HHello and happy April! I’m Michaela, and I’m glad to be back sharing simple, practical tablescape and styling tips. I recently received Melissa’s book, Love the Home You Have, and it inspired this post: small, thoughtful touches—like setting a simple table—can make you love your home more, no matter its size or style. Ready for some table styling ideas? Let’s go.
This tablescape and dessert bar was styled for The Bloom Workshop, a creative event I co-founded. The deep purples and warm tones feel romantic and inviting. We’re excited to have Melissa and The Inspired Room team joining us at Bloom Bash in Seattle this October, where they’ll share styling tips during the two-day workshop.
Tablescape Styling Tips:
1. Create a vision.
Start with a clear palette or theme. Seek out unique decor, vases, and dishes that bring that vision to life and give your table a cohesive look.
2. Make it unique.
If a table idea feels familiar, add unexpected elements to refresh it. Small twists can make a classic concept feel new.
3. Choose a statement piece.
Pick one focal element—often flowers, but it could also be a striking centerpiece or sculpture—to anchor the table and draw the eye.
4. Personalize place settings.
Personal touches like name tags or thoughtfully arranged place settings make guests feel special and show attention to detail. Design is in the details.
5. Incorporate texture.
Layer texture through flowers, branches, vessels, chargers, etched glassware, or napkins. Texture adds depth and keeps the arrangement visually interesting.
6. Use varying heights.
Varying heights create balance and focus. In our dessert bar the three main cakes form a central “V” to become the focal point. A tiered stand on books and brass candlesticks add vertical contrast, while abundant flowers soften and unify the arrangement.
7. Group smaller items on trays.
Grouping small items like mini crème brûlées on a low-profile tray fills gaps and preserves an aesthetic—creating unity and a cleaner presentation compared with scattering items directly on the surface.
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
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My everyday dining table rarely looks like this full setup, but I apply the same principles on a smaller scale: a clear palette, a focal piece, texture, and thoughtful details. Setting a simple table can refresh how you feel about your home and help you appreciate the space you have.
What are your go-to tablescape styling ideas?
Have a wonderful day!
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