Elaborate tablescapes were once reserved for weddings and upscale events, but now even a casual meal with friends can be cause for a table that’s dressed to impress. After all, your tablescape is the first thing guests see before digging into the meal. It sets the tone, mood, and if you have one, the theme for the event. But if you’re worried that kind of decorative eye candy comes with a hefty price tag, we’re here to help you achieve table-setting perfection at three different price points to fit any budget. It’s as simple as getting creative with what you already have and adding on enhancing items you can grab on your next Target run.
Frugal Finesse, $1 to $10 per place setting
A complete glassware-to-utensils makeover for your dining space probably isn’t on the menu for a low budget. But with just a few dollars per place setting, you’ll see being thrifty doesn’t mean looking chintzy. Start in the dollar section of the store (which is often conveniently located right when you walk in). Here you can find fun and playful pieces to lend effortless inspiration to the rest of your decor. Keep the style simple by using one or two bold colors to make your tablescapes pop without having to invest in all new dishware. Another way to add color at little cost? Bright beverages! Don’t make the decor (and thus, your budget) do more than is needed; put the edibles to work as well.
Conservative Chic, $11 to $30 per place setting
Think classic style when the amount of money you can spend is more middle of the road. For a look that’s elevated while still understated, take a page from Mother Nature’s design book and look to natural neutrals. A monochromatic palette of muted greens pairs perfectly with simple greenery and elements you can find outdoors. Even house plants and succulents that usually soak up the sun on your window sill can become the star attraction when placed in the center of your table. The colors will blend perfectly, but even better, they’ll add texture and visual interest for no cost at all.
Upscale Style, $31 and up per place setting
Layering a place setting is one of our favorite ways to make a tablescape feel luxe. And that can be as simple as starting with a set of modern, clean-lined dishware to offer a blank canvas on which to decorate. A beautifully folded napkin with interesting detail and a name card holder to match the flatware easily ups your place-setting game. We like to use one or two colors to help ground the style, but done in different shades and tones to create rich depth without going overboard. While the price point of this place setting is on the high side, you can bring it down by being creative with items you already have. For example, what do you own that can double as vases or table decor? Or what are a few items you could add to the cloth napkins and dinnerware you own to add a bit more elegance and sophistication?
You can’t go wrong with a stunning tablescape–unless of course it breaks the bank. Whether you’re planning a party on a budget or have an endless supply of cash for that upcoming event, there’s a spending-savvy setting sure to impress your guests.
{Photography Credit: Caynay Photo}