FIVE CREATIVE SPRING TABLETOP IDEAS YOU’LL LOVE (AND INA APPROVES)
Creative spring tabletop ideas that are easy to pull together.
Discover these five creative spring tabletop ideas, from an award-winning event planner.
Of course, I already knew I shared a love of entertaining with Ina Garten. But I never thought I’d also share the same page as her.
And then, it happened.
Confused? Let me explain …
I was beyond thrilled to be recently asked by a reporter to provide some thoughts on creative spring table decor ideas for a feature on which she was working for Homes & Gardens.
Easy peasy. That’s right up my alley.
I love talking about table decor! And as you know, I love writing about it even more!
What I didn’t know, was that I was going to be featured alongside Ina Garten.
Wait, what (insert records scratching here) … ??!!???!!
The Ina Garten? The woman also known as the Barefoot Contessa? The one who has written dozens of best-selling cookbooks and is a Food Network star?
The woman who is always standing right next to Al Roker on Today?
Yup.
That Ina Garten.
I COULDN’T BELIEVE MY EYES!
On a random Tuesday, I clicked on the link that was sent to me by the reporter and exclaimed, “OMG!” at the top of my lungs.
I was captivated. Hanging on every word in the article discussing “Ina Garten’s Spring Dining Table Challenges Design Conventions.”
Because there it was.
The quote I’d provided on spring tablescapes …
“‘Essential items for tablescapes for me include curated linens (they can truly set the mood, whether whimsical or elegant. and everything in between), well-thought seating options (don’t just reach for your same old chairs), and an interesting floral display, which could be one big arrangement, multiple individual vases or a seasonal garland of greens down the center of the table,” suggests Annemarie Schumacher, founder of Make Every Day an Event. “The key is to truly embrace the season and its wealth of treasures.”
Annemarie Schumacher. Ummm … that’s me.
I was quoted in the same article as Ina Garten.
After I picked myself up off of the floor, I came to a realization.
Ina Garten’s personal style and spring table decor philosophies are completely similar to mine.
Ina and I share “spring-table sensibilities!”
Is that even a thing? I’m not 100 percent certain it is. But, regardless, i’m going with it.
Because now I love her even more!
Here are some easy ideas for your spring table setting and your spring table decorations I know you’ll love.
And I’m fairly certain, Ina Garten would approve of them too! Enjoy!
1. CREATIVE SPRING TABLE DECOR IDEAS: SPRING TABLE DECOR SHOULD INCLUDE MORE THAN PASTEL COLORS
Soft pastels are great, but a few vibrant colors thrown into the mix can really make a spring table pop. To create fresh spring vibes, your spring tablescape can include a variety of bright colors at each place setting.
One of the easiest ways to do this is by adding colorful napkins. Another great idea is to add a fruit bowl with fresh produce.
Centerpieces don’t have to always be floral.
An irresistible bowl of fresh fruit such as lemons, pears, oranges, or even, tomatoes, placed strategically within your tablescape can really be an easy way to make an elegant spring statement.
Another great way to add color to your tablescape is to add a table runner on top of your tablecloth.
And finally, don’t forget the charger plates. Chargers don’t always have to be metal or glass, they can be something as simple as round placemats. I love these grasscloth placemats, because they also add texture.
2. CREATIVE SPRING TABLE DECOR IDEAS: EVERYTHING ON YOUR SPRING TABLETOP DOESN’T NEED TO MATCH
When pulling together a tasteful spring-themed tablescape, all of your place settings, linens (and even your chairs), don’t necessarily need to match.
Ina Garten suggests it is much more interesting to mix things up. But the key is to mix them up thoughtfully. If you keep to a common color palette, the look you create can give of a vibe that is effortlessly chic.
This is one of my biggest tips to help create a vibrant and beautiful spring tablescape.
My mother-in-law was a master at this. She had a gift for combining patterns and colors that didn’t match, but somehow harmonized. The result was always perfect.
