Hello and happy April! I’m Michaela, and I’m excited to share a few simple tablescape and styling tips with you. I recently received Melissa’s book, Love the Home You Have, and its practical advice about appreciating and caring for your home inspired this post. One of the simplest ways to cultivate affection for your space is to set a thoughtful table—small styling touches can make a big difference. Ready for some tips? Let’s get started.
The images here are from a tablescape and dessert bar I styled for The Bloom Workshop, a creative event I co-founded last year. The deep purples and warm tones still make me swoon. I’m especially excited that Melissa and The Inspired Room team will join us for our Seattle workshop, Bloom Bash, in October. They’ll share styling techniques during the two-day event—can’t wait!
Tablescape Styling Tips:
1. Create a vision.
Start by choosing a clear palette or theme. Let your color story guide your choices for dishes, linens, and decor so everything feels cohesive.
2. Make it unique.
Even if a concept has been done before, add unexpected elements—an unusual vase, a textured charger, or a surprising accent—to make the arrangement feel fresh.
3. Choose a statement piece.
Pick one focal element—a dramatic bouquet, an eye-catching centerpiece, or an artful object—and design around it so the table has a clear point of interest.
4. Personalize place settings.
Small personal touches—name tags, handwritten notes, or a favorite treat at each seat—make guests feel welcome and show that you put thought into the gathering. Design is in the details.
5. Incorporate texture.
Texture brings depth and visual interest. Combine elements such as fresh florals, branches, woven chargers, etched glassware, linen napkins, and varied vessel finishes to keep the eye moving across the table.
6. Use varying heights.
Mix heights to create dimension. For a dessert bar or centerpiece, cluster taller items in the middle or back and layer shorter pieces in front. In our setup, three main cakes form a central focal point in a V arrangement, while tiered stands, stacked books, and candlesticks add contrast and balance. Abundant flowers tie everything together.
7. Group smaller items on trays.
Grouping small items—like mini crème brûlées—on a low tray fills gaps and maintains visual harmony. Trays unify disparate pieces and enhance the antique or curated vibe of a dessert display.
ARTISTS | Photography: Ashley Slater Photography / Vintage Rentals (china, chandelier, upholstered chairs, etc.): Southern Vintage / Flowers: Lindsay Coletta / Venue: Vinewood Plantation / Cake & Desserts: Blooming Flour Bakery / Cake Table Styling: LeeAnn Hurd of Southern Flair Events / Design & Styling: Michaela Noelle Designs
These looks are dressed up for an event, but the same principles work on a smaller scale for everyday dining. Applying a few of these tips—choosing a palette, adding texture, creating a focal point, and personalizing place settings—can transform your table and help you appreciate your home more. Setting a pretty table often leads to greater contentment with the space you have.
What are your go-to tablescape styling ideas?
Have a wonderful day!
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