With the new season in full bloom, what better way to celebrate than to invite some friends and family over for a get together?! In preparation, why not indulge your creative side, by styling a beautiful tablescape bursting with spring colour?
At this time of year I’m particularly drawn to designs and colours that are uplifting, fresh and light, and of course turning to my garden for inspiration is a must, (if you don’t have a garden, then try some responsible foraging or your local florist).
Other than any consumables you might need, there’s no need to spend money of creating your table design – simply utilise your existing decorative items. I always turn to my timeless, neutral ceramics and linens and mix those with playful, mood-boosting pops of colour that catch the eye.
I then layer contrasting table linens, colourful candles and vases filled with gorgeous, wild-looking flowers, for a sumptuous, yet relaxed vibe where we can sit back, enjoy good food and good conversation.
Tips for styling a spring tablescape
Plan ahead
Leave yourself enough time to play, and create a feast for the eyes with colourful table linen, flowers and candles that have been selected to work in harmony together. Look to nature for colour inspiration and pick out seasonal flowers and foliage from your garden, hedgerows and grass verges or your local florist.
Choose your colours to set the mood
The colours you choose for your tabletop are key to the vibe you’re going for. Use soft, organic colours together to create a feeling of warmth and intimacy. Dusky pinks, pale powdery blues and lilac are nature’s most tranquil colours. I like to add a counterpoint with a contrasting colour or tone to create balance throughout my table.
Layer your tabletop
Adding layers to your table and serveware creates an elevated level of warmth and using beautifully toned colours enhances the overall aesthetic. Try adding a table runner as well as placemats, napkins, candles and flowers to add some texture, colour and personality.
Add texture
Textural accents help create a more visually exciting tabletop. A woven bread basket, rattan pieces and wooden utensils will add warmth and depth. Raid your garden or crisper drawer for beautifully-hued fruits that will add texture and colour (papaya and strawberries are great for summer). I’ve used bowls of flat peaches and apricots that match the soft muted tones of my flowers, and lemons for a pop of brighter colour. Some sable grapes pick up the deep aubergine of the heuchera leaves and black elder stems in my arrangement. In the place settings bowls, I’ve used persimmoms that mirror the tangerine ranunculus I’ve used.
Enjoy it!
Above all, the key thing to remember is to enjoy the creative process, which will be ruined by putting any kind of pressure on yourself to make it perfect. Give yourself time to play and experiment. Then stand back and take in what you’ve created, If the past few years have taught me anything, it’s to take time to indulge in the small pleasures that can bring a flutter of joy, no matter how small.
See Claire’s website Paper Thin Moon for more styling ideas and beautiful ceramics and floral-inspired decor
