While many people might start their decorating focus on the tree or their home in general, my imagination starts with envisioning my Christmas tablescape. To me, Christmas dinner represents the culmination of all things Christmas, so, naturally, my Christmas tablescape should live up to the hipe.

Creating a beautiful tablescape for Christmas can transform holiday gatherings into unforgettable moments. While searching online for inspiration, I came across five stunning tablescapes, each unique in its own way.

So here are my favorite tablescapes of the month. May these ideas spark your creativity in crafting a magical Christmas table setting that will make your holiday truly special. Get ready to transform your holiday table and celebrate the season in style!

*Please note that some affiliate links are included for your convenience.

1. The Traditional Christmas Tablescape

I couldn’t resist sharing this exquisite traditional tablescape created by Anna from Some Tyme Place. Anna graciously introduces us to a Christmas tablescape that embodies elegance and charm. Her design transports guests to a warm, vintage holiday atmosphere reminiscent of the movie Home Alone. This enchanting setup is sure to impress and create unforgettable memories!

Let’s recreate the look:

2. Rustic Christmas Tablescape

Who wouldn’t want to spend Christmas in the serene countryside? Kim from Shiplap and Shells offers us a charming table setting that exudes both elegance and homeliness. It’s the ideal atmosphere for creating cherished family memories during the holiday season.

Let’s recreate the look of this Christmas Tablescape:

3. Super Glam Holiday Tablescape

The theatrical design created by Desirée from the 36th Avenue is not only gorgeous but oh so festive. The dazzling brilliance of her tablescape, adorned with shimmering accents that catch the light, creates an enchanting atmosphere. Each detail is carefully curated, ensuring that every guest is captivated by the stunning presentation and the joyful ambiance it evokes. So glamourous!

Let’s recreate the look:

4. Blue Christmas Table Setting

I truly admire how this table setting embraces a unique approach by incorporating elements that aren’t overly festive, aside from the striking large fern centerpiece. Created by Karen from Sanctuary Home Decor, this design masterfully blends tableware that would not usually say Christmas, yet it results in an eye-catching holiday tablescape. The harmonious mix of terracotta, blues, greens, and gold creates a sophisticated Christmas atmosphere, making it an inspiring choice for holiday gatherings.

Let’s recreate the look of this Christmas Table Setting:

5. Simple White Christmas Tablescape

If you are dreaming of a white Christmas, look no further. Rebekah from A Blissful Nest has crafted a stunning design that captures the spirit of a white Christmas perfectly. With its charming elegance, this design proves that simplicity can truly shine! Both beautiful and idyllic!

Let’s recreate the look:

Ideas for Christmas Tablescapes

I trust that the examples above have sparked some creative ideas for your Christmas tablescape. This enchanting season is not just about decorations; it’s a time filled with joy, warmth, and the chance to make priceless memories with loved ones.

Let your table setting elevate your celebrations and transform this Christmas into your most unforgettable one yet!

Need a hand? Learn how to set a table like a pro with my Guide to Setting the Perfect Table. I would also love to hear your ideas on how you envision this year’s Christmas tablescape. Please share your thoughts in the comments below!

Talk soon,

The Working Stay at Home Mom

The post Tablescape Inspirations: 5 Tablescapes for Christmas appeared first on The Working Stay at Home Mom.

I love fall in general, but where I live, October truly embodies a perfect vision of autumn. The air becomes crisp, the leaves transition into a stunning array of bright reds, oranges, and yellows, and the harvest of apples, squashes, beets, and sweet potatoes motivates you to turn on your ovens and roast something delicious! Beauty is all around in October, and that is an inspiration in itself. 

When it comes to tablescaping, autumn can lead to some of the most beautiful table settings. With themes inspired by the fall harvest, Halloween, and Thanksgiving, there are endless possibilities for the perfect table decor.

