Dishes to Make Your Tablescape Shine

I’ve shared here before that setting a beautiful table is very important to me. I think the table is really at the heart of the home, and gathering with loved one is something that is very special to me. I know that this year, many people aren’t able to have their traditional gatherings with all their friends and family, but I want to emphasize that you can still make it special. And a gorgeous table always starts with dishes. Although they may not be the stars of the show, the right dishes can make a table setting stand out, and make a meal into a true occasion. Here are my picks for gorgeous dishes that you’ll want to treasure for years to come:

Source: Pexels.com

Mendocino Collection from Pottery Barn: These are the most gorgeous shades of cream, blue and neutrals. They have the look of artisan stoneware, but the durability of everyday dishes. The ivory color has little flecks of brown and black, and is a very timeless style. The set has 16 pieces (a setting for four) for $151, so while it’s not as affordable as a set from Target, it's higher quality and a truly worthwhile investment.

The Emma Collection from Pottery Barn: It doesn’t get more classic than this set. It’s classic white color is bright, clean, and crisp. It has a tiny beaded edging all the way around, which adds interest to each piece. It pairs perfectly with holiday colors like red and green, and would be perfect for a farmhouse style home or table setting because of its pretty charm. Pair with classic stemware and a holiday tablecloth for a look that’s unfussy and always looks polished.

Fishs Eddy Collection from West Elm: This is such a classy set of dishes. It is really glamorous, and has a gold and black edging that harkens back to the Great Gatsby! It’s a perfect splurge if you want a stylish, posh set of dishes and a very elegant dining set. It’s not as versatile as the everyday styles above, but if you want a showstopper for your table setting, this is the way to go. Pair with bold red florals and white and black linens for a high-impact, dressy look.

White and Gold Entertaining Collection from Target: This collection is obviously budget friendly, and ideal if you want these dishes to be your holiday-specific ones. They’re also inexpensive so you can get a few sets to compensate for any broken pieces as the years go by, and store them when they’re not in use. The white and gold is very classic and simple, and goes with just about any decor style that you come up with. If you’re the type to throw dinner parties, they will add an extra little bit of flair (and you can even let the kids use them!).

Want to make your table even more special? Learn to how to arrange your own flowers (yep, even if you’ve never done it before) by watching simple tutorials on YouTube! Now is the perfect time to learn a new skill!

Decorating for the Holidays (wIthout being cheesy)

I love the holiday season. Which one, you ask? All of them! I enjoy the special traditions and time with family, I love the great food and gatherings around a table, and of course, decor is so important to me. It’s one of my favorite things to create a welcoming space to celebrate special memories with my loved ones. But, holiday decor can be known as a bit cheesy. It conjures up images of huge inflatable pumpkins or oversized Christmas gifts in your lawn (if that’s your thing, go for it and love it!), which aren’t my style. I’ve learned a few things over the years about decorating while still staying true to my neutral, polished aesthetic:

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-Halloween is just around the corner, and although I don’t always decorate specifically for the holiday, I do love a moody/dark theme for the halloween season. Think black, navy, gold, and even hints of burgundy to create something that feels “moody” but still elegant. Shimmery gold charger plates, burgundy candles or linens…these can all work together without feeling like you threw some skeletons or black cats on the dining room table ;) If you don’t want to celebrate Halloween or decorate in black and orange, you can simply choose to mark the autumn season with rich jewel tones and pretty textures.

-It starts with the entryway: Your entryway is the first impression, and can set the stage for your party or gathering. Although we are still dealing with Coronavirus, it is still special to mark the holidays with your immediate family, with things like pretty wreaths, candles, or banners on the door. I like the look of the newer wooden circle signs, for something different than a wreath. If you don’t love changing your decor for every season or holiday, consider a neutral wreath that you can tuck little touches into for Christmas or easter, to make it simpler for yourself.

Don’t forget the bathroom: You don’t have to deck out your whole bathroom, but it’s really nice to add some small touch of festivity in your guest or main bathroom. At Christmastime, a tiny tree (opt for real plants or something that doesn’t look fake) with twinkle lights, and some vintage style hand towels make it subtle but sweet. You can really add a small touch of decor to your bathroom for any holiday (even Fourth of July) with things like star candles, twinkle lights, interchangeable rugs or hand towels, and little wooden signs. These things are easy to customize and change up, and they add personality without looking cluttered. Remember that less is more, and it’s okay if you only add a very subtle bit of holiday spark!

Cream and white can be festive, too: You don’t have to use tons of color if you always gravitate towards soft neutrals. For a lovely thanksgiving table, layer hues of cream, brown, and white for a really classy table (aim for textures like linen, cotton, and even burlap to add interest). You can add wooden candle holders, and greenery and, the tablescape can even be duplicated at Christmastime with some added touches. A neutral styled table can be the starting ground for any holiday, so it’s ideal to keep all those basics on hand, and then build on them when you need to.

Happy decorating!

Setting Your Thanksgiving Table

Setting your table for the holidays is so important. It might seem like a small detail, but the table (like the kitchen) can be the heart of the home. Especially during the holidays, meals and gatherings play a huge role in building community and hospitality, and we believe they can be an expression of your personal style, too! We are busy dreaming up our holiday tablescapes around here, and wanted to share our favorite pieces to inspire you. 

Photo: Pottery Barn

The Leila dishes from Pottery Barn caught our eye this season, because of their blend of sophistication and rustic elegance. They have a hand-applied glaze, and they look stunning paired with copper accents and natural wood pieces. Don’t forget the basic pieces you’ll need for a table setting, including matching flatware, and plenty of linens. You can forego a tablecloth if you want a more rustic look, but a pretty burgundy or mustard looks beautiful for Thanksgiving or harvest dinners. We also love the Scarlett dishes, which have a subtle and elegant grey/blue pattern. I’d pair these with shimmering silver accents and flatware for a dressier event. 

Photo: Williams Sonoma

Marble is not only beautiful, but the new pieces from Williams Sonoma also are functional. You can find their whole collection of serving trays and cutting boards HERE, and they look gorgeous against colors like navy and gold for an unexpected pairing. If your wallet can’t quite handle the Williams Sonoma price tags, Target came out with a similar collection, and most of their pieces are under $50. Their pieces are a great way to begin introducing marble into your decor at an affordable price. This beautiful tray is just $19.99, and would look perfect for your next cheese and wine appetizer.  

Stay right here on our blog for the latest style news and tips, and how to incorporate them into your everyday life and home! Ar you having a large party or event this holiday season? Allure with Decor offers personalized styling and event decor,  in addition to interior design. Let us know via our CONTACT page if you would like to book your event today.  Hurry, as holiday schedules fill quickly!