Tablescaping - Creating the Perfect Ambiance

Tablescaping, the art of arranging tables to create a mood from ordinary to extraordinary, is an easy and fun way to let your imagination run wild. You can create a tablescape that is not only beautiful and interesting, but also one that reflects your personality by using items in your house. Tablescaping is a great way to brighten up a room and use your creativity. Whether you are designing your table to highlight a personal collection or with a particular holiday theme, it can add a great focal point to a room.

One of the first steps in tablescaping is finding a suitable theme for your table. It could be a color theme, nature theme, sports theme, holiday theme, or a celebration theme, such as a wedding. Tablescaping themes can also include displaying your collections or memorabilia. To help you with choosing a theme, look around the room, and decide what function, if any, the table serves. For instance, a sports theme might look somewhat out of place within the dining room. This tablescape might be better left to the den or recreation room. Now create a centerpiece using your theme. Search for things you already have or can buy cheap that relate to your theme when you begin to create your tablescape.

An interesting tablescape can instantly become a conversation piece at dinner, and the holidays are no exception. The holidays present the perfect time to bring out seasonal collections. Whatever you choose, ground the collection or centerpiece to the table by placing objects on leaves, fabric, or risers to create visual appeal. Groups of items have more visual impact than single objects. Create depth by alternating pieces from back to front. Vary the textures of the items in the grouping for additional interest. Use various plants to add life to your tablescape. Accessories should be chosen to support not only the tablescape theme but that of the room as well. For instance, add candles to complement your theme. Votives and tea lights can be popped into old teacups and used as finishing touches for a romantic or antique-themed tablescape in the dining room. Likewise, use small clay pots to hold candles for a garden-themed tablescape in a sunroom or closed-in patio.