Here are 10 table settings that I love (plus a bonus one which is my own creation this month). Each unique design captures the spirit of the season and can transform your gatherings into unforgettable moments. Let these ideas spark your creativity, so you too can create a stunning table setting that delights your guests and elevates your gatherings. Embrace the beauty of October—your table deserves it!

1. Delightful Fall Floral Centerpiece

To showcase the beauty of autumn, master gardener Stacy Ling designs an enchanting centerpiece that serves as the focal point of her Harvest Tablescape.

Her delightful color palette of “autumn pinks” is so irresistibly inviting, it makes you want to sit down and enjoy a scrumptious meal.

2. Sophisticated Autumn Luncheon

Holly J.‘s blush color combination, nestled within a soft pink palette, is truly a breath of fresh air.

The rustic elegance of her tablescape, adorned with delicate floral arrangements and textured elements, envelops the space in a tranquil ambiance, exuding a sophisticated charm that invites guests to unwind, indulge, and fully immerse themselves in the serene surroundings.

3. Enchanting Fall Glassware

Rachel of Shades of Blue Interiors has crafted a table that effortlessly blends charm with a hint of mystery. The spellbinding illuminated glass pumpkins, paired with the fresh-cut rose flowers transport guests somewhere between the setting of a romantic fairytale and a Halloween Cozy Mystery novel.

Full disclosure: I’m loving the soft plaid throw layered on the linen tablecloth, and I will definitely incorporate this idea into one of my future tablescapes

4. Blue Modern Fall Tablescape

Who knew the color blue and October could go together like Halloween and candy?
Well, Jane of Jane at Home shows us how to craft a stunning fall-inspired table setting infused with elegant blue hues.

Her modern take on stuffed, linen pumpkins is absolutely magnificent. What a way to elevate an autumn gathering!

5. French Country Fall Table Setting

Here’s another example of how a touch of blue can transform your fall decor!

The use of natural materials and neutral, textured elements provides a solid foundation for the French Country tablescape crafted by Amy Williams of Cuter Tudor. Amy then adds that hint of blue that elevates the entire ambiance, culminating in a breathtaking display that is sure to impress. Absolutely exquisite!

6. Boho Fall Tablescape

This boho-inspired fall table by Holliday of Home with Holliday illustrates how arranging a few simple elements in the right places can create a beautiful tablescape.

Subtle and cool, yet undeniably welcoming, Holliday demonstrates the art of tablescaping perfectly!

7. Traditional Autumn Tablescape

Lori Nell of Southern Nell’s Gracious Living has crafted a charming English countryside-themed tablescape that evokes the elegance of yesteryear.

The combination of brown and bronze hues, complemented by green elements and a splash of deep red, creates a stunning work of art for the table!

8. Boutique Chic Fall Table Setting

The striking black and orange color scheme of this tablescape, designed by Linda of It All Started With Paint, establishes a one-of-a-kind, boutique hotel atmosphere that radiates glamour.

Each element is thoughtfully curated, leaving a lasting impression that truly embodies a stunning aesthetic.

9. Awe-Inspiring Al Fresco Dining in the Fall

Meeghan of Cali Girl in a Southern World takes us to another realm with her stunning al fresco tablescape. Her California roots shine through, giving the setting a vibe reminiscent of a Napa Valley vineyard.

What truly sets Meeghan apart is her artful subtlety in creating this fall tablescape. With just a few simple changes, this setting can effortlessly transition to fit any season. Beautifully executed!

10. Magnificent Coastal Fall Tablescape

If I had a charming house in the Hamptons, I imagine my fall tablescape would reflect the exquisite design crafted by Laura of The Turquoise Home.

Her stunning table setting inspires daydreams, showcasing a captivating blend of soft autumnal hues and natural elements. Each detail radiates an elegant simplicity, inviting guests to savor the warmth and beauty of the season.

Bonus Fall Tablescape: Ode to the Changing Season

A few weeks ago, I created a tablescape in my backyard that celebrates the vibrant colors of the changing season.

