In this post I’m discussing table setting tips and tricks for any occasion, but this one is special. It’s a Valentines Day tablescape that is romantically inspired and not obviously mushy or cutesy. No surprise there and setting a beautiful table to me is an art form as well as a way to show guests that you care enough to do something special.
Table setting tips and styling
Styling is something that for me comes somewhat naturally, so I’m always happy to inspire you with table setting tips. You’ll find lots of inspiration today via my post as part of the Valentine’s Day edition of our Styled + Set series that is hosted by my friend Lory of Designthusiam.
Subtle Table Style
I have always loved subtle touches in decor that suggest something and don’t scream things. It’s a personal preference, but since I’ve been in major declutter mode I’m only keeping things that mean something to me and can be used for various occasions, different celebrations and all seasons. Like my precious antique French Limoges china pattern that is softly romantic. Makes sense to use this for a Valentines Day table to me. Table setting tips that can be used for every season makes sense too.
Understated speaks my language and blush pink and soft greens simply set a romantic yet sophisticated look. Do you agree, or is bold color more your way?
I started with the table setting but then brought in a couple of complimentary accents to the room, like this round velvet pillow in blush. Set on my antique French chair it’s an extra place to sit and makes the old chair more comfy.
My buffet isn’t really a buffet at all, but a vintage dresser that works well and is stuffed with table linens that I use often. Coffee and dessert are usually set up here and more antique French china that I’ve had for years is mixed with the inexpensive paper pom poms that you may have caught my tutorial on in THIS POST.
This has been the nicest and coolest winter in Miami in years and the French doors are open to the pool!
When I have friends over it’s often just for dessert and drinks and not a full sit down meal. For some health related reasons I’ve been gluten free and dairy free for several months and this beautiful cheesecake is both!
The only obvious Valentines Day touches are some mercury glass hearts scattered on the table. I talked about setting a Valentine’s Day Table without red before HERE if you’d like to see more inspiration. The pink heart above is just a few years old and the silver mercury glass heart below is one of a few that I brought back from France. I love the patina on these antique French hearts!
Antique stemware in blush and pale jadite green and vintage toleware candlesticks that have collected years of drip marks. Perfectly imperfect old pieces are what I truly love!
A little bit flirty and feminine with this duvet cover used as a tablecloth. Double duty…saves storage space and white is washable and bleach-able with no issues.
A shot from above and I didn’t purchase one single new thing for this table setting! The flowers are faux and arranged as a garland across the table that will last as long as I’d like it to.
I hope that you enjoyed the tour today and head on over to my friend Jennifer of Town and Country Living next and then visit the rest of the amazing bloggers who’ve joined in to Styled + Set!
Looks so beautiful and inviting, Janet! I love the garland of flowers! Yes, it has the touches of Valentines but isn’t overdone. I do like subtle colors, however, sometimes I will throw in a bold color but not often! Thank you for the inspiration! Lovely!
Hi Michele…thanks for stopping by! If you scroll down you’ll see a blue share bar with a link to pin whatever you’d like. I’m going to check out adding a hovering pin button though. Still tweaking the new site! xo
I am so in love with your decorating style & your beautiful photographs. Your site is such an inspiration. I have always loved decorating in a budget friendly way & thrift stores have been my go to source for years.
Your style is timeless & I look forward to each new post. Thanks for enriching my day !
“Understated speaks my language and blush pink and soft greens simply set a romantic yet sophisticated look. Do you agree, or is bold color more your way?”
I am in love with both! I photograph and my blog reflects bright bold color, but I gravitate towards both. I can’t photograph pastels like you do, though. Your photos are amazing. I love your china, I’m a china fan as well.
Looks so beautiful and inviting, Janet! I love the garland of flowers! Yes, it has the touches of Valentines but isn’t overdone. I do like subtle colors, however, sometimes I will throw in a bold color but not often! Thank you for the inspiration! Lovely!
Thanks Babette…I hope that you find the new site easy to poke around it, LOL!
Hi Janet! Beautiful post as always, but I don’t seem able to save any of the images to Pinterest like I usually do 🙁
Hi Michele…thanks for stopping by! If you scroll down you’ll see a blue share bar with a link to pin whatever you’d like. I’m going to check out adding a hovering pin button though. Still tweaking the new site! xo
You set such stunning tables. I LOVE the dishes. I am a Mercury glass fan. These are beautiful
Cindy
Beautifully styled Janet. It is subtle and elegant so you can enjoy your company without being overwhelmed. Love those little hearts.
I am so in love with your decorating style & your beautiful photographs. Your site is such an inspiration. I have always loved decorating in a budget friendly way & thrift stores have been my go to source for years.
Your style is timeless & I look forward to each new post. Thanks for enriching my day !
Where did you get the duvet?
Stunning Janet! I love the pattern on your dishes!! So romantic! Your table styling tips never disappoint! xo Heather
“Understated speaks my language and blush pink and soft greens simply set a romantic yet sophisticated look. Do you agree, or is bold color more your way?”
I am in love with both! I photograph and my blog reflects bright bold color, but I gravitate towards both. I can’t photograph pastels like you do, though. Your photos are amazing. I love your china, I’m a china fan as well.