I was recently asked to decorate some holiday tables for an Open House at
Picket Fence Homes in Leesburg, Virginia.
The first was a snowman-themed table for four starring a jolly fellow perched atop a bed of marshmallow snowballs. Completing the scene were snowman mugs and whimsical paper placemats.
The "tablecloth" was actually a chalkboard paper runner with a message on the front written in chalkboard marker.
The second table was a romantic setting for two, decorated with an intimate New Years Eve in mind.
Gold chargers, glittery silver ferns, beaded gift boxes and martini glasses full of treats created a festive, sophisticated mood.
Inspirations, instead of names, were in the placecard holders.
And a little Picket Fence wine doesn't hurt, either!
Our last table had a natural, woodland theme and featured a tree branch suspended from the ceiling, resplendent with old fashioned tinsel. (Use your imagination - it IS a conference room, after all!)
A carved wood stag sits as centerpiece among white pine table runners and glittered pine cones and leaves.
Cranberry colored chargers and plates featuring birds complete the picture.
Here are my guidelines for Setting a Festive Table:
Theme - choose one, however subtle it may be
Layer - texture, color or pattern
Shine - add metallic accents for some shimmer
Surprise! - use an accessory in an unusual way (like the marshmallows)
Glow - soften the light with candles or a dimmer switch
Remember my mantra: Pleasing, not Perfect!!
Many thanks to all the fun people at Picket Fence Homes - 212 S. King St., Leesburg VA 20175
They were expert hot chocolate makers and also provided the holiday recipe cards that we gave away.
