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Tablescaping is the art of setting the table.
It’s about more than just having enough cutlery and plates for everyone, it’s about connection, making memories, and the celebration of life and food.
Carolyn Dorrian, founder of Melbourne based brand Mrs Tablescape, found tablescaping during the pandemic as a way to make moments more special for her family.
“We are always in a rush; on our phones, checking emails, commuting. The table offers an opportunity to slow down and connect, and has done so since the beginning of time,” Ms Dorrian says.
And as we are now in the thick of the silly season, we are all looking for ways to up our tablescaping game. Here are some of Ms Dorrian’s tips for the art of tablescaping - but remember creativity and experimentation is always encouraged!
Height
Introducing height on your table creates interest, variety, and drama.
“Heights are really important as they provide an almost 3D effect to the table,” Ms Dorrian notes.
This is very simple to do as well. Tall candles create ambience and height, and sculptural vases also make great centrepieces. Anything sculptural or design oriented is always a great addition to a table.
If you have beautiful salads and meats on your table, put a few books beneath the platter or bowl to give them a boost - after all food is always the main event.
Layering
To give your table depth and interest, try layering with different textiles and items.
The table can have more than just a tablecloth - it can also include things like runners, placemats, foliage, food, and more. These things don’t have to be difficult to source. “One of your nice linen bed sheets makes a great tablecloth for a big table - all the event designers do it.”
Runners can be traditional or can even be more creative with leaves, foliage, and flowers. Another really great way to layer your table is to include seasonal fruits and vegetables as decorative pieces.
“Maximalism is on the rise so don’t be afraid to go crazy!”
Invest in key pieces
If you really want to make your table pop, you can consider investing in a couple of really key pieces.
Ms Dorrian recommends investing in a centrepiece - this can be a tall sculptural vase, an eye-catching salad bowl or an eccentric candleholder.
She also recommends having a variety of fun and interesting side plates that can be used interchangeably. “You can only use so many dinner plates, but side plates are easier to store and have a larger variety of uses.” Consider buying a set of cutlery in a different colour like gold or brass to mix it up.
Tablescaping this Christmas
When it comes to Christmas, Ms Dorrian encourages people to think out of the box and to have fun.
“Don’t feel confined to a red and green colour palette - pick a bold colour and blend it in and it will be way more memorable!”
Another great way to incorporate christmas into your table is to use christmas decorations from around the house - baubles, tinsel, garlands and such. Ms Dorrian also recommends using things like gingerbread as an extra delicious table feature.
The best way to make your guests feel special this Christmas is to add place cards - it makes people feel thought of and considered.
Making memories with tablescaping
People have been gathering and connecting over the table for all of time - it’s a way to connect and in our busy lives, it offers a way to slow down. Tablescaping is all about making sure you are carving out the time in your day and giving yourself the space to enjoy your life, home, and loved ones.