Drawing inspiration from the stunning blue table settings above, I chose to incorporate navy blue napkins for a bold pop of color, complemented by rust-colored elements. I also included natural materials, such as a jute table runner, along with different types of metals. The result is a beautiful blend of colors and textures that I hope captures the beauty of nature’s transformations.

The post Tablescape Inspirations: 10 Fall Table Decor Ideas That Will Enhance Your Dining Experience  appeared first on The Working Stay at Home Mom.

– Setting a formal table means using expensive china.   

– Setting a casual table means using plastic utensils.

If you answered true to one or both of these statements, then you need to brush up on your table setting knowledge and you need to read this blog post! 

Setting a table may seem simple, but proper place setting can elevate any dining experience. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just having a family meal, knowing how to set a table correctly is essential.

Picture a beautifully set table—the plates, cutlery, and glassware all perfectly placed in harmony. A well-set table not only sets the tone for a meal but also enhances the overall dining experience. So, let’s break down the basic steps to table setting to help you set a table like a pro.

How to Prepare the Table

Setting a beautiful table doesn’t require magical skills; all it takes is a little love, patience, and inspiration.

Designing a table setting is a lot like designing a room. Just as interior designers combine objects, colors, and patterns to create a specific mood or feeling, the art of table setting incorporates similar elements.

Like interior design styles, place setting also has its own set of guiding principles. 

There are therefore a few things to consider before focusing on the aesthetic aspects of table setting. 

Essential Elements to Consider Before Designing Your Tablescape

Whether you are organizing a formal dinner, a buffet, or even a laid-back cocktail party, you must take three main elements into account before you start developing your tablescape design: your menu, the type of event you are hosting, and your guests.

1. The Menu

Your menu will establish the dinnerware and accessories you’ll need for your guests. The number of courses in your menu will also indicate the formality of the event. For instance, a five or seven-course meal is typically more formal than a meal with three courses or less. 

2. The Type of Event

Next, consider the formality of the event. Does the occasion require you to host a formal or casual meal? Will it be a sit-down dinner or a more casual gathering where guests can mingle? Also, think about the size of the event—is it a small gathering or a large-scale affair? These factors will help determine your table setting requirements.

3. Your Guests

Take into account the preferences and needs of your guests. The place setting for esteemed clients or your boss will differ from that of a weekend family barbecue. Consider the type of people your guests are, your relationship with them, and any special requirements they may have. Considering these details will make the process of designing the perfect table a lot smoother.

Thinking about these 3 essential elements will help you create a tablescape that’s fitting for the occasion and the guests you are hosting.

Types of Table Setting

Basic VS Casual VS Formal Table Setting: What’s the Difference?

Table settings can be categorized into three main types: basic, casual, and formal. Each type of place setting has its own specific guidelines for placement of utensils, dishes, and glassware to create a cohesive and visually appealing dining experience.

Once you have figured-out the three main elements of your event (menu, type of event, and guests), you are ready to determine which type of place setting would be most appropriate.

What Is a Basic Table Setting?

Basic table setting is simple and relaxed, suitable for everyday meals. As the name suggests, a basic place setting consists of only the basic, or essential elements needed to consume the meal. This usually includes: 

• Dinner fork
• Dinner knife
• Spoon 
• Dinner plate 
• Water glass 

How to Set a Basic Table

A basic table setting  is the most commonly used setup for everyday meals and informal dinner parties. It also serves as the foundation for more formal place settings.

To create this type of setting, you must start by placing the dinner plate at the center of your place setting. The fork is then placed on the left of the plate, and the knife on the right. The spoon can be placed to the right of the knife. The water glass should be positioned at the top right corner of your plate, right above the knife.  

It’s important to note that the term “basic” does not refer to the quality or value of the tableware or even the overall “look” of your tablescape. The most beautiful tablescapes can be created with a basic place setting.

As a matter of fact, here are a few gorgeous examples of how you can elevate this very simple way of setting a table. 

The folks at Bless’er House (above) demonstrate how even the most basic place setting can exude elegance.

