The first step in designing the perfect tablescape is choosing that first layer. The linen choice sets the tone. Starting with the color scheme, texture, or shape; you then build off the chosen elements. A warmer or heavier linen makes the room feel comforting and familiar. A light and bright linen adds a sense of spontaneity and breeze.
Next you add in the other elements, whether that is more layered linen, floral, lighting, etc. The tablecloth becomes the backdrop of your design.
Whether you consider yourself a Plain Jane or the maximum maximalist, everybody must choose a linen. The magic in this choice is yours to make, a simple solid poly can clean things up. Lamour adds shine. With a pattern comes character.
Without a textured linen the room may end up looking flat and dull. A full textured linen builds the room’s shape. This is where layering comes into play- deciding between a tablecloth and napkin combination, or mixing many different patterns and materials.
Floral Linens
When it comes to patterned linens, florals are always a first choice. There are many different directions to go.
- Keeping a consistent simple color scheme, plays it safe while adding texture and depth to the design.
- Building off of the pattern and making it continue throughout the floral arrangements. This is a very sophisticated way to do things and always adds that wow factor.
- Completely contrasting a linen choice makes the arrangements pop and stand out. This look gives each individual element its own voice.
Mix & Match
The perfect example of mixing linens for texture! Here we flipped each tablescape’s linen and napkins to really shape the room.
- Mixing a lamour and floral print defined the room. The pattern selected heavily influenced the floral arrangements to develop consistency.
- The cocktail hour used a striped linen draping the cabaret tables topped with florals, introducing those continuous elements throughout the design.
Pattern Consistency
When we think about linens most of our heads look directly to tablecloths and napkins. In reality, it applies to many other areas, such as; drapery, chair cushions, upholstery, furniture and even the dance floor.
When it came to color and pattern, this client said jump and we said how high.
- Color and pattern pulled all of the different colors and textures into this room in a cohesive way.
- The contrast of the linens and centerpiece really took shape on this custom dancefloor. This turned the entire design into an experiential branding moment. It is so defined and spectacular.
When choosing a linen, it can be hard to commit but once you do you notice how big of a difference it makes. If this all seems like too much for you, add in our linen consultation package when planning your next event and we will walk you through it all!