Yes! Your “Formal” Table Settings Can Be Full of Whimsy!

 

Please! I beg you!! Don’t ever feel that choosing “formal” china, stemware, and silverware is a bad idea because it’s too “stuffy” or boring. While it may initially be intimidating to consider a tablescape filled with porcelain and crystal (especially if you’ve watched Downton Abbey!!) ...

Let us encourage you otherwise! Check out these fun ways to add charm and whimsy to the elegance of choosing “formal” …

Photo Credit: https://ruffledblog.com

1 – Use Mismatched Patterns

There are SO many lovely vintage patterns and colors of china, stemware and silverplate! Feel free to mix and match your favorites to achieve a whimsical cottage look that’s less formal, but still extremely charming and elegant. Choose a single dinner plate for each place setting for simple meals, or stacked mismatch for meals with multiple courses. 

Photo Credit: https://thevintagetable.com.au/

Photo Credit: https://rusticweddingchic.com

2 – Add Unexpected Elements

We found one of our favorite “unexpected elements” when we attended a holiday banquet … when we entered the banquet hall, we noticed the centerpieces were hanging from the ceiling above each table. 

There are lots of ways to add the unexpected! Use a vintage brooch as a napkin ring ... 

Photo Credit: http://vivalavintageforyourhome.com

... or a teapot as a vessel for your flowers. 

Photo Credit: https://www.weddingomania.com

Need a special “favor” for guests to take home? Embroider the monogram of each guest on a vintage napkin and use it as a place card at each table setting. Be creative and have fun!

Photo Credit: https://www.donovandesignlinens.com

3 – Choose Florals From Your Garden

Flower arrangements designed by a professional are stunning and, many times, exactly what you need. However, using florals from your own garden is an exciting way to add a personal element to your tablescape. Fresh flowers are always delightful and choosing a variety of mixed vessels will give you another opportunity to add playfulness to formality.

Photo Credit: https://www.yahoo.com/news

Photo Credit: https://karaspartyideas.com/

4 – Make Dessert A Fun & Fanciful Affair

Rather than serving desserts as a final course at the dining table, consider a self-serve station that combines cottage charm and elegance. Choose a vintage buffet, hoosier cabinet, or side bar. Fill with desserts and stacks of vintage china and glassware so guests can enjoy their favorites in a more leisurely fashion.

Photo Credit: http://www.scoutrentalco.com

Photo Credit: https://www.stylemepretty.com

Add a coffee and tea bar with the same theme as the perfect complement!

Photo Credit: https://www.deerpearlflowers.com

We hope these ideas will be the perfect starting point to creating a comfortable formality at your next special event. Now ... Relax and enjoy your next "formal" affair!!