weekend brunch
family gathering
cocktail party
dinner with friends
Setting the SceneMake bouquets of fresh herbs such as rosemary, bay and mint sprigs tied with a piece of raffia to decorate each plate.
A small votive candle positioned at each place setting gives a warm glow to your dinner party - and makes everyone look younger too.
Using mismatched dinnerware is not only okay, it's fun. Try creating a separate and distinct place setting for each guest - from napkin colors and napkin rings to glassware, silverware and china.
Use stacks of half-size glass bricks (available in any home improvement store) to elevate central flower arrangements so that they don't block the sight lines of guests around the table.
Pass a basket of color-coordinated washcloths or towelettes that have been moistened with warm water. Your guests will appreciate the opportunity to freshen up before the meal is served.
Brightly colored all-cotton dish towels make inexpensive and interesting napkins. Color coordinate them with your china or tablecloth.
Designer fabric remnants can be used for buffet tablecloths.
Scatter rose petals over the tablecloth just before the guests arrive for a lovely table setting.
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