I love a dinner party. Sharing my home & table with friends and family is always something I look forward to. Styling your table need not be expensive nor maddening. Stay away from batty "themes" & keep it real with items you already own. Here's how. . .
You know I'm going to say it . . .
Hit up those Flea Markets. Here you will find plates, glassware, silver serving pieces & flatware. Don't be afraid of a little tarnish.
Tarn-X is your best friend and besides- it adds a little character!
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| These trays were $7 each |
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| Less than a minute later these loves have a new life |
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Doilies from the Dollar Store
Fear Not. It's a dollar |
Milk Glass vases are easy to find in second hand stores & markets. I just adore the crisp white against fresh flowers. You can also readily find various glass containers for candles or flowers.
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| I found this vase for $3 |
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Milk Glass & Vintage Bottles
Charming |
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| just add votives |
Do yourself a favor and grab a bunch of
Mint Julep cups. You will find yourself using them for everything. I even store makeup brushes in one. Pencils in another. Sometimes chopsticks. Occasionally cigars. These little fellas are your entertaining & decor staple.
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| any flower, grass, leaf or herb will do |
Empty wine bottles & simple glass containers are a Stress Free & budget friendly alternative to expensive floral arrangements. The key is to keep your flowers monochromatic and add tons of candlelight.
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| This table was put together in under 5 minutes |
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Simple is better. Consider glassware as vases.
You already own plenty. |
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The total cost of these flowers? $12
varying height & containers stretch your flower dollar |
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| Burlap. The cheapest & chicest of all fabrics |
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From a previous party
vase = free |
Candlelight is a must. I always like to use black candles as they are unexpected, edgier, and add a touch of glamour. The best way to ensure the glow is to incorporate at least one votive per guest.
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| Black tapers offset the sweetness |
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| 3 votives. 3 guests |
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| Stock up. 5 for $10. IKEA |
Table linens are a great way to either mellow out the scene or amp it up. High impact. Low cost.
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Gold rimmed glasses I found at Market
$6 for set of 6 |
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HomeGoods has the best selection of
White Dinnerware on the cheap
This love was $3 |
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| Modern. Classic. Acrylic. Set of 4 for $16 |
Above all, Relax & Enjoy yourself & company. Dinner parties are for getting together. Not stressing. If all else fails- Keep it unpretentious. And remember, simplicity leads to elegance.
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| leave the fuss behind. Have a glass of wine & enjoy! |
