The holiday's are upon us, we still have time for planning, and making things just like we want them, but please dont wait till the last minute to plan your great holiday special, for your friends, family and loves ones.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
The Holiday's is upon us.
The holiday's are upon us, we still have time for planning, and making things just like we want them, but please dont wait till the last minute to plan your great holiday special, for your friends, family and loves ones.
Friday, August 13, 2010
A chandelier is the focal point of the dining room. Suspended over the dining table, it serves as a decorative style element that enhances the beauty of your fine furnishings. When the light is dimmed, a soft, glowing atmosphere similar to candlelight is created. If equipped with a downlight, the chandelier provides task lighting for the table and accent lighting for a centerpiece. How to select a dining room chandelier: Unless you have high ceilings and a chandelier that hangs above head height, a chandelier should be at least 12 inches narrower (smaller in diameter) than a dining room table. Otherwise, people could bump their heads when standing up. The chandelier diameter should be approximately 1/2 the width of the dining table. When hung, the bottom of the chandelier should be approximately 30 inches above the surface of the dining table.
This is great news for a beautiful chandelier, it has all information, ie. size, placement, color, length, height, wonderful! but when it come to a great center piece, this small chandelier plate is the sequential, cute conversation piece. Place it in you fine dinning room and listen for the whisper.
This is great news for a beautiful chandelier, it has all information, ie. size, placement, color, length, height, wonderful! but when it come to a great center piece, this small chandelier plate is the sequential, cute conversation piece. Place it in you fine dinning room and listen for the whisper.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Table decorations – now called “tablescapes” in the party circuit – help your party define its theme. More than just a centerpiece, the tablescape encompasses the lighting, tablecloth, napkin rings and all the table’s essentials to help set the tone, style, theme and ambiance for your event….
Every party deserves a festive table decked out in unusual ways. Whether you’re throwing a bridal shower for 40 or a Father’s Day brunch for six, learn the essentials and some innovative ideas that will have your guests eager to sit down at your table as soon as they arrive, and talking about the table long after the party ends.
The Essentials of Table Décor
Creating fabulous tablescapes starts with a few essentials. Assemble table decorations from the following quick list:
Fabric – Use some kind of fabric that furthers the party theme. Tablecloths, runners, placemats, napkins and chair covers fall under this category. Do not limit yourself to the tried and true: think wild, whimsical or sublime. Feather boas, scarves, handkerchiefs, doilies, or a carpet remnant may serve your purpose.
Lighting – Lighting creates a mood, whether it’s the soft romance of candlelight or the flashing strobes of disco dazzle. Make certain your tablescape includes the element of light. Candles – available in so many sizes, shapes and colors – remain a favorite, but step it up with lamps or lanterns. Create a soft glow of color by placing fabric over a lamp to create an in-the-pink mood or a dark, somber atmosphere.
Hard Accents – Common items used in unusual ways define hard accents. Frames, hats, shoes, baskets, boxes, balls or bottles can become unique table decorations, as long as they follow the theme and provide the right touch.
Search second-hand shops, yard sales, flea markets, the attic or online for the curious item that will spark everyone’s imagination.
Something BotanicalThe finishing touch to a tablescape comes from nature. Add flowers, plants, foliage, fruit or vegetables to the assemblage. But don’t stop there: flowering branches, painted bare branches in interesting shapes, mosses, sod and even soil can transform a tabletop into something special, from a fairy wonderland to an artistic setting.
Create LevelsYou could simply set each element on the table and call it good, but why not add more interest and a sense of movement by varying the heights of components? Arrange a stack of books at different angles with a candlestick and one red rose on top. Or lay a pair of old eyeglasses and fountain pen on a single book next to the stack and perhaps another candlestick or two surrounding the vignette. What a great tablescape for a book club get-together or a writer’s birthday.
Another way to create levels involves using a tablecloth over containers set underneath. Plan how you want the heights to look and use bowls, cans or racks to create various heights. Lay a tablecloth over everything and tuck the cloth around each item to create a draping effect. Place objects on the bowls, along with some on the table.
