Spring is in full swing as we near the end of April.  We had guests over and I wanted a table top that used things I already owned but was fresh and light in honor of the season. 

What Can I Use?

I knew that I wanted to use rocks and probably candles but beyond that, the ‘look’ was pretty vague.  I gathered together some various spring-type doodahs I had around and started playing.  I started the look with the bamboo runner which is a great neutral backdrop.

Some preliminary supplies.

As with most centerpiece arrangements, I wanted to keep everything low so it wouldn’t interfere with conversation.  But as I’ve mentioned many times in previous posts, there has to be a variety of heights and textures.  So I got to work.

 I found I actually own quite a variety of rocks and they all came into play.  Black river rocks scattered over the runner create the base and connect all the elements but the bright green candles and vine balls add a little of that spring color to the grouping.  I raised the jar of red & cream rocks by putting it up on a candle holder and added height and a different texture at the other end by using a pillar candle.  Did you notice my touch of whimsy?  That little grasshopper will show up in my arrangments all summer. 

I really like how the arrangement came out and while it quietly celebrates spring, I also find it has a zen quality to it that appeals to me.

Place Setting

Now with the centerpiece done, it’s time to set the rest of the table.

A place setting idea.

I tried a couple of placemats (forgot to take photos) but they seemed too busy and competed with the centerpiece.  I simplified the look by using a charger.  I love these cloth napkins that just seem festive and very spring like, but again – a little too much going on.

Tried this napkin and it seemed the opposite – too calm and subdued.  Back to the drawing board………

The winning place setting.

I opted for this napkin arrangement.  I like that the green reflected the green of the candles and just seemed more springy.

As you can see, I like the whole mis-matched look (except for dining chairs!) – my salad plates are all different, but within a theme, and my wine glasses are all different (I always buy wine glasses in singles).

Here’s my finished table, ready to welcome my guests with a touch of spring – and some ice tea.

Mantel Change-Up

Oh, by the way, remember I showed you my spring mantel makeover a couple weeks ago?  I changed it again (yes, again) because I wanted to bring in some cut branches.  Here’s a quick shot of it’s current state.

A revised mantel look to include some cut spring branches.

Let’s See Your Tables

I showed you mine, now let’s see yours.  I know lots of times we don’t spend much time really decorating the table.  We slap down some plates and silverware and call it good.  But even when it’s just a routine meal with the kids, sometimes it’s fun to just add a little something special.  What things do you use to spiff up a table the quick and easy way?  Show us simple, show us elaborate – we’d love to see some of your table ideas.  Email them to solutions@YourDecoratingHotline.com. 

You can see more great projects and tablescapes at these blogs so check them out when you have time:  A Soft Place to Land, or over at A Stroll Through Life, or at Between Naps on the Porch, and last but not least over at The Inspired Room.

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