I created this tablescape for 'Twixmas' which if you're not aware of this word, it's the period of time between Christmas and the New year. I always love to host between these two things, as there seems to be a little less pressure, with no expectations and it's a chance to cook something fairly simple too. For this dinner party, I was hosting a family get together at lunch time. I wanted to give a subtle nod to the traditional Christmas colours but I didn't want it to look too Christmassy! I love looking in my botanical garden books for inspiration, particularly those by one of my favourite authors 'Selina Lake'. I saw a photo of everything at a low level with warm candlelight in one of her books, so I was keen to create this same feeling on my table using the idea. So with this in mind I headed out to my garden to see what I could forage, and looked in my prop stash to see what I could use to bring it all together.
Foraged Pieces
I mixed a variety of evergreen shrubs with leafy foliage among some delicate dried florals, such as poppy heads, verbena & hydrangeas that I have planted in my garden. Popping in a few dried grasses in neutral colours to add some texture. Which I then arranged in some small amber and brown bud vases to add a warmth to the table. I also scattered some garden ivy along the centre which added a whimsical touch.
Table Decor
I used a neutral striped tablecloth for the base of the table with wicker charger mats on top, white scallop plates & rose gold cutlery. Deep green linen napkins were tied loosely with a frayed chiffon ribbon in a muted brown shade to match the coloured wine glasses. Finished with my bow menu cards in a berry shade. These are ideal for any special occasion as they are a pre-made template you can edit, print and cut out yourself at home for whenever you need them. You can find them here in my digital shop. Lastly low tea lights added a warm glow and an inviting atmosphere to complete the look.
Shop Menu Card Template
The Results
My guests felt very relaxed and lingered a little longer after the meal to natter away as they felt really comfortable. I served a simple meal so I could be with my guests, most of which was prepped the morning before they arrived. I assumed everyone would of needed a breather from eating meat, after heavy rich dinners so I opted for something lighter. I made a pastry tart with pesto, tomatoes, mozzarella and fresh basil, served with a side order of homemade wedges and watercress salad. For dessert I did a version of Eton mess, with crushed meringue nests, blue berries, strawberries, raspberries, whipped double cream and dark chocolate shavings on top. It was just wanted everyone fancied and they all enjoyed it.
Here's a quick little video of the whole look coming together. I was so pleased with it and the vibe was exactly what I wanted.
If you would like stationery to help you bring your table vision to life you can find pre- made designs in my shop here. Or we can work together on something bespoke. You can find more details for that here.
If you are in the Lincolnshire area of the UK, and you are wanting some help to plan a celebration I offer my table styling services, which you can find more about here.
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