Scared of Setting a Table?

When we saw this stunner of a table from Haley Kelly Events, we fell hard. Look at those colors! Look at all the elements she worked in! If you (like many of us here on staff, we must admit) are stuck in neutral territory, take the plunge into the land of vibrant, layered looks. Haley shares some easy tips to get there in haute style.

➊ Pick a starting point. “I start with one piece that I know I want to incorporate,” says Haley of Haley Kelly Events. “From the second I saw this runner from La Tavola I jumped on incorporating it.”

➋ Give paper goods a little oomph. “It’s easy to resort to a flat-print menu,” says Haley, “but I like adding in texture. For example, you can add a patterned vellum layer or a grommet with the seating card attached.” Here, tying a keepsake velvet ribbon made the menu a showcase piece that echoed the chairs.

➌ Turn to fashion. A pink gown from Betty Bridal Atelier was the next “must.” (Brides, same goes for you; look to your gown to set the tones for your event’s style.) The rest of the elements were chosen to complement the frock’s pale blush tone and that mustard-hued La Tavola runner.

➍ Add tchotchkes. “When I create a tabletop at home for a party,” says Haley, “I always have extra ‘props’ on hand to mix in, whether that be two different salt cellars, an alternative napkin choice, or different colored candles.” Check out specialty rental groups to add such pieces to your shower, luncheon, rehearsal, or reception.

Vendors

Images: Alex Thornton Photography, www.alexthornton.com

Planning: Haley Kelly Events, www.haleykellyevents.com

Venue: Lowndes Grove, Patrick Properties Hospitality Group, www.pphgcharleston.com

Styling: Carroll + Ashe, www.carrollandashe.com

Florist: Vero Designs, www.vero-designs.com

Rentals: Ooh! Events (furniture, tabletop), www.oohevents.com; La Tavola Fine Linen (table runner), www.latavolalinen.com; The Social Spool (napkins), www.thesocialspool.com

Paper goods: Lytle Fober

Calligraphy: J.Lily Design, www.jlilydesign.com

Model: Tara White Odom

Bride’s attire: Carolina Herrera through Betty Bridal Atelier, www.bettybridalatelier.com

Beauty: Paper Dolls Wedding Hair & Makeup, www.mycharlestonweddinghair.com