When creating the perfect dinner party or celebration, nothing is more inviting that a well dressed table…and no one knows how to dress a table better than the husband and wife team Aleah and Nick Valley of Valley & Co. They are one of the most sought after wedding planners in the US, and today they are here to show us how to create the perfect setting.
We love designing table tops for our clients, for our company, and for magazines and know that it needn’t be over thought. We often look to our own stock of sentimental items, sweet linens, and unique pieces that we have on hand to create a charming look that will make our guests feel special and welcomed. We hope you enjoy these simple ways to create your own magical ambiance dinner party after dinner party, or on an ordinary Wednesday night.
1. When dreaming up a table idea, think about what you’d like your guests to feel like when they sit down. Do you want a formal, elegant feeling? A fun, lighthearted atmosphere? Perhaps you’re thinking about creating a lush garden party theme. Asking yourself these questions will help you determine what kind of resources to look towards.
2. Bring out eclectic pieces that together create a festive and unique ambiance. Even if you’re setting your table for a casual family dinner, utilizing silver candlesticks, rolling napkins and adorning with a simple flower bloom, or putting out your best linens or festive place mats will bring a smile to your diners’ faces.
3. Fresh flowers are a must.Whether you pull fresh blooms from your garden or a local market, dress them up by using an heirloom or fun vase or vessel that will stand out. Dressing up a table with fresh fruit {think lemons or apples} or vegetables is also quite innovative and will have your guests talking! Stock tall glass hurricanes with apples or low vases with carrots or broccoli or other crudites guests can also nosh on.
4. Use a unique color palette outside of the ordinary. Put pieces together that have contrasting colors and textures. Think striped napkins against a pretty satin {or even a white cotton}table cloth. Again, this needn’t be overdone; adorning each place setting with a napkin cinched with velvet ribbon or placed with a sweet rose or orchid adds an element that’s positively charming.
5. Dress up your dinner party by having a stationer print up fun menu cards and place cards that reflect your party theme or ambiance. It’s an affordable way to provide guests with that extra touch of pizazz and will set your table apart!
However you dress your table, remember to envision creativity. With just a little imagination {and resources you have at home} you can create your own magical ambiance on your table top. For more inspiring ideas on table dressings visit Valley & Co., follow them on Twitter and find them on Facebook.
Photos for Valley & Co. by Jeremy Leffel
I love the place cards tied to the back of the chair. Great idea using simple things
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