Designing your own tablescapes is a lot of fun! You can experiment with many different combinations and themes to find what works for your style.

But before you get to the fun part, there are many do’s and don’ts that you need to take into account. 

We’ve rounded up some of the most important ones here so that your tablescape will be picture-perfect every time.

The Do’s of Tablescaping

Do have a theme

Having a pre-set theme helps to create the desired mood for your party. Whether you want to create a romantic, fun, or ultra-elegant tablescape, the theme will be a spectacular guide for your entire tablescape.

A theme lets you have a lot of fun with your tablescapes, but it also helps you to focus on details that set your table apart. 

Do mix & match 

Don’t be afraid to be bold when choosing the accessories for a tablescape. Mix and match different styles to create a look that is uniquely yours.

Sometimes, busy patterns can look great alongside one another, as long as the colors coordinate.

Do use natural elements

Liven up the table by using flowers, foliage, fruit, or vegetables in your tablescape to provide texture, color, and fragrance. 

Displaying natural elements helps you to connect even more to the seasons and the celebration that you’re creating.

Do use the rule of 3’s 

The rule of 3’s is a tried and true design principle that means you should have an odd number of repetitions when using flowers or accents. 

It works because our brains process information better when it’s in small groups and makes the objects we’re looking at more appealing, memorable, and effective than even-numbered arrangements.

Do play with the height 

Items of different heights create variety and visual interest. Varying the height of all the objects in your decor also makes your tablescape appear fuller and finished.   

Quick Tip: Be mindful of your guests.  Don’t create a tablescape that prevents guests from seeing and speaking to each other from across the table. 

Do reuse and recycle

I always reuse the centerpieces I create so don’t be afraid to enjoy your favorite table accessories in new ways. 

Oftentimes I invite my guests to take home fresh flowers that were part of the table setting at the end of the night. This ensures that my arrangements don’t go to waste! 

Do consider the lighting

Tablescapes are meant to catch your attention from across the room. Having a consistent, beautiful glow across your table will keep people looking. 

My go-to solution is candles! They’re inexpensive and can add a feeling of romance to any tablescape. 

Quick Tip: The secret to having a consistent glow is to use several sources of lighting throughout the room. 

The Don’ts of Tablescaping

Don’t overset the table

Overcrowding the table with too many pieces or accessories will make your tablescape appear unfinished and cluttered.

Don’t add too many colours

Try to use a maximum of 3 different colors with your accent pieces and flowers for an elegant look. 

Don’t forget about texture

Adding texture is an excellent way to bring warmth and interest to your tablescape. Use materials such as wood, leather, wicker, fur or silk in moderation to add sophistication and flair.

Don’t overpower the dining room with fragrance

Don’t choose a centerpiece with an overpowering aroma. Stay away from scented candles and very fragrant flowers. You don’t want the décor to upstage your amazing meal.

Don’t mix the eras

Remember that each era has its own unique style and design. To create a cohesive look, try to avoid mixing the decades. So, if you decide to create a modern look go modern and don’t mix it with country style. 

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box

Look around the home for interesting vessels for your centerpiece flower arrangements and accessories. 

Unusual containers make the best centerpieces, things such as birch bark, old wooden boxes, or hand-blown glass can be used as vases to add interest and originality to your tablescape.

Don’t overstress perfection

If you’re having a lot of fun with your tablescape, don’t worry about perfection! Just enjoy the process and results. You can always go back over a missing item or adjustment and make it perfect.

Stuck in a decorating rut? Give my blog a read to get inspired. 

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