This time of year, the leaves are starting to fall, the air is beginning to cool off, pumpkins are on the front porch, and we reflect on the past seasons of the year.
As the holiday season begins, there is nothing better than a celebration to bring people together. We enjoy family and friends around the dinner table. A welcoming table is a great foundation to any occasion, such as a family dinner or preparing for family and friends to come over for a Thanksgiving feast.
Depending on the size of your table there are so many ways to decorate. There are many things to use that you might already have at home. Remember, you do not have to do the same thing at every place setting.
Find the right table for your dining space.
- Be sure to measure your dining room space. Most tables are around 48–78 inches. Many tables have a leaf so you can extend it when you have a lot of people over.
- Round dining tables are always inviting, however, they take up more space than you realize. A good-sized round table is 60 inches and can seat 6–8 people.
Some things to consider when planning for table decorations:
- Look for fabrics with different textures.
- Mix different fabrics and patterns as a base on the center of the table. For example, you can lay down two fabrics of different patterns on the center of the table, a plaid with a coordinating crushed velvet, or burlap and a bold color.
- Create a color scheme. Find a blend of colors that work together and could make an interesting tablescape.
- Find different decorative pieces of different heights. Work with an odd number of things. Make use of in-season faux plants or flowers. Add candlesticks and photo frames of different sizes. Candles add sparkle, ambiance, and liveliness to your table.
- Look for placemats that do not necessarily match, but instead compliment the fabric on the center. If you have a round table, use round placemats. For a rectangular table, use rectangular or round placemats.
- Add a personalized touch with place cards. Write each person’s name on the card. Put them on the plate or near that place setting.
- Add dishware that coordinates with your color scheme.
Things to consider when hosting a dinner:
- Food and Drink: Plan the details of your menu ahead of time.
- Atmosphere: Create a music playlist.
- Guest List: Make sure you have plenty of seating for everyone you invite.
- Desserts: Prepare your desserts a day in advance. It can be overwhelming to try to make dessert the day of the party.
- Décor: Your table décor can be as simple or as elegant as you want to make it. Be sure you plan and set up your table décor a day early, if possible. It can even be as simple as laying fresh flowers on the table.
Creating a beautiful space should reflect your style and who you are. Be creative and think outside of the box. Remember that you are creating a space for your friends and family to gather around. It is entirely up to you how you want the table to look. Have fun and enjoy yourself! And most importantly, make memories.
Photos by Rancher’s Daughter Photography
Article written by Stacey Cooper and originally published in Focus on Carlsbad 2024 Fall edition.
Stacey Cooper
Stacey Cooper is the owner of Skeen Furniture. Stacey has years of experience in home design and retail furniture. She has a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design and is the fourth-generation owner of Skeen Furniture.
