For a recent dinner party, I was asked to help with some table styling for the evening.  As the days and nights are getting cooler and there was a chance of rain, we decided to set up for entertaining indoors in the dining room instead of outside on the back patio.

A bright and warm palette is right for August.  The Barcelona inspired colour scheme began with the table runners and napkins from the hostess’s collection.  We wanted a relaxed atmosphere for dining, but a scheme that still had special elements to make the guests feel welcome and pampered.  We decided to use two cheerfully patterned table runners down the lengths of the table with natural flax quilted placemats on top.  Seeing the wood tabletop underlined the relaxed country vibe we were looking to achieve.

A day before the gathering, I picked up two fresh cut flower bouquets from a local farmers’ market.  The flower bunches chosen for the two arrangements were slightly different from each other.  Similar but unique arrangements add some interest and complication to the scheme but still coordinate with the table linens.  The bloom selections available in August have a natural and easy going look, which worked with the dining theme.  The stems were trimmed down and the lower leaves removed so the bouquets could fit into classic French tumbler glasses.  The arrangement height is low so guests will be able see around the table when seated for easy conversation.

The hostess’s warm white dinnerware and everyday flatware worked with the look seamlessly.  Pulling from her collection, the oval stoneware bread basket and large red lanterns where included in the centre of the table and were filled and lit before guests arrived.  For a bit of summer fun, we incorporated pineapple embellished water glasses too.  Pineapples are a symbol of hospitality and welcome and with this final touch, the table was ready for the dinner guests to enjoy a nice evening together.