Setting a table goes beyond cutlery and china; everything from the tablecloth to the flowers should be arranged in order to enhance your guests’ experience.

A well-thought-out table setting is the key to any successful dinner party, no matter the occasion. With just a few thoughtful actions, you can create a table that will make your guests feel immersed in your vision, totally enthralled by the experience.

That is exactly what I set out to do when I was invited to create this retro-chic tablescape.

Scope: Intimate birthday dinner party
Theme: Retro-chic
Location: the Ministry of Crab, Shanghai

Consider your venue

With any table you create, whether it is in your home, outdoors or in a restaurant – as it is the case here- it’s crucial that you take time to examine your venue.

Before going to work on your design, make sure that your creation will fit in this environment, otherwise, your tablescape and guests will feel out of place.

Cultivating an analytical eye may seem hard to do, but it’s not too difficult to practice once you understand what you are looking for.

Take a look at your space and find the elements that will best accentuate your design.

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Examine existing characteristics such as lighting, window frames, the table shape, the chairs, the height of the ceiling, etc. Once you have a better understanding of your surroundings, you can more easily come up with a design that will work within your environment.

Concept in action

In my case, the venue of the party featured these impressive pointed-arch windows, hanging mirrors and light fixtures that invoke a Moroccan influence.

I wanted to incorporate some of this architecture into my design, which is why I chose to use this ornate retro tablecloth.

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Creative retro-chic color schemes

When choosing your colour scheme, I encourage you to experiment with eclectic decor, especially if the occasion suits.

In this case, it certainly did!

Once again, looking around the room I noticed these matt gold Moroccan lamps hanging over the table that fit perfectly with my blue & gold tablecloth.

For the plates, I opted for classic white to create contrast against the vibrant elements, and layered atop matching ginger yellow napkins.

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To add that extra special touch to my napkin, I added a flower boutonniere. This subtle nod to the occasion makes the table looks more dressed up and refined.

DIY your Centerpiece

The theme, overall vibe & colours of this celebration continue right through to the centrepiece.

I love to create unique centerpieces for each occasion, and this table is no different.

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To DIY this at home, all you need is:

• twigs
• wire
• floral foam
• fresh flowers of your choice

The flowers I used are:

• Flame Lilies
• Chamelaucium

Here’s a quick assembly video.

When you’re finished with your tablescape design, take a step back for one final look.

Notice how the scene in front of you oozes cohesiveness, comfort, and features something unusual that catches the eye. This feeling is why you do what you do. This sensation is what you want your guests to feel when they walk into your party.

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The table is set! Now, it’s time to celebrate.

For more ideas & DIY decor, follow me on instagram.

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