How to Mix and Match with Style!
When it comes to TABLE TOP settings there are beyond zillions to choose from. Like a kid in a candy store I get EXCITED at the sight of them all. Just try to hold me back at Pottery Barn, Sur La Table, Crate and Barrel, Williams Sonoma and one of my favorite TREASURE troves, Anthropologie! Having to pick just one setting, pattern or design simply boggles my mind? I love them all! Fortunately, my brain sees things in a convenient light. It takes all that I see, scrambles it all up and spits out a compilation of everything for my table! Stemware, flatware, dishware, linens and more – yup all together! It’s my very own MIX & MATCH style.
This could be a disaster – I have absolutely had some good LAUGHS at myself! But for the most part it turns out EXQUISITELY UNIQUE. I’ve got some fabulous TIPS and pointers to share with you, so YOU too can create your own “Mix & Match” style!
REASONS to love Mix & Match:
1. You can buy one instead of the whole set of champagne glasses, plates, linens, napkin rings…
2. Mix & Match allows you to express yourself by being creative and having some fun with your table top design
3. It shows confidence in your style and as a host/ess
4. Great reason to start collecting table top accessories as you travel and bring individual pieces home
5. Makes for a great conversation as you explain how you picked your pieces
6. Allows you to recycle incomplete sets
TIPS for Mix & Match:
1. PICK ONE COLOR or THEME and stick with it. I like to buy all white plates in different shapes, sizes and shades of white.
2. MIX TEXTURES – I have a collection of silver napkin rings. I love to use them all: matte, shiny, tarnished, rippled, they all belong!
3. STICK TO SIMILAR THEMES – If your theme is botanical bring in varying pieces that support your theme.
4. REINVENT WHAT YOU’VE GOT – Have an assortment of mis-matched candle sticks? Paint them all one color and make it a collection.
5. FLEA MARKETS & SWAP MEETS – Are a host/ess best friend. You can go insane with all the gorgeous one-off heirloom pieces and best of all, haggle on the price!
6. OLD & NEW – Combine salvaged pieces with contemporary and you will bring dimension and character to your table.
Table-top design is a form of ARTISTIC EXPRESSION! The Mix & Match style makes setting the table dynamic and FUN. So the next time you set your table give yourself permission to be PLAYFUL and try new things. When you ENJOY the process of getting ready for your PARTY, you not only feel good, but you make your GUESTS feel good – one of the most admirable qualities of a WONDERFUL HOST/ESS!
