Styling a Table for Entertaining

Mar 19, 2023Uncategorized

The Scout Guide Naples recently hosted a Scouted Masterclass, featuring tips from creative experts at Judith Liegeois Designs and Kaleidoscope Floral on styling a tablescape for entertaining. More than 60 guests enjoyed wines from Hailstone Vineyards, small bites from Artichoke & Company, a book bar featuring city guides from across The Scout Guide’s national network, shopping, and an interactive presentation in the courtyard at Judith Liegeois Designs’ showroom in downtown Naples.

For those not in attendance, we’ve got you covered! We’re recapping some of the high points of the presentation here, including how to utilize what you already have at home to create an impressive table design that reflects your personal style and taste.

TRADITIONAL DINNER

This tablescape was created by Judith Liegeois and Matthew Kritis for The League Club’s annual Naples Tables event, which showcases individual tablescapes created by local Naples designers and tastemakers. They chose a tonal look inspired by the English countryside for a soft, romantic garden party feel.

Here are a few takeaways:

Balance a traditional style with unique vessels and acrylic accents to make it modern. These ceramic vases with an organic shape, available at Judith Liegeois Designs (383 12th Ave. S., Naples), come in a variety of colors and are an unexpected option for easy flower arrangements. Simply snip the stem and place it in the hole.

Choose a centerpiece that allows ease of conversation across the table. An acrylic centerpiece works well because it doesn’t obstruct anyone’s view—and you can still place your flowers on top.

Color is in, and it allows you to add some unexpected visual interest to your table. Play with color in your accessories, like napkins and colored glassware.

LUNCH OR BRUNCH

This table, designed for a daytime event, was inspired by a meadowy, whimsical vibe that plays well off of eclectic flowers and plants.

Napkin rings are important and offer an opportunity to add a touch of playfulness, elegance, or other mood. Simple white linens are easily elevated with an interesting napkin ring.

Mix and match your plates. Combine a traditional modern plate with various, unmatched finds from local vintage or antique shops.

When opting for colorful glassware and accessories, neutral flowers work best.

Allow your table to tell a story and set the tone for the gathering through your selections. Unique pieces on the table can make great conversation starters, too!

CASUAL DINNER WITH FRIENDS

Hosting an impromptu get-together? You don’t need to invent something new; use what you already have in and around your home!

Use vintage pieces combined with modern ones. Matthew loves resin pieces from designer Tina Frey for their low-maintenance nature and organic shapes. Pick them up at Judith Liegeois Designs (383 12th Ave. S., Naples).

Layering adds dimension and visual interest to a table. You can utilize placemats, a charger, and add a bowl on top of the plate—an especially fun option when you start with a soup or even sorbet.

When it comes to glassware, for a casual gathering, use simple, everyday glassware you already have in your cabinet.

FLOWERS FOR TABLESCAPES

Sean Stevenson, co-founder of Kaleidoscope Floral, shared some tips for easy, do-it-yourself floral styling.

You don’t need very manicured flowers to make your tablescape pop. Go outside, cut some stems from your own landscaping, and put it in a vase. Forage for different colors and textures of greenery. An extra perk: It will last for a week or more.

When using flowers, incorporate colors that pull from your table items. If you pick the right varieties, you don’t need to do much arranging because they stand out on their own.

Want more unique options than those that grow in Florida? Visit Kaleidoscope Home (321 Fifth Ave. S., Naples) for fresh flowers flown in from Holland. They receive new varieties daily!

Give common flowers like roses or tulips a unique look by folding petals individually back toward the stem (called “reflexing”).