, you still can make a splash with other things found around the house. Gather your most sparkly ornaments in a pretty bowl, decorate a rosemary tree with a garland and some small birds, place miniature Christmas cactus three in a row, or set a wreath with candles in the center.
Don’t forget favors!
Your guests will leave your party feeling special and well taken care of. We love edible favors. . .they are inexpensive and easy to tuck away on the way home. Try a small bag of peppermints, a tub of jam or a packet of hot cocoa! the possibilities are endless.
Most of all, have fun decorating and send us pictures of all of your lovely creations!
