The Art of the Tablescape

Black candlesticks with mini cow skulls affixed create a whimsical focal point and give scale to this western tablescape. Image by Hi-End Accents.

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Nothing sets the stage for a family gathering or celebration with friends like a beautiful tablescape. And while some may feel less than qualified to create one, anyone can do it, really. All it takes is a little imagination, the creative use of the resources available to you and maybe a trip or two to your favorite store or website. Here, we lay out the steps to creating a beautiful tablescape. 

Design around a theme, mood or occasion

Every tablescape begins with some sort of inspiration—a theme, a mood, or an occasion—as its starting point. Once this is defined, everything flows from there. Here are a few examples to help get you started. 

Theme: Western Yellowstone cowboy theme, Mediterranean or Gatsby (glam, upscale). 

Mood: Romantic, family-friendly, celebratory, sentimental throwback (like an old timey tea party)

Occasion: Holidays (Christmas, New Year’s, birthdays, Easter, 4th of July) and Celebrations (promotion at work, gender reveal, end of the school year bash), etc.

A red and white-themed tablescape bursting with peppermint, ginger bread houses and pom pom wreaths provides a magical setting for this Hot Cocoa Bar. Photo: Raz Imports

Start with a centerpiece/focal point

A blue and white daisy tablecloth complemented by linen napkins, white stoneware and a vintage pitcher filled with a lovely bouquet create a simple yet elegant setting for afternoon tea. Photo: Park Designs

Center your design around either one big piece or a few smaller pieces along the same theme. For example a tablescape with a winter theme may include a cabin cookie jar with the lid ajar tucked into pine sprigs and aspen candles on a coordinating table runner or tablecloth. A nature inspired tablescape may feature autumn leaves scattered down the center with gourds, tiny pumpkins and burnished brass candlesticks.

Pinecones and holly leaves nestled into winter greens, winter tree candles and reindeer statuettes are complemented by winter-themed dishes. Photo: Sullivan Gift

Layer in texture with textiles

Natural elements are subtly incorporated with different textures and layers for a Lodge motif tablescape. Photo: Park Designs

Once you choose a focal point for the center of the table, layer in different textures to add visual interest and personality. Textiles such as placemats, table runners, tablecloths and napkins add color, pattern and warmth to your tablescape. Tablecloths, in fact, are making a huge comeback as homeowners are tapping into a yearning for nostalgia. Incorporate linens handed down from your family or antique linens you’ve picked up along the way. Mix and match textiles for a unique, curated look. For example, a solid denim tablecloth layered with a rustic burlap runner (or gauzy gold netting for a little more pizzazz) and vintage napkins with a scalloped edge would be the ideal setting for a Farmhouse Chic tablescape.  

Layer and mix and match motifs and patterns of tablecloths, table runners and napkins to create your own style. Photos: Tag, Ltd.

Add in the details

Tablescapes can be created on multiple surfaces, not just dining tables. This sideboard is a perfect space to switch out for different seasons and occasions. It would be the perfect setting for a charcuterie or cocktail station. Photo: Raz Imports

This is where the fun really begins! Accessories for the table come in a dizzying array of options. From perfectly matched vintage china to beautiful, durable paper plates (which have come a long way), glasses and cups in every shape and style and utensils from simply elegant to specifically themed; there is something along the spectrum for every occasion. Add in extra touches like themed salt and pepper shakers, interesting napkin holders, shiny or textured charger plates, sugar and creamer sets and more.

For a casual, eclectic look use mismatched dishes and utensils. Throw in whimsical touches like bandana napkins and canning jar beverage glasses. For a striking, refined look, color coordinate the entire tablescape from linens to tableware to accessories. Imagine a pristine white tablecloth topped with fine white china, crystal goblets, beautiful beaded napkin holders and tall white tapers perched in a line of crystal candlesticks down the center of the table.

Most importantly, get creative!

Color-coordinated textiles and accessories create a whimsical Christmas motif. Photo: Park Designs

Don’t make it a chore, have fun! Collaborate with another creative person to come up with unexpected touches. Pull in unique items pulled from your personal collection to showcase your style and personality. For instance, display antique thread spools on a sewing themed table or create a focal point with bobble-head sports figures for a football pregame. 

Infuse your tablescape with color to set the mood for a joyous occasion and sprinkle sparkly confetti down the center of the table. Use natural elements such as greenery, dried branches, nuts, berries, sea shells, even fruits and vegetable grouped together. A themed tablescape can be a fun opportunity to incorporate the hokiest, kitschy items you can find.  Get silly!

Whatever strikes your fancy, play around and stretch your imagination to create a tablescape that will set the stage for a lovely, memorable time with friends and loved ones.

Elizabeth Douville is President at Teton Timberline Trading, a 100% female-owned e-commerce company based out of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offering “modern meets traditional” quality cabin decor and linens. View their profile or contact Liz at tetonttrading@gmail.com.

Content for this article provided by Teton Timberline Trading.