Effortless Table-Setting Method Revealed by Ina Garten - Anticipation Mounts for Trying Her Suggestion
Dining in Style: A Guide to Creating a Chic, Mismatched Table Setting
Hosting a dinner party? Don't stress about coordinating your table setting. Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa, has a genius solution – mix-and-match dishes and linens! Here's how to achieve a stunning table that pops without clashing.
- Stick to a Color Theme
The secret to a harmonious mix-and-match look is a well-selected color palette. Garten's table features a vibrant orange, blue, and cream scheme, complemented by matching orange slices, floral arrangements, and even table grapes. Don't shy away from primary colors or bold patterns!
- Keep Some Elements Consistent
While you may be tempted to go all-out mismatched, sticking to at least one consistent element can help tie everything together. Garten opts for classic, consistent silverware and plates to ground her eclectic tableware.
- Embrace Pattern Clash
Don't be afraid to showcase your mix-and-match collection and have fun with patterns! Garten's eye-catching napkins feature a delightful mix of stripes and checks, while you can take it one step further by mixing and matching plates and glasses.
- Get Creative with Centerpieces
One of the standout features of Garten's table is the diverse collection of centerpieces, ranging from hurricane candles to bowl-fulls of fresh fruit and flowers. Don't be limited to one large floral arrangement – create an array of smaller, unique centerpiece options instead. Better yet, try repurposing items from your kitchen or garden.
Explore creative vessels for your floral arrangements – Garten showcases sweet pea flowers in a tiny creamer pitcher. Think mason jars, juice glasses, sugar bowls, or even a cleaned-out tin can. Keep centerpieces low enough to encourage conversation among dinner guests.
- Experiment with Placing Elements
Instead of centering everything, try placing tall centerpieces toward the ends of your table, allowing seated guests to enjoy unobstructed views of each other.
With a mix-and-match table setting, have fun experimenting and creating a look that's unique to you!
- For the upcoming spring entertaining season, consider browsing RealSimple's guide on creating a chic, mismatched tablescape for your holiday entertaining events.
- The coolest dining idea this season is grandma's core mix-and-match table setting, which can add a touch of elegance and fun to your home decorating.
- Instead of sticking to a traditional tablescape, try exploring seasonal events ideas that allow you to showcase your collection of dishes, linens, and tableware in a unique and stylish way.
- Don't worry about hurting your credit line by purchasing new dishes and linens for your dinner parties – a mix-and-match table setting is a budget-friendly and creative solution.
- To elevate your entertaining game, mix and match patterns, buck the norm by clashing colors and don't shy away from bold dishes and linens. Create a tablescape that's both surprising and delightful.
- Experiment with your tablescape by setting up dishes, glasses, and containers in a way that adds visual interest and encourages guests to marvel at the coolest table setting they've ever seen.