Jessica Pearsall shows us how a basic place setting can feel bold and oh so beautiful when coordinated with the right colors and accessories.

Finally, Nick and Alicia (below) have beautifully crafted a romantic and dreamy tablescape using only the most basic tableware elements.

Casual Table Setting

A casual table setting starts with the same tableware as a basic place setting, but with a few more elements added to correspond with the meal presented. This usually includes a meal with more than one course, such as a 3-course meal or an even more elaborate menu.

The idea is that the more courses you offer, the more flatware and tableware your guests will need. Items for a casual place setting usually include:

• Salad fork 
• Dinner fork
• Dessert fork 
• Dinner knife
• Spoon 
• Teaspoon
• Salad plate
• Dinner plate 
• Water glass 
• Wine glass

How to Set a Casual Table

Casual table settings are more elaborate and typically used for special occasions or fine dining. Most families will usually set a casual table setting on holidays. 

To set a casual table setting, start by placing the dinner plate in the center. Position the salad and dinner forks to the left of the plate and the knife and spoon to the right. Arrange the water glass above the knife and the wine glass to the right of the water glass. Finally, add a dessert fork and a teaspoon above the plate horizontally.

Casual table settings can have a more relaxed feel or can be of the utmost elegance. Here are a few ideas to use as inspiration.

Barbara from Mantel and Table creates a sophisticated yet casual tablescape fit for royalty. A table like that will make you want to dress up!

The team at Brontë Bride shows us how to elevate casual dining to the next level with a simple yet elegant tablescape that radiates beauty and sophistication:

What is Formal Table Setting?

A formal table setting is characterized by several elements that contribute to a refined dining experience, including a multi-course meal served directly from the kitchen, and the observing proper etiquette for formal gatherings. When setting the table, you are essentially providing your guests with the necessary tools to adhere to the proper etiquette for the event.

Many people mistakenly believe that they are setting a formal table every time they use their best china. However, this is not always the case. In reality, the majority people will only get to be seated at a formally set table a few times in their lives.

In a formal place setting, guests are provided with all the necessary flatware, glasses, and dishes they may require for each of the meal’s courses and accompanying wine. These include: 

• Salad fork 
• Fish fork 
• Dinner fork
• Dessert fork 
• Dinner knife
• Butter knife
• Spoon 
• Teaspoon
• Dinner plate
• Salad plate
• Bread plate
• Soup dish 
• Water glass 
• White wine glass
• Red wine glass 
• Salt and pepper shakers
• Teacup and saucer

Additional tableware, such as a seafood fork, a salad knife, a sherry glass, or a champagne glass, can be added to the formal table setting if the menu or event calls for it. However, since the formal dinner is served directly from the kitchen, additional flatware can be brought in with the serving to avoid overcrowding the table with more than 3 sets of utensils on each side of the plate.

How to Set a Formal Table

In a formal place setting, dinner plates should be placed in front of each chair, one inch from the edge of the table.

Flatware should be placed on both sides of the dinner plate—forks to the left and spoons and knives to the right.

The seafood fork, when needed, can be placed on the right side of the soup spoon. The bread plate is added on the far left and, on the far right, the teacup and saucer; although some prefer bringing the teacup and saucer later on in the evening.

Dessert flatware can be placed on the respective sides of the dinner plate or placed horizontally at the top of the dinner plate. If placed at the top, the teaspoon faces left and the dessert fork faces right (see picture below).

It can clearly be seen why most people do not set a formal table every time they host a dinner party. A formal table setting requires an intricate meal and wine selection that just doesn’t correspond with contemporary traditions.

For example, a classic French meal consists of 13 courses. It’s hard to picture today’s working families going to such an extent every time they host a Friday night dinner with friends! Nevertheless, knowing proper manners and etiquette will help you to play with the guidelines and ultimately, host better dinner parties.

