Table Tops: Glass Platter with White Berries and Pillar Candles
Published July 19, 2012
We spend hours planning the menu, cooking the meal and yet when it comes to setting the table we tend to panic at the last minute. Does this sound like your house? This year start a new trend and plan ahead with your table setting for your next dinner gathering. Table centerpieces do not have to be fussy and time consuming. I always feel “less is more” when it comes to designing the table. Simple yet effective choices can be very dramatic.
The best way to avoid stress is to plan well in advance. If possible, choose a colour scheme and focus all elements of the table to coordinate with this theme. For holiday tables, pinecones mixed with boughs are always a traditional favorite. However, if a contemporary table is more of what you prefer, silver baubles mixed with white orchids or amaryllis is always effective.
For something a little more middle-of-the-road, try this simple centerpiece made with pillar candles, white berries and ribbon. This combination is both traditional and contemporary in it’s appeal and will fit with many different decors.
Materials
- Clear or white rectangular platter
- 3 to 4 short pillar candles
- 1″ wide satin or organza ribbon
- White artificial or fresh berries
- Sage green or alternate colour berries
Begin by lining up your pillar candles along the rectangular platter. Tie the candles together with the ribbon and cut off any loose ends. Arrange the sage berries around and through the candles until it looks quite full and thick. Once this is complete, gather the white berries around the platter as a second layer. Place the pillar candles in the center of the table and scatter tea lights around the centerpiece.
Other simple ideas table ideas include filling vases with colored glass (available at florist and craft shops) and placing contrasting pillar candles inside. Scatter fresh noble fir boughs around the candles and add baubles for added effect.
Remember to use fresh fruit for table centerpieces as well. Pomegranates and granny smith apples are wonderful for adding colour and texture to a table. Scatter pears around green candles and winter boughs and don’t be afraid to use non-traditional coloured fruit such as lemons and limes. The contrasting textures and colours blend beautifully with winter greens and candles.
