The House on Ladd

With no real reason, other than to document at some level, here are a few tablescapes I’ve done in the last couple of years. I really don’t have rhyme or reason to “how to” make your table look nice, and sometimes I struggle with making them feel full or “finished,” but I love the creative outlet of planning and doing a table.

I did not grow up with fancy tablescapes. My mom would put out a turkey-shaped candle, or Christmas tree shaped candles out on the table with a pretty table runner for holidays. (The table runner I accidentally cut while wrapping presents one Christmas, but we still used it for a few years with the cut pushed together!) But outside of that, it was not something I grew up with. And none of my friends’ families really did either. Growing up the 90s (or earlier, if you’re not a Millennial like me), we all had waayyyy less pressure on aesthetics. While I have always cared about clothing and decor that transcends trends, the time before Pinterest was so much more laid back.

Anyway, since getting married and running my own household, I’ve come to appreciate the process of preparing for guests! Is the cleaning fun? No. But the menu planning, table planning, prep, cooking, table set up… That is so fun for me. Working in a left-brained field that does not appreciate right-brained people is exhausting. This helps 🙂

First up: My Birthday. I decided a couple of years ago that I’d rather set up a fancy table, buy flowers and cook for my birthday dinner with family rather than going out. I get to pick my own menu and make or buy my own cake, and it’s just a lot of fun.

For 33, it was a Kate Spade inspired table. I made silly little signs: “Gemini and Feelin’ Fly” and “Let’s Just Eat Cake”. Peonies + Teal + Green = Perfection.

Next up, Christmas. We don’t do Christmas with family at my house, it’s always Christmas Eve at my in-laws and Christmas Day at my parents. Extenuating circumstances caused us to have a small family get together last year. I saw someone on Instagram make these bow napkins and had to try. They are so easy and adorable!

This next set up was fun. We had 27 seated for our college ministry’s Leadership Team Friendsgiving. We designed our house to seat 20 on a dime, and by turning our dining table, we are able fit way more than we probably should… But clear plastic plates and a festive paper napkin can really elevate a budget tablescape. The only thing semi-precious on the table are the vases and table runners. All else is disposable! These chiffon table runners have been used for holiday dinners and showers; they’re a great, inexpensive item to have on hand and you can find any color you like on Amazon.

Did you grow up with fancy tables? I’d love to hear!

xo, Amanda