What is a Tablescape?

The term tablescape is often used interchangeably with terms like tabletop arrangement or centerpiece. However, a true tablescape is actually a bit more complex. While tablescapes often adorn the center of the table, they are more than centerpieces. They are design plans, an overall look that addresses the entire table or surface as well as its surroundings. Every item is chosen specifically to complement not only other items on the table but also other elements of the space. A tablescape should also incorporate elements of the season or occasion. A breathtaking tablescape display can set the mood for the entire … Continue reading

Are You “Martha Stewart Challenged”?

My friend is funny. She always says things that make me laugh. Her latest is her new habit of calling herself “Martha Stewart Challenged.” When she asked how I would like it if I was thus challenged, I replied, “Hey, who isn’t?” I’ve got nothing on Ms. Stewart. I just like decorating and finding new ways to do things around the house to keep from becoming bored (and boring). I don’t want to get to the point where the only things I have left to talk about with my husband are the best carpet cleaners for pet stains or just … Continue reading

Handmade Touches for the Thanksgiving Table

Do you like to sew or otherwise make decorative elements for your home? While some people may do things like this year round, others may be more inclined to do so during the holiday season. Maybe, you have never tried to make your own decorations but if that’s the case, don’t let it stop you. One way to practice your skills is to make beautiful accents for your holiday table. Tablecloths are simple and can be made from most any large piece of fabric, by simply cutting to size and hemming the edges. Place mats and table runners can be … Continue reading

Tips for more Functional Thanksgiving Entertaining

These tips will actually work for Thanksgiving or anytime. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal or giving a dinner party they will help make things more functional when serving guests. While many people choose to serve a “family style,” Thanksgiving dinner, where platters and bowls of delicious food are passed around the table, some may find that the dining table soon becomes to full of good food to be very functional. Instead, you might consider setting up a buffet. A good way to do this and still keep the food the focus is to set a serving table or sideboard … Continue reading

Fall Decorating and Design

How formal are you when it comes to fall decorating? I’m more of a “decorate” person than a “design” person. I arrange, adjust, and arrange some more until I achieve a look I like. I try not to do the same thing twice two years in a row, unless it’s just something I adore (the same is true for Christmas and other holidays). I have heard of people that create a specific design, and stick to it year after year, even taking photos of the completed design to store with the decorations. That way, the next year, they can decorate … Continue reading

Home Week in Review: September 17 – 23

It’s officially fall (or autumn depending on the term you prefer). Kids are back in school, the weather is changing along with the leaves, and holidays are on the way. Our focus has turned from summer fun and gardening to home and family and preparing for events to come. We’re already thinking about special occasions that will arrive soon, and there’s no better time to start preparing. Begin by getting all those Weekly Cleaning Chores and Monthly Cleaning Chores out of the way. Then you can move on to something a bit more fun such as decorating and adding some … Continue reading

Tips for Use and Care of Leaves for your Décor

The number of projects you can make with gorgeous autumn leaves is literally limitless. From creating your own artwork to simply sprinkling them across the top of your coffee table, there are numerous ways you can incorporate leaves into your fall decorating. Since leaves will soon be falling (if not already in your area), I thought that some tips for the use and care of leaves might be helpful. Clean Leaves Even if you decide to pick leaves from a tree instead of picking them up off the ground, you still need to clean them. Inspect each one carefully for … Continue reading

Five Tips for Affordable Autumn Decorating

Try these simple affordable autumn touches to get your home ready for fall: Color, of Course Adding great autumn color is almost always first on the list, but try to find new places to inject warm color. Try lining your shelves with fabric or adding a runner in the front hall to add warmth and softness. Fall Flowers Mums or “pot mums” come in gorgeous colors just right for this season. You can purchase potted mums in decorative containers or simply pick up some in a plain flowerpot and select your own planters. Fresh flowers always add charm. Simple Centerpiece … Continue reading

The Autumn Table: Pretty Plates

Fall is one of my favorite times of year, and so I have really been enjoying the Home Blog and all of the fun fall stuff that we can write about, especially when it comes to decorating and the Autumn Table. I have been picking up a lot of great tips from Sherry, such as the one where she explains, “What is a Tablescape?” And you may recall an article I wrote about choosing one of three designs in 3 Natural Autumn Centerpieces. I still don’t know which one to choose, so please leave a comment and help me out. … Continue reading