The easiest levels come from the various elements. Use a pretty lace parasol hung from the ceiling for a bridal shower. The parasol creates the tallest element.
Directly beneath the umbrella, create a flower arrangement in a basket with a handle. All about the basket place romantic memorabilia, such as photographs of the engaged couple in a silver frames of various sizes. Place votive candles, which represent the lowest elements, all about the scene.
Add TexturesBlend soft with hard and sleek with rough for a fascinating vignette. The textures of the items you use further the story. Spiky spider mums coupled with a silk table runner says elegantly oriental with textures and symbolism.
Make it ComfortableMaking a tablescape is loads of fun, and getting carried away a real possibility. Keep this little rule of thumb in mind as you search home décor table decorations to go with your next party: Do not take up more than 1/3 of the tabletop surface for the tablescape. A party that lacks consideration for the comfort of guests is headed for disaster. Make sure place settings sit securely on the table. Allow for elbowroom and maneuvering. Remember you can use napkins, napkin rings and even the dishes to further your theme.
Ideas for Specific Party Table Decorations
Father’s Day or Dad’s birthday – On days when Dad gets to rest and be pampered, invite the whole family to honor him at an outdoor buffet or potluck in your back yard. Does Dad have a hobby or a passion? Base the party around something he enjoys doing. If he’s an angler, purchase khaki-colored fabric to make a tablecloth and use pinking shears to finish the edges.
Cotton fabric with a fish theme can then be used for napkins. Pick up fishing hats, lures, an old tackle box and a sign that states, “No fishing allowed” or “Gone fishing” for the hard accents. Add a mix of flowers and botanicals such as cattails, horsetail, daisies, and small sunflowers.
Create a flower arrangement in the old tackle box with a few lures dangling over the edge. Lean the sign against the backside of the tackle box and, finally, scatter lures down the table and between places where food will sit. On the tables for guests, use khaki tablecloths, a fishing hat and a Mason jar filled with the same flowers. Instead of candles, place a camping lantern on the food table. Use fishing line with a lure tied to it as a napkin ring.
Puttin’ on the Ritz party – If you’re planning an event that hums elegance and sophistication in a 1940’s, Fred-Astaire-and-Ginger-Rogers way, start with small lamps with tiny shades, set on each table, to create the mood. A top hat, lying on its side with a bouquet of red carnations peeking out, adds style and color. Elbow-length white gloves draped over the top hat lend an air of sexy. A table covering in white damask, with red napkins circled in faux diamond bracelets (picked up at a second-hand shop), completes the table scene.
“Sex in the City” party or a girlfriend’s birthday –If you’re planning an event that several of your adult girlfriends will attend, consider table decorations that begin with the colors pink and black.
Achieve various levels by placing cans of soup, beans, etc. in graduated sizes on the table. Lay a black tablecloth over the cans. Tuck the fabric around the cans to give a draping effect.
Next, fill martini glasses with water and add a touch of red food coloring to create the look of a pink cosmopolitan. Set one glass on each can, creating a stair-step effect. Float a candle in each martini glass.
Pick up a pair of saucy heels in a complementary color and create a flower arrangement in one shoe, standing upright, then tip the other over next to it. Tie lengths of hot-pink feather boas around the napkins.
Table decorations for using in a tablescape can come from anywhere, including your kitchen. Table décor with flair is easy to achieve by thinking about the theme and related items. Consider key words that you’d like to define your party, such as “outrageous,” “sweet,” “family,” “outdoors” or “sophisticated.” What objects do you have or can you find that exemplify those words? It won’t take long until your list becomes too long. Develop the overall look and go for a few choice items on the list that, when combined, make a stunning tablescape.
Do You Have Good Manners?In an age where it seems like the only time we see good manners on display is in the 19th century period piece movies, how do you reign on Miss Manner's meter? Find out with this quiz if you need to go back to etiquette school or if you have already graduated at the top of your class.
Every party deserves a festive table decked out in unusual ways. Whether you’re throwing a bridal shower for 40 or a Father’s Day brunch for six, learn the essentials and some innovative ideas that will have your guests eager to sit down at your table as soon as they arrive, and talking about the table long after the party ends.
