L.A. is abuzz with parties every month of the year. The city’s impressive caterers, chefs and the like set the bar pretty high for us when we go to throw a dinner party at home – and we’re learning from the best.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering with a few friends or a large dinner party for the holidays, we love the idea of a gorgeous bar or food station and a well-styled tablescape. Urban Palate’s Creative Director, Wilmarose Orlanes, creates stunning layouts – like the ones shown above – for a living: We asked her to divulge a few keys tips to achieving these beautiful looks at home…
The options are truly endless when it comes to styling a tablescape, as there are many elements to play around with that can enhance the aesthetics of your food (color palettes, textures, props, backdrops, floral, etc.).
We encourage you to have fun with it and explore your creativity! Experiment with different materials, look for design inspiration on Pinterest and Instagram and you’ll find your own way to create a beautiful and eye-catching display.
Cake Stands + Risers
Using cake stands and risers is one of my favorite ways to dress up an otherwise simple looking food station — freeing up space on your station for other design elements (such as menu cards and florals).
Typically, I shop at stores like Sur La Table or work with local artisans, but discount home goods stores carry affordable ones as well! CHECK OUT HERE
Marble + Slate
Using marble or slate for cheese and charcuterie (or other stationary bites) is a clean and contemporary way to enhance your tablescape, and compliments a rustic, modern or traditional design.
Whenever I’m looking for marble or slate, I shop at retailers like Crate & Barrel, Anthropologie and Pottery Barn. CHECK OUT HERE
Jewelry Boxes
This is one of our most popular looks, and can be achieved by purchasing glass jewelry boxes and filling with charcuterie, crudité, desserts – or really any small items that are easy to grab. Another fun trick is to put decor or flowers inside and place your food on top!
I’ve purchased ours from Crate & Barrel, but you can always get creative and find beautiful and unique jewelry boxes at antique stores or flea markets. CHECK OUT HERE
Colorful Books
For those looking for a more DIY approach — try stacking up books (or renting books with colorful covers, like we did for this event) to create elevation and a separation between items. You can even rent book props from FOUND rentals. CHECK OUT HERE
