I always love setting the table for dinner parties. Whether it’s a big traditional family meal like Thanksgiving or a smaller casual dinner, setting the table gets me in the mood and sets the stage for your gathering. I like to keep a table clean and simple. I tend to use seasonal items like fruits, flowers, greenery and candles to accessorize my dishes and flatware. Depending on the occasion I may or may not opt for a tablecloth, up to you. My newest favorite is from Restoration Hardware. They have to softest prettiest stonewashed linen tablecloths and napkins in so many gorgeous colors and sizes. I really like the Belgian Linen tablecloth in white or fog.
This table setting uses leaves I cut from my tree along with pomegranates and miniature white pumpkins I bought at my local market. Really simple, right? I have been collecting this beautiful fall inspired set of Williams-Sonoma Home Spode serving pieces for years. It’s a shame they don’t make it any longer as it is my favorite this time of year. I have 3 pieces that work perfectly on any fall table. I like to keep glassware and dinnerware simple. Clean lines and neutral colors allow the food to take center stage. Simple votives from West Elm in mercury glass add a touch of fall color without screaming cornucopia!
I also really love the trend to mix and match your seating. I have 8 around my table for everyday, but have found our dinners are usually 10-12 people. Too many chairs for my tiny dining room everyday. I searched recently for some stacking chairs that I can use indoors or out to expand our seating options. I needed a compact chair to work around my table in our little space. The black spindle chairs are an affordable option from Design Within Reach (but don’t stack) and the Galvanized Farmhouse chair from Ballard Designs stack easily for storing. Bonus is they can be used outdoors as well. Be bold and mix it up!
votives | west elm
dishes | sur la table
silverware | vintage
crystal | waterford
For a touch of whimsy, I added several branches of Eucalyptus leaves to the chandelier. It was a simple touch to finish off the setting and reminded me of sitting outdoors under a tree canopy. It’s also lovely to drape along the table as a centerpiece or to dress up a table runner. Add it to your bar as well to continue the theme throughout your party. There’s no right way to do it, that’s the beauty of using greenery, it’s organic and pretty all on its own.
Some tips for easy dinner party prep:
4-5 days out meal plan, consider make ahead meals
2-3 days out set your table. Check out these ideas for some pretty inspiration.
1-2 days out grocery shop
Day before prep centerpiece and florals around your home, don’t forget the powder room!
Morning of prep meal, salad, salad dressing. Be sure to include one “assemble only” appetizer or dessert and one already made, store/bakery purchased side dish or dessert. My all time favorite dessert that is the simplest thing ever, Affogato! Simple Simple, delicious, and makes an impact upon serving.
Set your table with love, relax and enjoy your party!
ps. more fall table inspiration