The Essentials of Table Décor
Creating fabulous tablescapes starts with a few essentials. Assemble table decorations from the following quick list:
Fabric – Use some kind of fabric that furthers the party theme. Tablecloths, runners, placemats, napkins and chair covers fall under this category. Do not limit yourself to the tried and true: think wild, whimsical or sublime. Feather boas, scarves, handkerchiefs, doilies, or a carpet remnant may serve your purpose.
Lighting – Lighting creates a mood, whether it’s the soft romance of candlelight or the flashing strobes of disco dazzle. Make certain your tablescape includes the element of light. Candles – available in so many sizes, shapes and colors – remain a favorite, but step it up with lamps or lanterns. Create a soft glow of color by placing fabric over a lamp to create an in-the-pink mood or a dark, somber atmosphere.
Hard Accents – Common items used in unusual ways define hard accents. Frames, hats, shoes, baskets, boxes, balls or bottles can become unique table decorations, as long as they follow the theme and provide the right touch.
Search second-hand shops, yard sales, flea markets, the attic or online for the curious item that will spark everyone’s imagination.
Something BotanicalThe finishing touch to a tablescape comes from nature. Add flowers, plants, foliage, fruit or vegetables to the assemblage. But don’t stop there: flowering branches, painted bare branches in interesting shapes, mosses, sod and even soil can transform a tabletop into something special, from a fairy wonderland to an artistic setting.
Create LevelsYou could simply set each element on the table and call it good, but why not add more interest and a sense of movement by varying the heights of components? Arrange a stack of books at different angles with a candlestick and one red rose on top. Or lay a pair of old eyeglasses and fountain pen on a single book next to the stack and perhaps another candlestick or two surrounding the vignette. What a great tablescape for a book club get-together or a writer’s birthday.
Another way to create levels involves using a tablecloth over containers set underneath. Plan how you want the heights to look and use bowls, cans or racks to create various heights. Lay a tablecloth over everything and tuck the cloth around each item to create a draping effect. Place objects on the bowls, along with some on the table.
The easiest levels come from the various elements. Use a pretty lace parasol hung from the ceiling for a bridal shower. The parasol creates the tallest element.
Directly beneath the umbrella, create a flower arrangement in a basket with a handle. All about the basket place romantic memorabilia, such as photographs of the engaged couple in a silver frames of various sizes. Place votive candles, which represent the lowest elements, all about the scene.
Add TexturesBlend soft with hard and sleek with rough for a fascinating vignette. The textures of the items you use further the story. Spiky spider mums coupled with a silk table runner says elegantly oriental with textures and symbolism.
Make it ComfortableMaking a tablescape is loads of fun, and getting carried away a real possibility. Keep this little rule of thumb in mind as you search home décor table decorations to go with your next party: Do not take up more than 1/3 of the tabletop surface for the tablescape. A party that lacks consideration for the comfort of guests is headed for disaster. Make sure place settings sit securely on the table. Allow for elbowroom and maneuvering. Remember you can use napkins, napkin rings and even the dishes to further your theme.
Ideas for Specific Party Table Decorations
Father’s Day or Dad’s birthday – On days when Dad gets to rest and be pampered, invite the whole family to honor him at an outdoor buffet or potluck in your back yard. Does Dad have a hobby or a passion? Base the party around something he enjoys doing. If he’s an angler, purchase khaki-colored fabric to make a tablecloth and use pinking shears to finish the edges.
Cotton fabric with a fish theme can then be used for napkins. Pick up fishing hats, lures, an old tackle box and a sign that states, “No fishing allowed” or “Gone fishing” for the hard accents. Add a mix of flowers and botanicals such as cattails, horsetail, daisies, and small sunflowers.
Create a flower arrangement in the old tackle box with a few lures dangling over the edge. Lean the sign against the backside of the tackle box and, finally, scatter lures down the table and between places where food will sit. On the tables for guests, use khaki tablecloths, a fishing hat and a Mason jar filled with the same flowers. Instead of candles, place a camping lantern on the food table. Use fishing line with a lure tied to it as a napkin ring.
