Setting a Simple Thrifty yet Pretty Table

It is wonderful that there is so much inspiration for setting pretty tables on the internet these days, however, it can also be a bit intimidating.  And that goes double for those who are not born tablescapers.

 

There are many out there who want to have friends over for dinner and gather round a pretty table but because they are overwhelmed by the thought of tablescaping, they either don't invite or don't pay attention to any table décor.

 

I know some of my friends and family have a great deal of angst when inviting me over for a meal.  By no means, do I expect a full blown tablescape at someone's home when that is not their passion but they fret about it! 

 

With this post however, I hope to show that anyone can set a simple pretty table on a tight budget. 

 

First step is rounding up the basics.

 

An inexpensive white tablecloth is an important start to setting your table.

(this one is from Walmart for $10)

(60" x 84" is best size for regular table without leaves)

(White goes with all colours/patterns of dishes)

 

 

Next, hit your nearest thrift store or garage sale looking for something like these type of vases.

 

 

These candleholders are from the Dollar Store but you might also pick some up wherever you find the vases.

 

Dollar Stores also have a budget-friendly assortment of faux florals like this forsythia at $1.25 a branch.

 

Head to the candle aisle at the DS as well and grab a bag of these unscented tealights.

 

 

At the grocery store, I picked up a large package of these plain white paper napkins.

 

 

A medium sized basket of any type will come in handy for storing all of the above items in one place.

 

 

Then you will always be ready to set the table at a moment's notice.

 

 

Now, I'll show you how to use the items you've organized in your basket.

 

First, the hardest but most important step - you must iron your tablecloth.  I know it's a pain but this is the backdrop for your meal and wrinkles (especially brand-new out of the package ones) are not allowed.

  

After that's done, it's super easy from there!

Use your everyday plates and cutlery unless you have something more special you'd like to try. 

No need for charger plates or placemats unless you want them.

 

 

Forks on the left, knife & spoon on the right. I folded the paper napkin diagonally under the fork. Paper napkins keep things simpler than using cloth ones as you don't have to launder them. I opted for white but there are lots of colourful paper ones on the market now.

 

 

Basic wine glasses are placed to the right, just above the knife and spoon. You don't need to worry about a red vs white wine glass or the need to have both on the table.

 

 

Place the thrift store vases down the center of the table as a start to the centerpiece. No need for a table runner as we are keeping it simple.

 

 

Cut the forsythia (or faux floral stem) into smaller pieces.

 

 

Place each separate stem in the vase ensuring that they are not too tall and that sight lines are kept clear from obstruction.

 

 

Next, place the candleholders with tealights in between the vases.

 

 

Don't forget to light the tealights once your guests arrive.

 

 

And there you have a simple, pretty and thrifty centerpiece for your table.

 

 

 

I would be very pleased to be seated at this simple yet pretty table!

 

 For those who like to place the food dishes on the table, this type of table setting allows lots of room.

 

 

Here's another take on this look - place the candleholders by each place setting and use different florals in just three vases.

 

 

The moral of this post is that anyone can set a pretty table with just a few low-cost items in a matter of minutes. 

 Don't feel intimidated anymore - Now you know the basics, you can do it!

Give it a try - you might even enjoy it...but watch out then...!

 

 

Thanks for visiting!

I'll be linking this post to these wonderful blog parties:

Saturday Sparks on Pieced Pastimes
Sunday Showcase at Under the Table & Dreaming
Amaze Me Mondays at Dwellings
Show & Share at Coastal Charm
The Scoop at Stone Gable
Inspire Me Tuesdays at A Stroll Thru Life
Tuesday at Our Home at Our Home Away From Home
Tutorials & Tips at Home Stories A to Z
Talented Tuesdays at Home Remedies
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

Swing into Spring at DIY by Design
Share Your Style at Common Ground
What's It Wednesdays at Ivy & Elephants
Thursday Favorite Things at Surroundings by Debi
Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch
Grace at Home at Imparting Grace
Inspiration Gallery at Craftberry Bush
Creative Ways at Posed Perfection
Foodie Friday & Everything Else at Rattlebridge Farm
Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Weekend Retreat at AKA Design
Show & Tell Friday at My Romantic Home