Secretary of the Interior

When asked to create a tablescape for the Land-and-Sea-themed night of SLM's Food Wine Design event last week, I thought of one of my favorite movies, Somethings Gotta Give. It’s no secret I am a hopeless romantic, but it was the gorgeous beach home that won my heart. The pea gravel driveway, the abundant hydrangeas, the kitchen, the beach! I'm sure I wasn't the only one who stood at the DVD player, studying each room frame by frame.
 

 

With my inspiration home in mind, pulling this tablescape together was a breeze. The mood was set with a monochromatic palette that was all about combining natural elements and textures.

When designing a table such as this it is really important to have multiple heights and lots of layers. The table’s underskirt was a natural yuma with a white hemstich linen overlay. We then added the pilings to the center and topped them with lanterns to create the base and vertical interest. The next natural elements brought to the table were sea oat secured in oasis and buried in sand, viburnum and of course, hydrangea. Shells I have collected over the years were tucked in for a sentimental touch to further represent the sea. 

The table sparkled and shimmered in the candlelight with its various surfaces, such as mother of pearl, glass, and pewter. Instead of adding one candle to glass vases, we filled them a quarter of the way with sand and added three tapers along with tiny starfish and shells. I live for a happy ending, and reminiscent of my favorite flick, this tablescape did not fall to deliver... It was romantic, sophisticated, and fun. Two thumbs up!