Hello and happy April! I’m Michaela, and I’m excited to share simple, practical tablescape and styling tips with you today. Recently I received Melissa’s book, Love the Home You Have, and it reminded me how much small, thoughtful gestures—like setting a simple table—can help you fall in love with your home again. Below are tips I used when styling a dessert table and tablescape for The Bloom Workshop that you can adapt to any setting, large or small.
This tablescape and dessert bar features a warm palette with deep purples and soft neutrals. The styling highlights how choosing a cohesive color story and layering texture and height can make a table feel intentional and inviting. I’m also thrilled that Melissa and The Inspired Room team will be joining us at our Seattle Bloom Bash workshop this October, where they’ll share styling tips live.
Tablescape Styling Tips:
1. Create a vision.
Start with a clear palette or theme. Collect a few key pieces—vases, dishes, linens, and decorative objects—that express that vision so every element supports the overall look.
2. Make it unique.
Even familiar ideas can feel fresh with a twist. Add unexpected elements or mix styles to give a classic tablescape your personal signature.
3. Choose a statement piece.
Pick one focal element—lush blooms, a sculptural centerpiece, or a standout cake—and let it anchor the table. A clear focal point helps the eye rest and gives the design purpose.
4. Personalize place settings.
Small touches, like name cards or a thoughtful napkin fold, make guests feel seen and cared for. Details matter—design is truly in the little things.
5. Incorporate texture.
Texture adds depth and keeps a table from feeling flat. Use textured glassware, patterned chargers, linen napkins, woven placemats, branches, or varied floral choices to build visual interest.
6. Use varying heights.
Varying heights create movement and focal points. On the dessert bar pictured, three main cakes were arranged in a V shape at the center to draw attention, while a tiered stand on books and tall candlesticks add balance and contrast. Grouping elements at different levels makes the whole display feel dynamic and intentional.
7. Group smaller items on trays.
Placing small items—like mini desserts or condiments—on low-profile trays creates unity and keeps the arrangement tidy. Trays anchor small pieces so they read as part of the overall composition instead of floating randomly across 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
Though my everyday table is more casual than this setup, I use the same principles on a smaller scale: a clear vision, a focal piece, layers of texture, and personal details. Setting even a simple table can change how you feel about your space and encourage greater appreciation for what you already have.
What are your go-to tablescape styling ideas?
Have a wonderful day!
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