Can you combine a floral and a gingham patter? Absolutely! But they need to be in the same color palette, Think yellow and white gingham with a soft blue and yellow print.
The lemon print and checkered tablecloth above is a perfect example.
I also love this when pulling together serving pieces and dishes, as well.
3. CREATIVE SPRING TABLE DECOR IDEAS: CONSIDER INTERESTING SEATING OPTIONS FOR YOUR SPRING TABLE
When I am designing an event for a client, one of my favorite tricks is to use rental chairs. There are some really great options out there and they are also very cost effective.
The same can be true for at-home entertaining!
Switching up the chairs around your dining room table can really transform a space for a special occasion.
On the average, you can rent chairs for about $10 apiece. And there are so many different options from which to choose at your typical party rental store. They don’t need to match with your dining table.
CREATIVE SEATING OPTIONS FOR YOUR SPRING TABLE …
While chiavari chairs are super popular, they aren’t my favorite because their design makes them somewhat uncomfortable. They have a very straight back. Consider one of the following options when looking to swap out your dining chairs:
King Louis chairs — these chairs are padded and have a hint of French design flair.
Crystal ghost chairs — a great option for a sleek modern look and can be used with or without cushions.
Crossback rustic chairs — the natural wood of these chairs brings a warmth to any table.
White folding chairs — these are perfect for outdoor events.
If you don’t want to rent or rentals aren’t available in your area, consider utilizing slip covers for your existing chairs to give them a new and different look.
These are also great if you are combining two different chairs to meet your numbers but want a uniform look. Most fit easily over standard folding chairs. Here are some great chair covers you may want to consider:
Spandex chair covers — come in a variety of colors.
Satin chair covers — can lend a formal style to your spring table.
Polyester chair covers — dress them up with sashes, ribbons or florals.
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4. CREATIVE SPRING TABLE DECOR IDEAS: CREATE AN INTERESTING FLORAL DISPLAY FOR YOUR SPRING TABLE
The floral centerpieces on your dinner table can bring a lot of personality and drama to your gathering or special occasion.
Small vases with seasonal blooms, placed down the center of the table can help you create a great spring centerpiece in a matter of minutes. Fresh blooms and fresh greenery are always great ideas for spring floral arrangements.
I keep a small supply of glass or ceramic vases on hand. You can use them to arrange an infinite number of interesting floral displays for your spring tables. Typically, I simply save them from flower arrangements that have been sent to me or ones that I’ve pulled together throughout the year. You can also find them for pennies at estate sales. They’re small and come in handy throughout the year. I store them with my other holiday decor. I especially like having three of the same vase.
Play around with various combinations of shape and height. You’ll soon discover, there are no rules. if you’re new to flower arranging, simply choose blooms of the same color. A monochromatic palette is a foolproof way to create a stunning floral display.
5. CREATIVE SPRING TABLE DECOR IDEAS: EMBRACE THE BEAUTY OF SPRING WITH NATURAL ELEMENTS!
When creating your tablescape, consider bringing the outdoors in with some thoughtful additions. Spring is a perfect time to embrace natural materials, natural fibers, natural textures and seasonal accents. They are an easy way to add a touch of spring to any beautiful table.
A great place to begin looking for materials to work with is the farmer’s market. Another, and more obvious option, is simply in your backyard. As spring begins to bloom, there are likely countless options right in front of your nose in your very own garden.
Even branches or twigs can be great additions to a spring table.
You should also consider adding mosses onto your tablescape. Their deep green color and interesting texture can really bring a lot of personality to any spring table.
I hope these five spring table decor ideas will help you create a beautiful setting for all of your spring gatherings. There are lots of reasons to celebrate within the spring season!
What are your favorite creative spring table decor ideas? Share them on Instagram with the hashtag #makeeverydayanevent and tag @makeeverydayanevent!
Looking for additional spring ideas? Check out these blogs:
Great Spring Tablescape Ideas You’ll Love
Adorable Ideas for the Perfect Kentucky Derby Party
Discover the Azalea, The Official Cocktail of the Masters
