I wanted to try something new this year, I chose a Garden theme for my Easter table decor. I knew my grandchildren would love the old cast iron bunny statue, surrounded by pots of herbs with their names on garden markers, vintage garden tools, and more pots! My daughter and I were excited to create the centerpiece, featuring fresh heirloom carrots with their long stems trimmed, yellow tulips and fresh Swiss Chard leaves. She’s an avid floral designer but hasn’t tried using edible vegetables as a centerpiece…. yet! I have no doubt that she’ll be making this for her own table.
At my local grocery store, from the craft aisle, I chose popsicle sticks for name markers; before I saw a pack of 16 floral shaped markers that I thought would be easier to use.
I now have a centerpiece, name cards, and fresh herbs to go along with the garden theme, yellow tulips to brighten the table, what else could there be?
The Peter Rabbit paper plates and napkins were chosen by my Instagram readers/followers, voting that they thought the children would prefer Peter Rabbit over the other choices, in a quick survey. Making another selection, after asking my followers for their opinions, would have been a low blow, and beneath me to even think about it. True to my word, I stayed on the Bunny Trail!
For a table runner befitting of a garden, I chose a burlap fabric. A natural, nubby and rugged fabric, I thought it would be perfect for the rabbit, an antique storage box for height, and my vintage garden tools and clay pots. I prefer the “unfussy and natural” in my decor.
To top it all off, I used a small clear wine glass, without a stem, for each table setting. I casually tucked the scalloped napkin under the plate with the edge sticking out to show off the shape, the silverware was crisscrossed over the plate, careful to not cover Peter Rabbit. With children at the table, the wine glass was an odd choice, but with all of the herb pots and fresh plants, it was beginning to look very “full”, so small and clear is what I stayed with.
Friends, the decisions I make when I edit myself, are the times when I can step back and actually learn what works and what doesn’t in a display.
Never be afraid to try a new idea, this could be the best decision you’ve ever made.
As a whole, the group around the table thought it was, “really pretty, or great! or what made you think of putting garden tools on your table?!” and my personal favorite was, “what should I do with the paper plate?” I am choosing to believe that the tablescape was a huge success, certainly an “ice breaker”, starting many conversations at the table!
My hope is to encourage you to go beyond your comfort level and try something new the next time you set a table. Whether your group is a “table for one,” or you need extra chairs, remember that welcoming guests into your home, starts with warmth and sincere generosity.
How things look…is important to me, but not to everyone else. I need to remember that. This is the main way I “edit” myself. I tell myself that I am hosting because these people matter to me, I truly enjoy their company and I want them to enjoy themselves and their time with us.
On my blog, I’ll be adding more to my “series” on Hospitality, and I’d like to do this on a “regular” basis. After all, a form of hosting is appropriate for all occasions, each month will have its share of opportunities to celebrate.
Today, I wanted to share my Easter table with you one more time, while the day is so near. After I set the table I made a quick reel for Instagram, before my lettuce and radish leaves wilted….SO MUCH PRESSURE!!!! (Remember, I am SO into details!)
We’ll talk soon!
Hope your Easter was fabulous!
XO,