Puttin’ on the Ritz party – If you’re planning an event that hums elegance and sophistication in a 1940’s, Fred-Astaire-and-Ginger-Rogers way, start with small lamps with tiny shades, set on each table, to create the mood. A top hat, lying on its side with a bouquet of red carnations peeking out, adds style and color. Elbow-length white gloves draped over the top hat lend an air of sexy. A table covering in white damask, with red napkins circled in faux diamond bracelets (picked up at a second-hand shop), completes the table scene.
“Sex in the City” party or a girlfriend’s birthday –If you’re planning an event that several of your adult girlfriends will attend, consider table decorations that begin with the colors pink and black.
Achieve various levels by placing cans of soup, beans, etc. in graduated sizes on the table. Lay a black tablecloth over the cans. Tuck the fabric around the cans to give a draping effect.
Next, fill martini glasses with water and add a touch of red food coloring to create the look of a pink cosmopolitan. Set one glass on each can, creating a stair-step effect. Float a candle in each martini glass.
Pick up a pair of saucy heels in a complementary color and create a flower arrangement in one shoe, standing upright, then tip the other over next to it. Tie lengths of hot-pink feather boas around the napkins.
Table decorations for using in a tablescape can come from anywhere, including your kitchen. Table décor with flair is easy to achieve by thinking about the theme and related items. Consider key words that you’d like to define your party, such as “outrageous,” “sweet,” “family,” “outdoors” or “sophisticated.” What objects do you have or can you find that exemplify those words? It won’t take long until your list becomes too long. Develop the overall look and go for a few choice items on the list that, when combined, make a stunning tablescape.
Do You Have Good Manners?In an age where it seems like the only time we see good manners on display is in the 19th century period piece movies, how do you reign on Miss Manner's meter? Find out with this quiz if you need to go back to etiquette school or if you have already graduated at the top of your class.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Tablescapes....what is it?
Landscapes... Interiorscapes... Plantscapes... Tablescapes...
"Tablescape" is a relatively new term used in interior decorating. It is defined exactly as one would think- a landscape for your table. This, of course, encompasses a large area to play with. It could be as simple as a floral centerpiece, or as elaborate as a theatrical production for a buffet or photo shoot.
How many of us neglect the most focal piece of furniture that we have- the dining room table?
Has your table become a dumping ground for mail, homework, craft projects?
Do you push your everyday life aside, just to be able to sit and eat a meal together?
These are just a few reasons that we should treat our dining area, whether it's in a dining room, kitchen, patio, or other area with tender loving hands. Who knows- you may even find time to sit with your family again!
With these ideas, tips, and trends- you will be able to create tabletop masterpieces in minutes! Using what you have on hand, buying new, and reinventing the existing pieces you already own, puts a whole new spin on things. Decorate your table for special occasions, holidays, seasonally, or "just because", and reconnect with the most basic element in a household- the family meal.
So lets decorate...
Spring Pruning Party
It's a beautiful spring day, and I have a blank table in front of me. After pruning a few red and yellow twig dogwood bushes, I am inspired to re-arrange my table!
Pruning my shrubs always leads to a new look in my house!
I cover the table first - I love linens, and use them regularly. This time I am going to choose an antique quilt of my great grandmother's that is collecting dust in my linen closet. The soft yellow color and rosettes will work well for this theme. Mix it up from your own stash of linens. A tablecloth, lace curtains, bedding- all will work as a cover-up.
If you have an exceptional table, perhaps just a runner or table square will do the trick. I always use runners and/or placemats on the diagonal on my rectangular table. By setting up my "mini tablescape" on one end of the table, I do not have to remove it every time we sit down to eat.
Now, back to my pruning...
I gather the yellow twig dogwood (pussy willows or flowering branches would be great for this also) in a clear vase with river rock on the bottom. Certainly switch out the rocks with marbles, aquarium gravel, dried peas or lentils, anything that you have in your pantry or closet. No need to add water- they will stay intact as is. This is your tallest piece, so do not be afraid to let the twigs and vase soar to the ceiling, ideally 3' or more from the table top.
