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| Christmas tablescape that did take some planning |
Seems we here at BTS are always finessing tablescapes right up until the moment guests arrive, but we're always on the lookout for new inspiration and themes. Suggestions and advice come in a variety of sources. including, just this week, our local paper, (The Birmingham-Bloomfield Eagle) which featured an article, "Dining Decor can brighten your festive feast". It was filled with ideas for holiday table settings, adding a bit of comfort along with a slight admonishment.
Let's get the "tough love" out right away - per the article, and I quote- "Reminder: don't wait until the last minute to begin setting up your table."
While that's truly the ideal, and some years we're more prepared than others, we do always have the tablecloths selected, washed (and, in rare cases, even pressed) and ready to cast out on the designated table or tables a few days in advance. China, crystal, candles are also washed, polished and dusted before the big event. But, while loving the traditional, we also welcome change and new approaches to arrangements and accommodations and if they come with a few time-saving suggestions, so much the better.
Per the "Dining Decor. . ." article, tablecloths set a more formal tone, but for a more casual vibe, placemats should be used. Color also adds to the mood - "bright colors, red and green, are for the holidays. . . (but) there are other options. Blues are relaxing and cooling (and) very popular right now."
So, if you are a little short on the classic Christmas colors, use any in blue hues and you'll be remarkably trendy!
Looking for some quick table decor? The article suggests going out to your backyard and cutting some evergreen pieces for your table. Or, place some shiny ornaments in a glass or crystal bowl - standalone or in addition to the greens.
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| Chargers can add some flare for not much fare |
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| Chargers for wedding reception |
Chargers are also recommended to add some easy and effortless visual effect - and they don't have to be pricy. (They can even be found at the dollar stores.) We're very fond of these table accessories and used them this fall for a large, outdoor wedding reception and again, this month for small, festive gathering.
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| Same charges used for small, festive get-together this month. |
The comfort I found in the article was the advice to not feel the need to have everyone at the same table. Over the years, we've expanded and contracted our table needs - adjusting as the family grows, relocates, comes back, and increases again. This year, we're returning to multiple tables, practicing social distancing as well as comfort.
One new item to my table this year that I found on-line, that is also relatively fast and easy, is a new napkin presentation! - specifically, folding it into the shape of a Christmas tree. There are a number of sources on this, but we followed the instructions from Homes and Garden. If you have the time, a freshly ironed napkin is recommended. (We were slightly pressed for time, excuse the pun, so our tree had a few curls at the corners, but still, overall, a nice effect.)
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| Napkins folded into Christmas trees are new to us this year! |
We embrace the tablescape - sometimes with a lot of prep time and sometimes less so - but, perhaps, articles that emphasize more planning should come out before the week of Christmas. :)
But, wait until next year - Downton Abbey comes to Bloomfield condo. (Napkins will, indeed, be ironed!).
Tablecloths or placemats, dining tables or snack trays, rack of lamb or pizza, it's all about the spirit of the season and the family and friends you share it with.
Merry, Merry Christmas from Barb's Tea Service!!
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