Table Decor 101

Tips and Tricks for Setting the Perfect Table from Ville + Rue’s Rebecca Addington

It’s fun. It’s stressful. It’s overwhelming. We’ve all had these conflicting feelings on the brink of hosting a dinner party. These days, the guest list is probably much smaller (or should we say exclusive?) than it was for previous soirées. But when the menu is planned out and the food is in the fridge, you might find yourself thinking—wait, what’s happening with the table decor? You might think to yourself, “I saw some nice flowers at Whole Foods the other day. I could just shove those in a vase and call it a day.” But no—in such uncertain times, perhaps you want to do something special for yourself and your loved ones, and take it to the next level. 

Well, have no fear, Lancastrians, because FLL connected with Ville + Rue owner and interior designer Rebecca Addington to get her tips and tricks for creating the perfect dinner table setup. Ville + Rue is a home decor and interior design store that has found its home in Lancaster’s 101 North Queen project. This gem has a little something for everyone, with an eclectic mix of items ranging in style from modern to farmhouse, from traditional to industrial. “We realize most people’s style doesn’t fit into one category, so we try to have a little bit of everything,” Addington says. “But what we specialize in is making them all work together to create harmony in a space.” 

Now, Addington is helping us find some harmony on the table as we gather ‘round for our next dinner party—because you and your bubble deserve a beautiful meal. 

Lay it on me 

For those special dinner occasions, elevate your table design by building dimension and interest through layering. Add a table runner, placemats, or chargers to add a textural base layer to the setting. “This will create a foundation for the rest of the setting to shine,” Addington explains.

Centerpieces: Size matters 

It seems obvious, right? You’re setting the table and grab those tealight candles and fresh flowers from Central Market. But before you gallantly place your finds on the table, be aware of your table’s size. Addington stresses the importance of coordinating proportions between your centerpiece items and your table. “When small pieces are used for a large table, it tends to make the table look cluttered and unfinished. Don’t be afraid to make a statement,” Addington says. 

Consistency is key

As fashion stylists Stacy and Clinton on What Not To Wear used to say, “It doesn’t have to match, it just has to go.” The same can be said of your dinner table’s wares. Your plates and silverware do not have to perfectly match, but make sure there’s consistency in shapes and colors to pull together your table’s visual story. 

Let loose 

Once you master the rules, you can break them. Once you’ve created a harmonious aesthetic through consistency in your decor, add a little twist with a few statement pieces. Add a pop to your table with one-of-a-kind pieces that are fitting for the occasion. Great Grandma’s Christmas plate from the 1920s? Bring it out! 

Add a personal touch 

We all want to feel special. And whether it’s a small or large dinner party, you can add a little something extra for your guests with a customized place card. In addition to the place cards, you can give a nod to the season with some fun place card holders. 

Let there be light

In a world full of essential oil diffusers, let’s bring back the candle. And what better place than the dinner table? Addington suggests using small votive holders and taper candles to add warmth and intimacy. For a “lit” centerpiece, you can utilize candles and a display hurricane with vase filler to tie everything together. 

Get in touch with Mother Earth

Bring the outside in for some added texture and interest. In the plant craze of the day, it’s hard to ignore the natural beauty of our green friends. “By adding an organic element—whether succulents, botanicals, or driftwood—you bring life and energy to the table,” Addington says. 

It’s in the details 

Some of the more utilitarian items on the table—like the salt and pepper shakers, creamers, and water pitchers—should not be overlooked. “Even the basic elements, when thought out well, can add a level of harmony that an otherwise haphazard grouping could eliminate,” Addington explains. (Though I think my Gumby and Pokey salt and pepper shakers are still staying in the cabinet for my next dinner party…) 

By Allison Rohland