What else do I have in the house? A pretty cake plate in white ceramic will do the trick. If you do not own a cake plate, take a canning jar (I love the shape of these and use them for everything), turn it upside down and put a pretty plate on top of it. Instant cake plate at the height we need! What to put on the plate? Back to the garden- an empty bird's nest will work. Spray this for little creatures, or purchase one at the craft store. A soft "nest" of ribbon to set it on, or realistic eggs to scatter are part of the look. Remember- this is not Easter, so go Spring-like with the eggs.
Position this next to the vase with your "prunings". We now need a third item of a different height. I may fill a colander or bowl with Granny Smith Apples for the color pop, or scatter candles around the base of the cake plate. Using three objects of varying heights balances your main centerpiece on this tablescape.
Pull out that fine china, and use it! If it is not dishwasher safe, and a real drag to wash- use the large plates as a charger plate underneath your everyday china. The table will always appear set, since the charger can stay in place, while you wash the other plates. If you have multiple sets of dishes, mix up the patterns and stay in soft tones of color for our Spring- like feel. Now is the time to use that floral pattern from Grandma, the fiesta ware in multiple colors, or the all-white palette.
If this is a special occasion tablescape, and you are using party favors, think terra cotta pots from in the garage. They have been sitting there all winter, screaming to be filled and used at each place setting! A pretty fresh primrose plant purchased at the garden center will kick the table up a notch.
For everyday tablescapes- you can still utilize the primroses, or small flowering plant in your centerpiece. I am a firm believer that fresh flowers make everything special, and these can be planted outside when the weather is right.
With this theme in hand- think fun!
Some ideas to try out:
Utensils can be tied together with raffia
Serve pink lemonade with a frozen strawberry as the ice cube
Gardening tools scattered on the table
Sun hats tied to the back of chairs
A wheelbarrow filled with ice for a makeshift bar
A picnic basket filled with help-yourself snacks(this is great for everyday with young children- their own after school snack station!).
Remember, Happy Spring and enjoy decorating your table!
Tracey Schabel is the editor of http://www.GirlzDealz.com a website "for women by women", where you can find ideas, tips, and deals about home and lifestyle trends. Be sure to check out our website for the latest in interior decorating, green living, lifestyle trends, handpicked shopping deals, entertaining, book reviews, and much more.
"Tablescape" is a relatively new term used in interior decorating. It is defined exactly as one would think- a landscape for your table. This, of course, encompasses a large area to play with. It could be as simple as a floral centerpiece, or as elaborate as a theatrical production for a buffet or photo shoot.
How many of us neglect the most focal piece of furniture that we have- the dining room table?
Has your table become a dumping ground for mail, homework, craft projects?
Do you push your everyday life aside, just to be able to sit and eat a meal together?
These are just a few reasons that we should treat our dining area, whether it's in a dining room, kitchen, patio, or other area with tender loving hands. Who knows- you may even find time to sit with your family again!
With these ideas, tips, and trends- you will be able to create tabletop masterpieces in minutes! Using what you have on hand, buying new, and reinventing the existing pieces you already own, puts a whole new spin on things. Decorate your table for special occasions, holidays, seasonally, or "just because", and reconnect with the most basic element in a household- the family meal.
So lets decorate...
Spring Pruning Party
It's a beautiful spring day, and I have a blank table in front of me. After pruning a few red and yellow twig dogwood bushes, I am inspired to re-arrange my table!
Pruning my shrubs always leads to a new look in my house!
I cover the table first - I love linens, and use them regularly. This time I am going to choose an antique quilt of my great grandmother's that is collecting dust in my linen closet. The soft yellow color and rosettes will work well for this theme. Mix it up from your own stash of linens. A tablecloth, lace curtains, bedding- all will work as a cover-up.
If you have an exceptional table, perhaps just a runner or table square will do the trick. I always use runners and/or placemats on the diagonal on my rectangular table. By setting up my "mini tablescape" on one end of the table, I do not have to remove it every time we sit down to eat.
