Cinnamon sticks smell so good…nobody will notice you burned Christmas goose…
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Isn’t that how the song goes? We should know, considering the Christmas music starts earlier and earlier. I, for one, love all things holiday, except the wine stains on the carpet and the required weight gain (I am a certified expert at both – we all have our special talents).
After spending many years in the catering and event planning business, combined with my many years of overcommitting to social engagements that seem to always be at my house, I can set a table in my sleep. Well, not sleep per se, but bleary-eyed zombie-like state from too little rest and too many quality checks of the margaritas during the party prep. I never learn. Does tequila really go with stuffing prep or potato peeling? I say yes. Martha Stewart would be appalled, but Martha had three fewer children than I, and she has a driver, so I am right.
If anyone can pull together a beautiful table, it’s Epicurean. Why? Because Larry DiPasquale is a perfectionist and was born with incomparable taste.
Not that we have to set a gorgeous table, because once Epicurean’s food arrives and the wine is poured, we could be serving our fare on cafeteria trays and everyone would still be happy. It’s that good. I’ve told you about the risotto, right?
Anyway, table settings need not be fancy or frilly, but they do need to be pretty and functional. Here’s a sneak peek to some stunning but simple tablescapes that won’t have you reaching for the tequila.
Fresh rosemary adds just enough green to a simple tablescape.
Don’t want a bare table? Use a painter’s dropcloth as a tablecloth or cut them into napkins – it’s so inexpensive you won’t feel guilty throwing everything out at the end of dinner.
Feeling bold? Break out of the green and red tradition and go for a more modern palette.
…or deck out your table in creamy white.
Vintage decor is always in style. This DIY centerpiece would be a fun take-away for guests. I just noticed similar ornaments at West Elm – so cute!
This sweet menorah makes a Hanukah table even more special.
Cleaned-up tin cans covered with blue paper celebrate the Hanukah season.
Old song sheets makes forks more festive!
Greenery isn’t just for mistletoe.
Gold accents paired with earthy add-ons keep this look from being too frilly.
Dig out an old Scarbble game and use the pieces for a cheeky design.
This plaid screams cozy holiday. A tartan throw used for nights by the fire turns a table into something special.
Family photographs ups the aaawww factor.
Holiday books get elevated status when built into a funky Christmas tree.
Add a spring of something green (and not poisonous) to your stemware. This photo is clearly for decoration only, but by using something edible, you can add some personality to the table and a new spin on cocktails. Try lavender or a small skewer of cranberries.
Epicurean Group 