farm to table

Dishes to Make Your Tablescape Shine

I’ve shared here before that setting a beautiful table is very important to me. I think the table is really at the heart of the home, and gathering with loved one is something that is very special to me. I know that this year, many people aren’t able to have their traditional gatherings with all their friends and family, but I want to emphasize that you can still make it special. And a gorgeous table always starts with dishes. Although they may not be the stars of the show, the right dishes can make a table setting stand out, and make a meal into a true occasion. Here are my picks for gorgeous dishes that you’ll want to treasure for years to come:

Source: Pexels.com

Source: Pexels.com

Mendocino Collection from Pottery Barn: These are the most gorgeous shades of cream, blue and neutrals. They have the look of artisan stoneware, but the durability of everyday dishes. The ivory color has little flecks of brown and black, and is a very timeless style. The set has 16 pieces (a setting for four) for $151, so while it’s not as affordable as a set from Target, it's higher quality and a truly worthwhile investment.

The Emma Collection from Pottery Barn: It doesn’t get more classic than this set. It’s classic white color is bright, clean, and crisp. It has a tiny beaded edging all the way around, which adds interest to each piece. It pairs perfectly with holiday colors like red and green, and would be perfect for a farmhouse style home or table setting because of its pretty charm. Pair with classic stemware and a holiday tablecloth for a look that’s unfussy and always looks polished.

Fishs Eddy Collection from West Elm: This is such a classy set of dishes. It is really glamorous, and has a gold and black edging that harkens back to the Great Gatsby! It’s a perfect splurge if you want a stylish, posh set of dishes and a very elegant dining set. It’s not as versatile as the everyday styles above, but if you want a showstopper for your table setting, this is the way to go. Pair with bold red florals and white and black linens for a high-impact, dressy look.

White and Gold Entertaining Collection from Target: This collection is obviously budget friendly, and ideal if you want these dishes to be your holiday-specific ones. They’re also inexpensive so you can get a few sets to compensate for any broken pieces as the years go by, and store them when they’re not in use. The white and gold is very classic and simple, and goes with just about any decor style that you come up with. If you’re the type to throw dinner parties, they will add an extra little bit of flair (and you can even let the kids use them!).

Want to make your table even more special? Learn to how to arrange your own flowers (yep, even if you’ve never done it before) by watching simple tutorials on YouTube! Now is the perfect time to learn a new skill!

Hosting the Perfect Farm to Table Dinner Party

What better way to usher in summer sun, longer nights, and warmer temperatures than hosting a beautiful farm to table dinner? Gather up your friends and some good wine, and make it happen! We recently styled this gorgeous spread, and have a few tips for you as you plan your own!

-Be flexible: When working with local produce and farm-to-table recipes, you have to have a loosely planned menu in case an ingredient doesn’t pan out. Be flexible and keep your mind open to last minute changes.

-Prepare as much as you can ahead of time:  Mason jars and other glass containers can hold dressings, drinks, and other side items that you want to prep early on. You want lots of time with your guests, and fresh food is why you are there!

-Don’t forget seasonal drinks! We love the idea of a basil lemonade, or fruit infused waters to add some extra flair to your menu. Large glass drink dispensers look beautiful wreathed in greenery and filled with pretty waters!

-Send your guests home with goodies! We whipped up some little preserve jars with mini wooden spoons, and tucked them inside strawberry containers for a reusable favor. Other ideas would be recipes (especially for the foods you served that evening), glass jars, pretty dishtowels, or soaps from local artisans.

-Lastly, set the mood! Beautiful lighting and styled decor (of course we love the look of ample greenery, crisp whites and linens, and simple glass cups with twine and burlap mixed in) can help make your guests feel at home and welcome. If you’re interested in professional styling, give me a call!