Setting a Better Table

Take your next dinner party to the next level with these tablescaping tips.

We’ve all seen pictures of elaborate tablescapes in lifestyle magazines, and it can be easy to think that going beyond a simple centerpiece is just for the pros. So we spoke with two pros of our own — Holly and Brad of Our Faux Farmhouse — to get some simple tips for stepping up your table game. Turns out, keeping a few guidelines in mind can make creating beautiful seasonal tablescapes a breeze.

Five Steps for the Perfect Tablescape

Step 1

Shop your house

Look for items that can serve a dual purpose: wrapping paper that can easily be cut into placemats, jars that can serve as pitchers or vases, a cake stand that can hold dinner rolls to add height and interest, etc. This is your chance to get creative and save some cash in the process.

Step 2

Select simple dishes

Crisp white plates and serving dishes are a timeless investment and the perfect starting point for any tablescape. Not only does it save money to be able to reuse them season after season, they also keep your tablescape well-balanced rather than too busy.

Step 3

Bring the outside in

Incorporate warmth and natural elements into your tablescape with greenery and florals. For spring, focus on delicate blossoms and pops of color. For summer, keep the palette fresh with succulents and olive stems or sprigs of eucalyptus.

Step 4

Add visual interest

Now it’s time to incorporate texture, color and personality into your table. Look for ways to use natural wood finishes or woven textures like jute. Add some flair with fun, colorful napkins or glasses. Bring on the pattern play in your table runner or placemats. Add varying heights of décor to bring your table to life. The sky’s the limit.

Step 5

Gather together

Invite your nearest and dearest over for a dinner party, and enjoy the fruits (and veggies!) of your labor. Don’t forget to snap and share pictures!

Seasonal Tablescape Pro Pointers

Use what you have

You’d be surprised at how many little tablescape treasures you can find in your existing décor. Repurposing jars, vases and greenery can add extra interest, and wrapping paper can become an easy placemat hack.

Feature Florals for Spring

Spring is the perfect time to add a little life to your table. After a long winter, your guests will be craving playful florals and pops of color, so don’t be shy. Embrace soft floral patterns and pastels like pink, green and yellow.

Keep it Fresh for Summer

The key to a summer tablescape is a breezy, refreshing color palette. Consider crisp whites and picnic-inspired patterns like gingham. Then pair with plenty of greenery, cool stone finishes and a few natural textures for warmth.

Meet the Lauritzens

NAME Brad and Holly Lauritzen
LOCATION Austin, Texas
OCCUPATION DIYers
INSTAGRAM @ourfauxfarmhouse
KNOWN FOR Transforming their home into a faux farmhouse on a budget
FAVORITE PROJECT Upgrading their patio to create an entirely new outdoor living space

Where to next?

Take a peek into our build process, or search dream homes and communities.

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