As the festive season draws closer, so does the urge to make things a little more special. For me that means setting a gorgeous table complete with flowers, candles and a few other decor pieces. But knowing where to start can be intimidating. Especially if you have never set a table before. Which is why today I am sharing some go to tips and tricks for setting a beautiful table.

1. Table clothe: The first step is to start with a beautiful table clothe. Personally I like to source mine from second hand shops and thrift stores. This way I cab collect a a few in a variety of shapes, shades and textures. Whilst I am not a fan of table clothes for daily use, I do love them for special occasions or when entertaining.
2. Placemats: My husband has a thing where he wont eat or sit down at a table without a placemat. This has meant that we always keep a good variety at hand. Placemats are not just to protect your table but they also help give your table more visual texture and height. I love rattan and grass woven placemats for that organic feel.
3. Candles: Nothing says luxury like a candle. From simple white dinner candles to more sultry ones. Candles are a great way to set the mood.
4. Flowers/greenery: Again adding touches of greenery and/or color not only looks visually appealing, but also makes any meal feel more special. Not only that but the smell of fresh flowers is enough to trick you into thinking you are eating somewhere exotic.
5. Good silverware: There are forks and then there are FORKS. You know the ones? The ones you find in hotels or fancy restaurants that you can see your reflection on. Whilst I am yet to find my go to silverware, I have seen how good cutlery can elevate a table and make it feel special.
6. Dinner wear: When setting a table for special occasions I like to make sure that I have at least two plates per person. This can be a dinner plate plus side plate. Or a dinner plate and a bowl. What ever combination you choose, make sure they are complimentary and are of different sizes.
7. A variety of glasses: Like the plates, ensuring you have a few glasses at your table adds that extra bit of oomph to the table. As a wine lover I usually like to go with a white wine glass, a red one glass and a water/drinking glass. But you can cut back and just have one wine glass and one water glass. Even if you don’t drink wine, the height difference the glasses will make and the reflection of the candles of them will be worth it. After all, who says you can’t drink juice from a wine glass?

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