Every memorable dinner starts with a menu to die for, but it’s a fabulous tablescape that truly brings it to life. The right table linens can transform your meal from a simple dinner to a spectacular dinner party. We spoke to Valentina Fonseca Krug, CEO of Chicago table design and rental firm Lola Valentina, about all the ways to make your table pop for a party to remember.
Color And Theme First
“It’s very important to understand either what kind of theme you’re going for or color palette you are trying to achieve, and then put the pieces together after that,” Fonseca Krug says. “If you start picking the plates, the linens and then the florals, it just gets a little bit messy.” Be strategic about your decisions, Fonseca Krug advises. You can even create a vision board to keep your overall aesthetic cohesive.
Fabrics Are Fabulous
When it comes to fabric, you don’t have to stay traditional. Cotton and linen are great standards, but you can also try fabrics like velvet. “It definitely gives that soft, smooth feel and luxury addition to the table without being too over the top,” Fonseca Krug says. And don’t worry, you can just throw a velvet tablecloth in the wash. Fonseca Krug does recommend avoiding fabrics with a lot of sequins, however — these have to be either dry-cleaned or spot cleaned by hand, which can be taxing.
Mix And Match
While the tablescapes of yore may have looked uniform, contemporary entertaining invites you to play with color and pattern. You don’t actually have to match everything. “I prefer not to match,” Fonseca Krug says. “I think [table design] is an opportunity for somebody to get creative.” In fact, she encourages the use of a range of colors and patterns of different scales. “I think that’s where the fun part starts,” she says.
Try A Trend And A Tradition
Fonseca Krug recommends having a classic ivory-toned tablecloth on hand at all times, as well as one suited for a seasonal occasion and another with pops of color. If you’re looking to lean into a trendy look, try linens in shades of plum, yellow and orange. Bold stripes are also in — consider a multicolor stripe or a beige backdrop topped with lime green or neon pink if you’re feeling adventurous.
