The phrase “setting the table” has different meanings for different people.
When my kids were little, it was their job to set the table. Needless to say, it wasn’t this formal for everyday. It still isn’t in our house for our empty nest meals.
For me, setting the table means to create a tablescape with my collection of tableware.
I love having my table set with a pretty seasonal display, so that if I have unexpected visitors, the dining room always looks nice. I also enjoy setting a pretty table when we have dinner guests. I’ve always told my friends that setting my table is a pleasurable hobby for me, and I’m just as comfortable in their houses with paper plates. No pressure, folks.
Setting a pretty table is just part of me, and I’m not ashamed of my little secret.
Especially now that I know there’s a whole subculture of people who like to set their tables for fun and then put the photos on their blogs. I’m linking up with Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday; please be sure to click in and enjoy all the beautiful inspiration to be found among the bloggers’ links! I’ve spent way too much happy time looking at tablescapes from bloggers’ archives, especially the amazingly talented Alycia Nichols (this one is going to make Music Man VERY nervous).
This tablescape started with this Pinterest photo from 2011.
Image via Pinterest; original source unknown
Once I figured out where to find fake lemons and limes (the dollar store), I couldn’t resist making the display, even though it was after Christmas. Next time I’ll try layering the pieces, but this worked (except for the red glitter all over the kitchen).
What’s not to like?
So, today’s my inaugural entry into the tablescape world. I wasn’t quite ready to give up the last of my Christmas decorations, and I’m showing my last hurrah before I bow to the Christmas decoration police. And since I see Italy in my table setting, my linens, and my colors, this tablescape had to have an Italian theme.
We probably all could do with a nice Italian red in our lives.
Buon Viaggio!
Hip, hip, HOORAY! Hip, hip, HOORAY! Hip, hip, HOORAY!!!! That’s what I’M talkin’ ’bout!!! Yes, ma’am!!! Yes, indeedy!!! I can’t believe you have been hiding this talent from the rest of the world! Your friends just don’t know what kind of exclusive treat they were privy to! Not only is your table pretty, but there is a lot of YOU in it. You do it because it makes YOU happy, because YOU enjoy it. No pressure or judgment on anyone else…it’s just something that gives you a little pep in your step. Right on!!! Now gimme those chargers! 🙂 I like your rendition of the centerpiece. That’s the beauty of Pinterest and magazines and such…you can be INSPIRED to create something. It isn’t necessarily the same thing (which would be boring anyway!), but the inspiration is there. Please let Music Man know it’s all good…as long as you use it all! 🙂 Thank you for the shout out, and congratulations on hopping on board the Crazy ‘Bout Tablescaping Train!!! You’re gonna love the ride!
Alycia, your enthusiasm is what got me hooked in the first place. Thanks for commenting and thanks for your inspiration!
Hi Jennie! What a beautiful centerpiece!!! I’ve seen that fake fruit at the Dollar store and have wanted to buy it…now this lovely decor has given me another reason to go out and get it! haha! Thanks for sharing your lovely table! =D
What a stunning debut into tablescaping in Blogland! I love your inspiration photo and think I also cut that out of a magazine — maybe Southern Living? I haven’t tried to copy it yet, but you did a great job!
I’m with you when it comes to setting a table. I love doing it not only because it makes me happy but a pretty table even makes the food taste better. Also I think guests very much appreciate spending time at a lovely table that shows you care. Off to have a little Italian red!
Your table is beautiful. Love those chargers and those candlesticks. Your layered centerpiece turned out so pretty. laurie
Such a pretty tablescape. I love the colors. Pinterest can be so inspriring!
Karen
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Yes, the red it gorgeous! Your Pinterest inspiration is inspiring, for sure. Dollar Tree seems to be a great source for you. I need to check their store(s) more often, because you find wonderful stuff there! I love the gold, too. It’s beautiful with the red. And, we can overlook the Christmas items. 😉