Creating a table that is fun, festive, and inviting always excites me. While I always aim to create something new and different with each season, somehow I tend to gravitate to similar visions of years past. Today I’m sharing a few tips for planning a festive table alongside some really fabulous tablescapes that gave me the inspiration for my autumn buffet table.
COHESIVE COLOR PAIRINGS
Maintaining one color and mixing neutrals or tones of the same color will make your tablescape look unified. For autumn I love using blues, greens and orange. As you know, blues blend beautifully throughout the year, which is why I consider it the main character in my decor. For interest I like to add patterns and during the fall season I especially like to use tartans and plaids.
On my buffet table I have my blue and white ginger jars (I use them to decorate year round) with orange faux foliage to tie in all the autumn feels. When using basic white china, the easiest way to transform your dining table is by picking a multicolored tablecloth also in autumnal hues, this will give your daily white china a new look. For my dining table I’m using this blue and green tartan tablecloth with these simple white plates and alternating them with blue Spode. The Spode plates are stunning with a touch of whimsy and coastal flare. These linen blend napkins in bold terracotta tie it all together.
NATURAL TEXTURES
To me wicker is not just for summer which is why I use it throughout the year. I love to include rattan pieces because they add texture and warmth to a table. I use jute placemats as the foundation for our dinner plates along with these braided jute napkin holders. I have this lovely wicker bowl that doubles as a large vase for a home-made centerpiece. This will also add texture and character to the table with a little height for maximum statement. Mixing metallics is another way to add a touch of glamour to the table. These brass candlesticks in varying heights along with the silverware gives the tablescape a collected look. The polished metals will catch the light from the lit candles adding charm to the aesthetics.
ADD VINTAGE PIECES
- VINTAGE STEMWARE I love collecting vintage tableware and the special pieces I’ve found over the years continue to make my tables unique. Along with the brass candlesticks in varying heights to add sparkle to the table I always take out my wedding crystalware. I’ve had these for over thirty years and are now considered vintage. You can still find some of my Gallia pieces here. Aside from my wedding crystal I also love to use some antique pieces from the Castle Garden crystalware that I’ve collected over the years. These are a little more dainty in apperance but they add chicness to the table.
- VINTAGE PLATES You can find some really fabulous vintage plates in antique shops. They are an inexpensive way to layer in more color (bonus – you can mix patterns for ultimate tablesetting statement!).
- SILVERWARE Don’t overlook antique silverware, especially those that are monogramed. I have two antique sets that I found with my initials, both in different styles. I use them sparingly because they are real silver and polishing them is quite the task. When I do use them they look absolutely stunning. And don’t worry if you can’t find a complete set because mixing styles is definitely a thing and just adds more charm to your setting.
- FIGURINES Adding figurines or sculptures of autumn animals is a fantastic way to bring some whimsy to your fall table. My two pheasants are vintage finds and I’ve had them for over ten years and I absolutely love them. Figures of foxes are also highly popular this time of year. They are readily available in both antique shops and online here and here.
SOURCES
All inspo images via Pinterest
SHOP TABLE SETTINGS