Tablescape (n.) – An artistic arrangement of items gathered into a grouping and placed on a table. If you’ve ever hosted a party or planned an event you know that knowing what a tablescape is and knowing how to create one are two very different things. For amateur and seasoned entertainers alike, creating a tablescape that is as beautiful as it is functional can be a daunting task. Here are some tips on how to get it right:
Don’t Be Afraid of Dimension – A flat, one-dimensional table is exactly that: flat and boring! Add depth to your table by utilizing items that create varying heights. Tiered trays, small wooden boxes that are sturdy enough to support the weight of a serving platter are easy, inexpensive ways to accomplish your goal of creating an interesting tablescape with dimensionality. Lucite containers in a square, circular or rectangular shape are also great options and can be found at retailers all over the country (hint: The Container Store has a vast collection of Lucite containers in varying sizes, shapes and colors.)
Keep The Kids Entertained – As any parent will tell you, keeping kids occupied and in their designated seats is one of the toughest parts of any party or event. Bypass this problem by creating an interactive tablescape to help keep the kids entertained. Create a special runner for the kids’ table using a piece of long narrow felt (which can be purchased at Michael’s or any other craft store.) Scatter small foam shapes all over the table, give each child their own adhesive and let them decorate their own portion of the runner. (Hold The Foam is a no-run, fast dry glue product that’s great for this type of project.)
Leave It To The Experts – Many people are under the misguided impressions that event specialists and party planners are just for weddings, conventions and large scale events. Not true! Here at Kensington we regularly take on a variety of holiday projects ranging from creating floral centerpieces for at-home dinners to planning and producing employee parties for major corporations.
Check out some of the tablescapes we’ve created below…
