Tablescaping – Shoreside Breakfast
1. Define the theme to create the atmosphere: I started with inspiration from the shore of the lake in early summer. The blue gray water, smooth stones in shades of beige, light grasses, and a warm breeze inspired this mid-morning treat by the shore. A highly portable set up, that is.
2. Starting with a base: Not one to be found carting a large table over numerous rocks and boulders, I started with a sturdy collapsible round table, easy to tote along and quick to set up. Make sure to scout a spot to set up that is flat and won’t cause your table to lean treacherously to one side. I brought along two comfortable lounging faux wicker chairs to accompany my table and two plush pillows with a subtle whimsical pattern cushioned the backs.
3. Set/Layer the table: I brought along a tablecloth, as one does, to this picnic. In keeping with the light and breezy theme, I chose an oatmeal colored linen to spread over the table. The salad-sized plates were a blue gray color harmonizing with the water’s tones Since the tone was informal bordering casual, I skipped the knives and opted to pack light with just forks. (Well, we did bring one knife to cut the tart.) I added the white coffee cups with the gold rim to elevate the setting.
4. Now for the Linens: I chose to thread a simple beige linen through a woven ring to add texture and also for simplicity of use. The ring adds just enough texture to offset the plain serviette and the plain stoneware plate. I could have used a subtly patterned serviette here too, if I had one. Something in the beige, blue, black, or white color palettes would have been coordinated nicely.
5. Curate your centerpiece: I gathered my centerpiece from the shores of the lake, rather than bringing foliage with me. Afterall, it’s much easier to gather nice looking branches and grasses on site than to try and transport such things. I used a simple stoneware crock to keep the grasses upright. I could have also used a simple glass vase or jar. A candle outdoors isn’t usual, but if you’re trying to keep the bugs away, it’s quite helpful. I didn’t put away the match box because it was cute.
6. Personalize the details: Again, I kept this table very free of clutter. As it was small and there wasn’t much room after the plates and the food and the centerpiece were on, I decided to keep the details natural and useful. I used a small smooth stone to keep the serviettes from blowing away.
Key Tips:
– Make use of your surroundings – Don’t bother to bring fake plants and greens, use the real thing! Take a short walk and pick up anything that fits your table.
– Pack Light and pack practically – Use tablecloths to cover unsightly folding tables or use a provided table if you’re at a park