Now, back to my pruning...
I gather the yellow twig dogwood (pussy willows or flowering branches would be great for this also) in a clear vase with river rock on the bottom. Certainly switch out the rocks with marbles, aquarium gravel, dried peas or lentils, anything that you have in your pantry or closet. No need to add water- they will stay intact as is. This is your tallest piece, so do not be afraid to let the twigs and vase soar to the ceiling, ideally 3' or more from the table top.
What else do I have in the house? A pretty cake plate in white ceramic will do the trick. If you do not own a cake plate, take a canning jar (I love the shape of these and use them for everything), turn it upside down and put a pretty plate on top of it. Instant cake plate at the height we need! What to put on the plate? Back to the garden- an empty bird's nest will work. Spray this for little creatures, or purchase one at the craft store. A soft "nest" of ribbon to set it on, or realistic eggs to scatter are part of the look. Remember- this is not Easter, so go Spring-like with the eggs.
Position this next to the vase with your "prunings". We now need a third item of a different height. I may fill a colander or bowl with Granny Smith Apples for the color pop, or scatter candles around the base of the cake plate. Using three objects of varying heights balances your main centerpiece on this tablescape.
Pull out that fine china, and use it! If it is not dishwasher safe, and a real drag to wash- use the large plates as a charger plate underneath your everyday china. The table will always appear set, since the charger can stay in place, while you wash the other plates. If you have multiple sets of dishes, mix up the patterns and stay in soft tones of color for our Spring- like feel. Now is the time to use that floral pattern from Grandma, the fiesta ware in multiple colors, or the all-white palette.
If this is a special occasion tablescape, and you are using party favors, think terra cotta pots from in the garage. They have been sitting there all winter, screaming to be filled and used at each place setting! A pretty fresh primrose plant purchased at the garden center will kick the table up a notch.
For everyday tablescapes- you can still utilize the primroses, or small flowering plant in your centerpiece. I am a firm believer that fresh flowers make everything special, and these can be planted outside when the weather is right.
With this theme in hand- think fun!
Some ideas to try out:
Utensils can be tied together with raffia
Serve pink lemonade with a frozen strawberry as the ice cube
Gardening tools scattered on the table
Sun hats tied to the back of chairs
A wheelbarrow filled with ice for a makeshift bar
A picnic basket filled with help-yourself snacks(this is great for everyday with young children- their own after school snack station!).
Remember, Happy Spring and enjoy decorating your table!
Tracey Schabel is the editor of http://www.GirlzDealz.com a website "for women by women", where you can find ideas, tips, and deals about home and lifestyle trends. Be sure to check out our website for the latest in interior decorating, green living, lifestyle trends, handpicked shopping deals, entertaining, book reviews, and much more.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Simply Beautiful...
How could you say "no" to this beautuful piece of crystal. Fit for a princess, and all her royal subject. Displayed with a chocolate layer cake, white Chocolate truffle bundt cake, or gourmet cookies, serviced on this wonderful platter full of lushes goodies. Stand 12" tall and 12" square round, with bubble of crystal for holding, on the side of the dish, that make it oh so sweet. Base is wide for crystal top so it will not toddle over, also very detail on the bottom to give it wonderful chrome like appearance to go with any home deco.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Tea & Crumpets on this Luxurious Crystal Serving Plate
This luxurious piece of glass works come from the depression age 1920's, with intricate detail it will work for any occasion. It stands 12" tall the plate is 10" round, it can be used for any tablescapes, or serviced at holiday or wedding function. A center piece that will bring more ohh's and ahh's readily. Breakfast toast, pastries or dinners rolls, serviced on this beautiful plate, with a candle pestal moded together is one of a kind. At an unbeatible price, it's package and ready to go to a good home. Wrapped very dedicately will we ship immdiately after purchased through Paypal, visa, mastercard or debit, checks accepted with stipulation(shipped after cleared) Shipping is ups or fedex whichever you prefer. Enjoy this wonderful one of a kind crystal plate, use it daily it will make you feel special.
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