Here in the Texas Hill Country, it is a cultural norm to spend free time outside underneath oak trees, around a long picnic table with friends both old and new. Usually, good food and drinks fill the table and live music is playing in the background. I often find myself paying attention to laughter and conversations at tables around mine and noticing how spending time outside, in nature, can bring people together.
Similarly, a beautifully set table can bring people together. I enjoy creating a space to make my family and guests feel special and like I did something just to express love. A set table is a little treat in life with a twofold purpose: to foster connection, and to freely offer beauty to others.
During one of my many tablescaping episodes, I pondered the reasons I delight in the act of setting the table, and it dawned on me – a set table is a small way that I can reflect the offer of connection and beauty that Mother Nature provides. These same reflections are the inspiration for Elmsgrove Lane, a place where my value of nature and real, whole foods intersects with an appreciation for beauty and aesthetics.
To encourage connection in your life and your home, below I have included my nature-inspired guide for setting the table. These perennial tips can be used for gatherings big and small to create the same magic and togetherness that we all feel under the Hill Country oaks.
Use Nature as Your Guide
Find inspiration for your next gathering outdoors. Observe the way nature has decorated the outside landscape, and mirror what you find on your table.
Consider the different textures and patterns that you see outside. If there are red and yellow leaves falling and a chill in the air, can you create a tablescape with rich, warm colors and crisp, clean lines? Using nature as your guide can provide plenty of inspiration, and allows the season to play the role of setting the background for your gathering.
Choose a Seasonally-Appropriate Location
Where will your event be located? If weather permits, consider an al fresco setting. If the weather is cold or even rainy, host your event indoors and consider ways you might incorporate other seasonal elements (like a lit fireplace or Christmas tree lighting the room) into the overall ambiance of the event.
Collect Perennial Pieces
The same tree that blooms in spring is just as beautiful when its colors change in autumn. Similarly, collecting great base pieces to be enjoyed perennially is both cost-effective and sustainable.
My favorite base piece that I love to use at all types of events (including my own wedding) is a green floral tablecloth. I actually have collected a few because I enjoy them so much, year-round! Identifying a favorite neutral color and pattern gives way to a familiarity and simplicity to your table, which nods to the steadfastness and consistency of the outdoors.
Always opt for seasonless, natural textures where possible. An Elmsgrove Lane favorite is rattan, which is a lovely natural texture to incorporate via chargers or even napkin rings.
For seasonal character, you can swap out smaller pieces like napkins or seasonal centerpieces based on the time of year and theme of the event.
Unite Old and New
Try mixing and matching china and serveware for a unique, collected look. I love creating table settings that have their own unique personality, and blending heirloom, vintage, and modern pieces is a great way to add character to any design. Like a field of wildflowers, variety within a single view can make for a truly stunning landscape.
Opt for Natural Decor and Centerpieces
One of my favorite tips is to choose natural centerpieces that reflect the season. You can even try to forage lovely branches and flowers to bring nature to the center of the table. Another option is to utilize cut flowers or homegrown fruit and veggies from your garden as decor. Not only does this add seasonal beauty and color to your tablescape, it is also an environmentally friendly option to select natural materials over manmade materials, which often comprise centerpieces that you can buy in the store. I love the look of terracotta pots with boxwoods year round. In the winter, you can even add a pretty red velvet bow for a seasonal touch.
Always remember that the table is a place for community and connection. Be mindful when creating your natural centerpieces not to make them too tall or obstructive to block views and conversations across the table.
Capture the Beauty of Light
Good lighting can truly make a space. Much like dappled sunlight through tree branches or the soft glow of golden hour, lighting can set the tone for any gathering.
I love to capture the beauty of light with candles (read more on how to choose healthy candles for your home LINK). In winter, can you set a moody atmosphere and opt for lower lighting as a nod to the darker evenings nature provides? While there should always be enough light for the setting to be usable for the gathering, I think a soft glow is a gorgeous night time option.
You can also experiment with different types and heights of candles or tabletop lamps to set the mood! If your event is outside, fairy lights are another fun option to add ambiance to the evening.
Add a Personal Touch
I love to take a little extra time to add personal touches to a table setting. From a handwritten note to a special place card, there are so many ways to give your event extra intentionality.
Consider A Seasonal, Locally-Sourced Menu
Choose a locally sourced menu, shopping from farmer’s markets and local growers wherever possible. Nature will surely be at the center of your table, with in-season produce that have plentiful health benefits as well. Choosing local sources for your foods is also a great conversation starter for sharing about local farms and businesses.
Bonus: Incorporate an Activity to Bring Guests Together
I love the idea of hosting a small activity between the dinner and dessert courses to create an experience over which guests can connect. In spring and summer, can you do a simple craft with cut flowers? What about making pomanders with oranges and whole clovers for a cold weather gathering? These fun activities can be great ways to create memories and camaraderie with your guests. It’s also always nice to leave with a little party favor!
I love to source inspiration for both my decor and entertaining from nature. Bringing the beauty of the outdoors to the center of the table is not only a gorgeous but sustainable way to host your next gathering.
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