Striking Dining Table Settings to Impress Guests
Martha Stewart has nothing on these gorgeous table settings that will have guests thanking you for the meal before the food is even served
Sharing food with friends or family is one of life’s great pleasures, but turning your next social gathering into a truly special occasion does take some planning.
These creative table setting ideas are sure to make the compliments flow.
These creative table setting ideas are sure to make the compliments flow.
Simply does it. This chic table setting isn’t complicated, but its black-and-white tones work beautifully with the greys of the worn wooden table and cane seating. Before it’s time to eat and the dramatic centrepieces are replaced with platters of delicious food, your guests will be treated to a feast for the eyes.
Organic treat. Lemon-laden branches draped across the centre of the table add colour and interest to this table setting, and contrast nicely with the blue-and-white colour scheme of the china.
VIP touch. Make each guest feel special with their own place-setting treat – a custom traditionally reserved for weddings. When it comes time to dine, it’s easy to move the small vases into the centre of the table. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Theme time. This light and airy home is the perfect place for a beach-themed lunch with friends. Layer fabric to create a unique table runner, and scatter around seashells to complete the look.
Texture treatment. The gorgeous base plates in this table setting speak of the wholesome and delicious flavours still to come. The rustic, farmhouse feel is enhanced via the hessian table runner.
Say it with flowers. An assortment of fresh flowers clustered in glass vases makes any table look beautiful. This breakfast setting is sure to impress any guests sleeping over or turning up for brunch.
Mix and match. Don’t be too concerned if you don’t have a ‘good set’ of crockery to make your table setting extra special. Mismatched plates, cups and bowls can work just as well if you stick to a theme or palette. Browse antique stores and op shops to gather your pieces.
Head outside. When the weather’s fine, throw a tablecloth on an outdoor table (or move the dining table and chairs outside), and break out the good napery. Look beyond what’s on the table when you’re setting the scene; the hanging lanterns here add a special brush of magic.
Spring for a smile. Some table settings work simply because there’s a surprise element that get guests talking. The mason jars used in this charming setting as drinking glasses add retro appeal; fill them with a colourful cocktail or mocktail for added effect.
Party starters. Chairs as colourful as these will splash festive cheer over any occasion, but there’s no need to paint your chairs pink to create a colourful table setting. Running lengths of brightly patterned fabric widthways across the table will get guests into the party mood, and still more splashes of colour can be added with flowers, glassware and napkins.