Earlier this year, one of my followers requested a post featuring table décor inspirations for year-round events. I discovered so many ideas that it will require two posts: Part 1 covers elements used in table décor, including decorations, lighting, food presentation, etc.; Part 2 features table décor designs for most holidays and special occasions throughout the year. Let’s get started…

Balloons, Fabric & 3-Dimensional Design

When planning your table décor, remember to think in three dimensions. The space above the table, including the ceiling, can be incorporated into your design.

Balloon Bouquets

Balloons have come a long way from the old days. The varieties include patterns, multicolor, & foil, in multiple shapes and sizes, including favorite characters from movies, comic books and cartoons.

Candles

Sweet fragrances, beautiful colors, and romantic lighting are all benefits of candles.

Color Theme: Pink

The theme for table décor is often drawn from the occasion, such as red for Valentine’s Day, but you may choose any theme that comes to mind, such as your favorite color.

Color Theme: Red & Gold

Want to create some drama? Choose bold color combinations for an eye-catching table.

Floral Centerpieces

Contrary to popular belief, the centerpiece does not have to be in the center. This off-center fresh cut floral centerpiece, with coordinating draped fabric, provides plenty of room for place settings, in an artfully designed composition.

Silk Flowers

Silk flowers are easy to work with and can be reused for future events.

Floral Focal Points at Varying Heights

Varying the heights of your décor creates visual interest and appeal.

Food Presentation

If you have culinary skills, be sure to showcase your talents as food becomes part of your table décor. We eat with our eyes first, so create a mouthwatering masterpiece for your guests to enjoy.

Lighting

Lighting sets the mood and tone for any occasion.

Lighting – Specialty

Depending upon the setting, lights can be suspended above the table or around the perimeter of the room, adding warmth and perhaps a bit of whimsy.

Folded Napkin Art

Simple linen napkins can be elevated to an art form via napkin folding techniques. Many how-to videos are available online.

Place Settings – Simple

These cool matte gray dishes are accented by shiny gold rims, paired with gold flatware and accessories. The gold toned wood tabletop serves as the perfect backdrop.

Place Settings – Layered

Multiple layers of coordinating or contrasting elements include tablecloths and/or placemats, chargers, varying plate sizes, napkins & rings, and place cards,

Festive Tablecloths

Tablecloths in every color and infinite patterns are easily found online or in stores for every possible occasion. Lace tablecloths can be layered over solid colors. As an alternative, you can purchase fabric and drape it over the table for a one-of-a-kind look. 

Seasonal Décor

Consider using many elements associated with the occasion being celebrated, such as small, wrapped gift boxes at Christmas, or chocolates for Valentines Day or Easter. Adding items such as evergreen, sliced oranges, or cinnamon scent the air with sweet seasonal fragrances.

Thinking Outside the Box:

Location, Location, Location

Where will you place your table? Is it an indoor or outdoor location? Will it be freestanding or up against a wall. Let the location inspire your design.

Table & Chairs

Will you be using a traditional table and chairs? Will your guests dine at the table, or will it be buffet style? Could you serve appetizers on bar top tables?

Local Flavor

This can include natural elements, such as sand & seashells for the beach, or pinecones & evergreen for the mountains. Local flavor also refers to cultural décor and traditions.

Floral Table Runner

Not all table runners have to be fabric, although traditional ones come in a variety of materials and often have decorative needlework or intricate lace patterns. As an alternative, fresh cut or silk flowers can serve as table runners as shown above. Silk garlands are a very simple way to achieve the same look.

Floating Floral Centerpiece

Water features are often overlooked in table décor. Floating flowers or petals lends a peaceful, Zen-like quality to your design.

Floating Folded Napkin Art

Years ago, my family had a party under a large tent. Water filled bowls with floating flowers served as centerpieces. Thick lush blooms were our first choice, but none were available. We used Gerber daisies, which were pretty but lacked the three-dimensional effect we wanted. Napkins folded into large blooms might be the solution. Someday I’ll experiment with this idea and let you know the results. Do you have any suggestions?

I hope you enjoyed this exploration of table décor. Please click here to read part two, featuring table décor designs for all occasions. What is your favorite holiday or occasion for decorating? Do you have any ideas to share? Please let me know in the comments.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!