The table is a stage by which to set the party drama, with family and friends as the starring characters. Seating plans are a vital ingredient, to ensure that all your guests have leading roles and nobody finds themselves cast as the extra.
Taking time to plan, create and stage this in advance will break up cliques and partners and ensure that singles are not isolated. This can allow for new unexpected plots, improvisations and monologues but you may wish to avoid any potential drama.
Clever use of place settings from calligraphy on handmade paper to notions and keepsakes will break the ice and guide your guest to their seat.
Alternatively ask your guests for a photo in advance (this could also act as an ice-breaker) and use the print for the place setting or take a polaroid picture as the guest arrives.
Write names on cards and place inside a snow globe is another idea and ideal for a themed or Winter’s party.
The colour theme and decorations must create a dramatic backdrop to reflect the character of the season or occasion.
Using table linens will add immediate colour and provides a backdrop for tableware.
Layering different fabrics and prints creates interest and helps to establish your theme.
Tablecloth, runner, chargers, coasters and napkins will dress the table for dinner and can be accessorised with napkin rings, cutlery and glasses.
If you stick to a simple colour theme try using a variety of textures to create interest but don’t be afraid of colour.
By using contrasting effects or using tones of the same colour, as you would when styling clothing, will encourage you to experiment and take risks.
The centrepiece can be the main focus of the table using candelabra or floral arrangements to create a statement.
A colour scheme of duck egg blue, white, silver and gold together with green foliage and white floral decorations combine to create a chilly Arctic Frosted themed tablescape.
Atmosphere and mood can be created by carefully considered lighting and should reflect the height and dimensions of the table setting.
Seek to harmonise with the overall room lighting and don’t be afraid to mix natural candlelight with artificial fairy lights.
Adding cut glass, mirrors and sequinned chargers will help to reflect and enhance the glimmer and ambience and complement your guests.
Very cheap and effective lighting can be created using recycled bottles, with thin tapered candles in multiples down the centre of a long tablescape.
Numerous, smaller bottles in a variety of shapes and sizes can hold single flower stems and on mass, added between the candles, will create a spectacular and dramatic scene without breaking the bank.
You will however need to save and store your recycled bottles over time. Using mirrored tiles as a table runner will reflect back and give the illusion of excess and extravagance.
Symmetry and repetition works well and can be particularly effective in large venues with long table settings and numerous guests.
Maximalism is created using upside down hanging roses. This creates a fabulous backdrop, matching the row of single stemmed roses that centre the table. The ingenious use of a mirrored table charger reflects to create depth and further duplication.
