Set a pretty table with sunflowers and pumpkins, and get inspired by these ideas for creating a yellow and gray fall tablescape.
Ideas for Tables with Sunflowers and Pumpkins
If you enjoy setting a pretty table for special occasions or want to try something new, here is a sunflowers and pumpkins table to give you inspiration and ideas.
Use Cut-Out Names for Place Cards
This table uses cutout names as place cards. I ordered them on Etsy several months before I planned to use them. They are laser-cut from wood-look acrylic in a pretty, scrolling handwriting. You can order other words, such as “thankful” and “grateful,” instead of names if you prefer. I like these cutouts because they work well for place cards, can be reused (if you invite the same people), and work well as gift tags. They also offer an affordable price point.
Use a Dark Background for Light-Colored Names
The names are in a lighter color, making them less suitable for white or light-colored plates. To address this, I used white plates for my table setting and placed darker charcuterie boards beneath the names. Alternatively, dark napkins can be placed on the plates before adding the cutout names, or you could opt for dark dinnerware instead.
Placemats for Sunflowers and Pumpkins Table
Many different types of placemats would work on this sunflowers and pumpkins table. I chose natural-colored placemats because they complemented the charcuterie boards and other natural items on the table the best. Additionally, you don’t have to use placemats if you don’t have anything that complements your table setup. If you want contrast, use a dark plate on a lighter table or tablecloth, or white on a dark table.
Use Mini Charcuterie Boards
A good place to get mini charcuterie boards is at a discount home goods store. You can also find them online in various sizes and shapes, but you will pay a slightly higher price. Alternatively, instead of placing guest names on the boards, you could set a pumpkin or an appetizer for a festive touch.
Set the Background Using Block-Printed Table Linens
This large tablecloth has a printed border around the bottom and sides with gray printed designs in the center. Block-printed and embroidered table linens are currently in trend. If you want to use these linens, look first for vintage linens — possibly some that family members used a few years ago. You can also find lots of block-printed linens online. They vary in price because some are printed on heavier fabrics than others. Additionally, the design complexity and the number of colors used contribute to the cost of these linens.
Table Centerpiece with Sunflowers and Pumpkins
This table showcases a beautiful combination of live sunflowers and real pumpkins, enhanced by an array of faux elements, including pumpkins, berries, and leaves. I have a deep appreciation for fresh flowers and pumpkins, but they aren’t always available in the specific colors and varieties I desire. A helpful tip is to invest in a few faux flower stems and pumpkins for your table arrangements, especially when you’re short on fresh items to complete your decor. In fact, some faux flowers are so realistic that it’s difficult to distinguish them from the real thing—and they offer the added benefit of lasting much longer!
Be Flexible on Flowers
This centerpiece was initially intended to feature white sunflowers, but fresh ones were unavailable. Instead, I used a mix of fresh white Gerber daisies and yellow sunflowers. Sometimes the alternative plan works out just as well as the original plan!
Sunflowers and Pumpkins Table: Mix and Match Drinkware
Mix and match your glasses until you find a combination you like. If you only need one type of glass, set the table that way. It is nice when you have several glasses on the table, but it is not always necessary. This table has vintage silver goblets and modern gray goblets by Vietri.
Use Drinkware in Different Ways
Also, unless you are having a formal dinner, use glasses as you see fit for your beverages. It is all about enjoying the meal and the company of the guests. Additionally, many people are unaware of the differences between types of glasses and their respective uses. It is more important to make guests feel comfortable than to ensure they use the correct glass for their beverage. Additionally, goblets make lovely flower vases, so consider new ways to utilize your drinkware.
Candles for a Sunflowers and Pumpkins Table
I used three types of candles on this table: gray tapers in short holders, orange pillar candles, and pumpkin-shaped candles. Candles can set a pretty mood for evening meals. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using them.
Catch Dripping Wax with Bobeches
Taper candles drip a lot, so look for dripless varieties. You can also purchase bobeches (pronounced bō-ˈbesh) to slide over taper candles, preventing drips from ruining your table and linens. There are clear ones that are not very noticeable. Many modern chandeliers have bobeches even though electric lights do not need them (shown below). They are a design holdover from the days of candle-lit fixtures.
Avoid Scented Candles
It is best to use unscented candles when serving food, as many candle fragrances can overpower the aroma of the food. Since smell helps to whet the appetite, don’t let candle scents overwhelm your delicious meal!
Health Concerns and Candles
Some guests may have health conditions that make breathing smoke difficult. You can address this issue in one of two ways: either set the table with candles without lighting them or use battery-operated flameless candles.
Candleholders
The star-shaped candleholders (shown below) are ideal for keeping tapers low on the table. These holders are also available in a square design. They are quite affordable and can be spray-painted in other colors to suit your preference.
Other Fall Tables You Might Enjoy
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