We don't entertain much unless it is in the summer and we can host in something in the backyard. Our dining room is just too small. It fits our family perfectly but there is no room for extra people. But even though we don't have dinner parties, I still attempt to decorate the table occasionally for our family. It helps us work on our manners (and by "we" I of course mean my four boys) and is a fun departure from the everyday norm.
Our table is so narrow, that by the time you put the plates down, there is only a tiny strip of table down the center. There is not any room for serving bowls full of food, pitchers of water, or baskets of rolls. And I have to get really creative when it comes to any kind of table top decor.
I have teamed up again with Better Homes And Gardens at Walmart to share my Fall tablescape.
Here are a few tips for creating a simple and inexpensive tablescape.
#1 Shop Your House
Use what you already have. Look around your house and find candlesticks, bowls, baskets, or even books. It is just temporary and then you can put them back where you borrowed them. I re-used these DIY candlesticks I made last year.
Tip #2 Bring The Outdoors In
Gather items from your own backyard, or a nearby park. Natural elements add color and texture. Whether it is acorns, pinecones, twigs, or leaves, it will add that extra touch your table needs. And best of all, it is free!
I went around my yard collecting leaves. When I came inside they were all stacked together in the order I had picked them. It looked like a rainbow! It gave me the idea to lay them down in that way on the table.
Tip #3 Personalize It
Add simple name tags! I used these gift tags I had left over from last year. You could even simply write their name on a paper in your best handwriting. It is all about the little details. And it shows your guests you went the extra mile.
Tip#4 Splurge On One Item
If you are going to splurge, pick one item to buy new. I have used my current dishes for a long time and I really wanted something fresh. I decided that the one new thing I would buy would be some new dinner plates. I am not sure if you can even call these a splurge since all 6 plates cost less than $24, but I fell in love with the design and needed them :) They are from the Better Homes And Gardens collection at Walmart.
I used the smaller plates from my dishes I already had. I thought they paired well together. I think next year I will add a colorful plate on top for even more color!
(source: Walmart)
Getting your table ready for guests this Holiday season shouldn't be expensive or stressful. A few simple steps is all it takes. What are your favorite things to use when decorating a table?
*I was compensated by Better Homes and Gardens at Walmart for this post but the ideas, pictures, and thoughts are all mine.
Beautiful! I love shopping my house :) everything looks great!
Debbie
It's beautiful. Love those gorgeous plates and your place setting tags are such a clever idea.
So simple and sweet, Stacy! I love those plates!
It's so pretty Stacy! I love how simple and beautiful it is. :) I also love those dishes, I'll have to check those out!
Anna
Great tips! I LOVE the rainbow effect with the leaves. Those plates are gorgeous!! I prefer white plates b/c I can mix and match them with different serving pieces. Your tablescape looks great. :)
Super sweet...love your placecards on the napkins! So clever!
Your ombre leaf table runner is brilliant, Stacy!
Such a lovely table. I love the white dishes against the dark wood of the table.
love this!! such great tips!
Your tablescape is beautiful! I love that Walmart has started to carry such pretty things. I'll definitely have to stop in and check out the BHG line!
So simple and beautiful at the same time! Thanks for the tips!
Such a gorgeous table. Great tips too.
This is so beautiful! I love your tips!
I am in love with your rainbow leaves :) What a pretty table!
beautiful. A lovely way to set a holiday table. Hugs!
This looks gorgeous! Two years ago, I "shopped my house" and decided to make custom place mats for all of our guests. It took a little work, but totally worth it when everyone came to sit at the table.
Love this Stacy! Great post!
Wow, what a wonderful idea! I love the tables decor!
xx