Dining Decor: Cloudy with a Chance of Happy

Fall is on the horizon, which might mean more gray skies and gloomy days coming our way, but that certainly doesn’t mean gray and gloomy days indoors. It’s still blue as far as the eye can see, at least in my world! I’m choosing to celebrate the joys of the season in a perky and peppy way, through one of all of our favorite pastimes – eating! Yes, you read that right. And no, I’m not talking about binge eating to pretend like the seasons aren’t changing. I’m talking about making your meal as festive as possible. No matter the time of year, the weather outside or the color of the sky, you can set whatever mood and tone you want with the right table decor.

Unlike Mother Nature, which we sadly cannot change, we have full control of our indoor atmosphere (at least at home) and can set whatever mood we may want. One of the most fun things about table decor is that the littlest change, like a centerpiece, can make a world of difference. You can add a pop of color, bring in some soothing natural elements or use it as a place to highlight food. As I always say, you don’t have to spend a lot to get the look you want. Start by shopping your own home – your pantry, display shelves, basement storage. Odds are you can be creative and find fun ways to dress your table, and set your mood- whether that is gray skies or blue skies. And if need be, find a great sale or a discount store to purchase exactly what you want. (Pro Tip: Sales are a great time to build your design pantry and stock up on items like napkins rings and placemats.)

With all my tablescapes, I like to mix and match elements. Modern with classic, brights with neutrals, expensive with cheap. You name it, it can be done! With this particular table I used a few key elements to build the foundation, then added on with accessories. I used blue napkins as placements, positioned in a diamond pattern to add dimension and highlight the centerpiece(s). I layered beautiful wooden chargers with gray plaid plates and bowls. I incorporated blue again, this time with a lattice detail for napkins, wrapped in a subtle coral (the sea element, not the color) napkin ring. My first centerpiece brings in more natural elements with a wood bowl and succulents and a complimentary gray bowl. My second centerpiece also has natural elements, with another wood bowl and apples – super easy centerpiece with a fun pop of contrasting color. My third centerpiece brings out the sweetness of the tablescape colors – rich wood and soft blue pair beautifully with baby pink vintage Fiestaware dishes. Another pop of color, but it blends seamlessly.

Now more than ever, we need to work on setting the tone we need, curating our own experience so to speak. If it’s as simple as putting together the perfect table to fit (or mold) your mood, why not give it a go. Plus, it gives you an excuse to dress up (you and your table) and enjoy a great meal with loved ones.