A Spring Table Setting

Have you ever done a Pinterest search for table setting ideas and come away feeling defeated?  Like there’s just no way you’ll find time to paint 150 terra cotta pots in an ombre color scheme and then plant an interesting selection of succulents in them before your dinner party.  I mean, it looks so pretty!  But geesh, who but a blogger who makes money sharing decorating ideas has time to do all that for one simple dinner?  😉  It’s like listen, no one’s throwing shade at the hostess with the mostess, but can a girl get some table dressing ideas that A. won’t be akin to planning a wedding reception and B. won’t cost a small fortune.  Like sorry friends, we’re not having dessert tonight because of these pretty floral arrangements.  😉  Let me just say, that’s no way to win friends!

I’m no entertaining guru.  I mean, obviously I’m not; just look at this too short table runner.  Etiquette would be so displeased.  But etiquette isn’t on my guest list, so I think I’m good.  😉

I believe the most important thing you can do when you’re entertaining dinner guests is to make them feel welcome!  And you don’t need elaborate table decor to do that.

• A simple vase of fresh flowers makes for a wonderfully beautiful and simple centerpiece.  And bonus points for selecting a flower that has special meaning to you.  I carried calla lilies in my bridal bouquet.

• To add interest to your very simple centerpiece have a little fun with pattern mixing.  Stripes and polka dots work year round and are always a happy combination.  Throw a floral pattern into the mix for a spring-y vibe.

• Bring in a little nod to the season with a fun napkin ring.  These butterflies are just inexpensive picks found in the floral department at my local craft store.  So easy and inexpensive!  And they add some depth and dimension to keep this very simple setup interesting!

Please don’t get me wrong here.  I think Pinterest, and social media in general, are really great.  The abundance of inspiration available at your fingertips is pretty incredible!  However, I also think it’s important when you’re viewing content shared on social media to remember that it was carefully crafted, photographed and edited before it was served up as inspiration for your viewing pleasure.

If you want to string up 100 bud vases above your table to create a floating floral centerpiece that also acts as a chandelier, by all means, go for it!  It’ll be beautiful!  But just know, a simple bouquet of grocery store flowers and the gold chargers you found at Goodwill will work just as well at making your guests feel loved.  So long as you’re serving dessert, everyone will be happy either way.  And if you’re serving something with chocolate, you’re golden!  😉

So thankful that spring is in the air!  I hope the weather is starting to warm up where you are!