Proper Table Setting

Setting the perfect table for any occasion is a simple yet crucial detail that can elevate your event to the next level. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can create a beautiful and inviting tablescape that will impress your guests. Knowing the official table setting guidelines also allows you to get creative and have fun with your place settings.

Remember to consider the menu, the occasion, and your guests’ preferences when planning your table setting and selecting your tableware and decorations. Click here for more information on dining etiquette. With a little planning and attention to detail, you can set the perfect table for any event with confidence.

Do you have questions about table setting? Contact me or write me a line in the comments below. I will answer your questions to the best of my ability. 

Also, remember to share your beautiful tables #everyday_tablescapes

Talk soon, 

The Working Stay at Home Mom

The post The Complete Guide to Setting the Perfect Table for Any Occasion appeared first on The Working Stay at Home Mom.

I am a little embarrassed to admit it, but I’ve been mulling over all the details of my thanksgiving table setting since August. From the color palettes and potential centerpieces to the choice of dinnerware and whatnots, I have been giving my Thanksgiving table way too much thought!

But alas, in the end, I couldn’t do any of it! I unfortunately sprained my ankle pretty badly and I am now stuck with crutches for a few weeks. Maybe the Good Lord wanted to give me a lesson on giving silly things too much importance or maybe it’s just a bit of bad luck; I’ll never know, I guess. What I do know, however, is that I had to shrink up my ideas of grandeur and present you with a toned down version of what I was going to create.

Despite my slight disappointment of not getting to show off my meticulously planned tablescape, I am extremely happy with the result of this simple, yet elegant Thanksgiving table setting.

My sprained ankle has been a lesson on humility and remembering to focus on what is truly important: being grateful to spend Thanksgiving with the people that I love and am thankful for, despite what the decor looks like!
In the end, I am kinda glad I kept things simple this year, plus, well, there’s always next year

Table Setting Basics

Because of my injury, I wasn’t able to purchase the majority of the last minute stuff I needed, like fresh flowers and greenery, so I had to work with what I had.

About a month ago, I found these beautiful charger plates on sale at Micheal’s, a jute table runner at my local dollar shop and plaid napkins at the grocery store.

All simple stuff that don’t necessarily go together, but they are the foundation of my table setting.

As a matter of fact, I always try to buy pieces that can be used for different occasions. This is what I like about the Micheal’s charger plates I found. They don’t necessarily say “Thanksgiving” or even “autumn”, but pair them with a few seasonal elements, and voilà! They become the perfect base to a Thanksgiving tablescape!

Setting the Table

Because of my injury, we are keeping things casual this year, so I went with my classic off-white dinnerware and blown glass glassware.

Again, I love these pieces because they are so versatile. The off-white dinnerware has a thin gold rim which makes it easy to elevate it from a casual family gathering to a formal dinner event with just a few table accessories.

These plates and glasses are my go-to accessories for most of my table settings. They are like that little black dress that easily transitions from casual wear to evening wear with just a change of shoes.

Once I had all elements figured-out, it was time to get to work.

Table Setting Steps

I started by placing the jute table runner at the center of the table, with charger plates on each side of it. Then, I moved on to dinnerware and glassware.

Now, just like this, the table looked quite pretty, and I think that most people stop there with their table setting. However, that is the equivalent to wearing a beautiful outfit with no jewelry or any kind of accessories: it looks a little bland.

Tablescaping is all about adding layer upon layer to create a beautiful dining experience.

So I looked around the house and decided to add the lantern that usually sits on my mantle and white large ceramic vases that would create balance on either side of the lantern.

Then, it was time to add some color.

I stuck with the autumn theme and added a beautiful leaf garland and various pumpkins to the mix.

The end result was a beautiful fall inspired Thanksgiving table setting that was very easy to put together, even with crutches!

I hope this has inspired you to add a little something extra to your next Holiday table setting.

Happy Thanksgiving and God bless,

Talk soon,

The Working Stay at Home Mom

The post How to Create a Beautiful Yet Easy Thanksgiving Table Setting appeared first on The Working Stay at Home Mom.