Soft light bathes the table, grace lives in every detail and warmth fills guests' hearts — creating a welcoming and truly unique ambience is the true art of event planning. Whether you are designing the tablescape yourself or working with a team of professionals, there are many factors to consider to ensure that your occasion is not only soulful, but also a visually immersive journey and an authentic culinary experience. Fabric textures, sophisticated color palettes, the warmth of dramatic candles or the glow of natural light — these are a few of the parameters that already can inspire one’s creative vision. When planning your own unique tablescape, you can't neglect the soul in every detail of this beautiful symbiosis. Read on for helpful insights into creating your personal dining work of art.
@ilona_bilchuk , @miguelcarrizo
Find the Focal Point
Start with a concept, a thought, a color, an idea or a theme that will unite all the components of the overall design. This focal point doesn't necessarily have to be one centerpiece, it can too be a form that repeats itself in shapes and colors, moving down the line and from table to table. In order to determine what is essential for your tablescape, it is recommended to start by compiling a moodboard to highlight and emphasize the key features.
Add Depth
Determine what is central to your design. For example, is it volume, dramatic proportions, unusual shapes or color play? From the moment the solution is clear you can move towards realization. It can be a modernist approach with ultra-minimal decorations and table settings, or a more poetic touch with the introduction of texture through natural fabrics, floral centrepieces and flickering candles.
Lighting is Key
Finding the right balance of your lighting is essential to setting the mood. It can't be too bright, too dark, too warm or too overhead, creating unflattering perspectives on every detail. It's a subtle difference, but the whole event atmosphere and the quality of the photos can be directly influenced by the light sources, and make for magical moments if done right. If opting for a large event or venue, we always recomend to leave it to the professionals for the best execution.
Introduce Natural Elements
Flowers can be spotted in the most breathtaking and unexpected compositions in event design. However, think outside the box for an unconventional and intriguing approach in favor of mushrooms, wood, stones, vegetables and fruits. Your imagination will tell you what will best suit and complement your table, but you don't be afraid to go beyond and broaden your perspectives.
Consider Unique Table Arrangements
One of the defining characteristics when planning guest interactions and seating arrangements is the shape of the tables and their configurations. Decide as early as possible how many tables there will be, e.g. several small round tables, one trendy o-shaped or long infinity table, or a sweeping curved style. The right choice will not only be the deciding factor for the flow of conversation, but will also largely determine the thematic atmosphere of the whole event — for example, soft shapes and the absence of corners will noticeably smooth out the environment and make it softer, while the presence of corners, on the other hand, will make the spirit of the event more refined.
@zegnaofficial, @confettiacolazione
Pay Attention to the Finer Details
Folded napkins, tablecloths, napkin rings, place cards, unique glassware, vases, flatware, menu design — all these small details make up the overall beauty and the feel of your design. They act as little curious for guests to discover as they draw in a little closer, so is a great opportunity to get creative and inventive with your curation.
Enjoy the Process
Tablescape styling is meant to be a fulfilling, artisically experimental experience. Make sure to design a setting that fels uniquely you, so you can enjoy yourself along the way. By finding joy in the process, you are more likely to pay attention to the smaller details, creating an inviting table equally special for both you and your guests.
