Decorate Your Table with Nature
By Kristie Leong
Photo: © Andrejs Nikiforovs - Dreamstime
 Whether you're planning a summertime outdoor party or a simple lunch, the experience can be enhanced by adding natural accents when decorating your table. Your guests will feel special when they see how you've added a gentle touch of nature to their dining experience. Need some ideas? Here's how to decorate your tablescape with the beauty and tranquility of nature:
A Flower Theme - Start with an oversized floral centerpiece made of freshly picked flowers that are bursting with color. Pick up the color of the flowers with the tablecloth and napkins. Press a small, natural flower onto each guest's place card. Tie each napkin with a brightly colored ribbon and a colorful, fresh flower. To add contrast, place glass or silver bowls and salt and pepper shakers on the table. Play up the floral theme by serving a cake with edible flowers as a garnish or use |
edible flowers to garnish ice cream, pudding, or gelato. You can even freeze small edible flowers in an ice tray and use them to add color to drinks. Be sure the flowers you use are truly edible and are completely free of pesticides.
The Sea Theme - Who doesn't love the power and beauty of the ocean? You can play up the sea theme on your table by creating a stunning centerpiece using sand and shells. Intersperse natural looking candles or tea lights between the shells to add more atmosphere. Further enhance the theme by drilling holes in the center of seashells and stringing them on elastic cord to create napkin rings. You can even scatter shells or polished sea glass randomly along the length of your serving table or buffet line. If you'll be having place cards, attach a small shell or starfish to each card for a natural twist. Have beach music playing softly in the background while your guests enjoy the food.
Natural Wood - Start with natural linen tablecloths and napkins held in place by wooden napkin rings. Lay some pieces of natural driftwood in the center of the table along with tea lights or birch bark candles. Serve the food on wood veneer placemats, wooden plates, and unadorned wooden bowls. Contrast the wood with glass containers for added texture and interest. The effect will be woodsy and uncluttered. |
