Chineserie Cheer
SETTING UP FOR THE HOLIDAYS IS A BREEZE WITH THE PROPER KNOW-HOW
Setting up for the holidays is a breeze with the proper know-how
WITH THE HOLIDAYS fast approaching, planning upcoming gatherings is already part of your to-dos. The remaining months of the year will give us enough time to prepare and think of how to amp up this year’s celebrations, especially the things you’re going to put on your table. It’s 2019, after all, and there’s no better time to veer away from the conventional way of decorating than now. Instead of piling Christmasy plants as centerpieces, why not go for themed porcelain pieces? For another unique twist, trade the usual green plants for bright flowers that add more charm to your table setup. The subtle use of different patterns in this setting complements every element used, while the spread of table mantle still gives off that festive appeal. Tasteful, modern, and exciting—that’s the goal.
For this Christmas-inspired tablesetting, Metro Home Editor-in-Chief Anton Barretto shares his nine rules on setting up your table—consider this Table Setting 101 from the expert himself!
1. When setting a table, first always think of a theme.
2. Gather elements you have around the home to use as props.
3. When working with a color, you may opt to do a monochromatic scheme or
choose a dominant color and accent with contrasting colors. If you choose to go all the way and do multiple colors, use the colors in a more or less even manner.
4. Mix elements, shapes, heights, textures, and patterns.
5. We all know the rule of keeping table centerpieces low so everyone can see each other. But sometimes, we can’t resist using items that are quite high like candelabras, DIY wine bottles as vases, the list goes on. Go ahead and use them, but add gaps in the middle to allow some “unobstructed” views of the guests in front of you.
6. Fresh flowers always look beautiful, but if you don’t have them on hand, opt to cut leaves from your garden. The use of herbs, fresh fruits, or even a charming composition of fresh vegetables can be interesting. When sourcing leaves from your garden, cut them an hour before the party so when you put them in containers with water, they will look fresh. If they do not, you have time enough to look for a substitute.
7. Try using different patterned china, cutlery, and stemware. You will be surprised that mixing things up actually work.
8. Name cards are always a nice addition to the table setting.
9. Always make sure that you set the table with the proper utensils based on your menu.