Since during Christmas time we all tend to spend more than any other holiday, I have created a simple inexpensive tablescape very mindful of budget. I have always loved creating a tablescape but I realize that for some people this can be a little stressful and expensive. I'll give you here a few simple tricks to do a simple yet beautiful tablescape.
Use what you have
I started with the plates that I have owned for a while but just use what you have, there is no need to get new ones unless you are looking for some. And if you need new plates, white plates are your best friends since you can always add colorful napkins or table runners to add color to your table. Also, don't ever be afraid to use plastic or paper plates to create this look....we all have to start somewhere. The place mats are from IKEA and here are some similar ones in case you don't have an IKEA close to you.
Think Frugal
I found most of the decor items at this table at the Target dollar spot section. Some were $3 like the white houses....and for the record let me say that I don't know why Target calls it the "dollar spot" since there are items for $3, $5 and even $7...but anywho, it did helped me create this simple tablescape at a very very small budget.
The bottle brush trees were $1 each and you can find some here
and the silverware is actually plastic and you can find it at Target, Party City or here
The small wreaths under the houses were also from the Target dollar spot and they were $3 each. You can also find very inexpensive ones at Hobby Lobby and Michael's. When you shop the after Xmas sales, grab these items since they can be used for other places like below the plates or behind the chairs. Also think beyond #Christmas, some items can be used for #tablescapes throughout the year, so keep that in mind. Add a spring ribbon to a wreath and Voila, Spring decor!
Add a Center Piece
Add a special center piece to your table. Think a bigger item than the rest of the items on the table...it could be flowers here, a Xmas item you might have or a special ornament placed on a cake pedestal. I added this Santa from Home Goods for $12.95.
Create Coziness
And to create a more cozy tablescape, twinkle lights add to the ambiance and I like to buy them with a white cord so the green cord doesn't pop on the white tablecloth.
Also adding candles always does the trick too... I spent about $6 for a set of twelve votives. Here's the link for the ones I purchased. I use unscented candles on a table since I don't like them to compete with the food smells.
Add Character
I like to add items that do not match exactly to the rest of the table, like this tree next to the Santa. It is not like the other trees on the table and I feel like it gives the table a bit of whimsy and charm.
This tree was from Walmart where they sell all the little village items and you can also find them at Hobby Lobby and/or Michael's. Some fun ones here for you.
Be Creative
I love a linen tablecloth, who doesn't, right?... but the price is always a bit steep so I learned to use drop-cloths for a similar look.
Purchase a drop cloth from Home Depot and wash it a few times to relax the fibers (I added bleach to mine to relax the fibers even more) and it will give you a very similar look for a fraction of the price. And even though I now own a linen tablecloth, I use my drop cloth quite a bit.
Look at on-line Markets
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Garage Sales, Flea Markets are always a great place to find items at a very reasonable price... so look often for the item you are looking for and eventually you'll find it.
Tablescapes do not need to be elaborate to be beautiful. Start playing with the items you have on hand first and you'll be surprised what you can create. And use these frugal ideas to create a beautiful table that wont break your bank.
I hope this has inspired you to create a tablescape of your own.
Alicia
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