Photography by Hudi Greenberger

One January day while I was shopping in Hobby Lobby, I noticed these beautiful floral plates and delicate lace placemats. The combination brought to mind spring and, of course, Shavuos. Although the Shavuos photo shoot wasn’t scheduled until April, I decided to buy the plates and placemats anyway.

Little did I know that shopping spree would be among my last for a while, as stores closed when the virus took hold. I’m grateful to be setting the table for my family and hope that you’ll enjoy doing the same. And I’m learning a lesson of Hashem’s timing... bashert.

EMBRACING INPERFECTION

I would describe the style of this table as shabby chic. Many people are drawn to this style because it not only embraces imperfection, but it actually celebrates imperfections. The good news is this style is accessible for everyone, even those who think decorating and tablescaping just “isn’t their thing.” It’s a style that’s very apropos in these times, when resources may be limited or hard to find.

SECRET GARDEN

Hydrangeas were my first choice of flower for this Shavuos tablescape in quarantine. They’re cost effective, they come in many varieties and colors, they play nicely with other flowers, and they’re the quintessential spring flower. Since each flower head is practically a bouquet, they stand alone in a vase beautifully and fill out arrangements quickly. Roses were a sure choice as well. Their soft pastel shades offer a timeless feel, setting off the pink and blue hydrangeas to make this table truly breathtaking, evoking the feeling of a secret garden.

AN ADDED TOUCH

These mini fruit tarts on mini stands were the perfect way to add more softness to the table (and they taste delicious too!).

COUNTRY VIBE

Airy fabrics, rustic elements, pastel palettes, and lush blooms are all elements that evoke spring. This table is a charming mixture of modern design and vintage flair that’s perfect for those who enjoy a cozy country vibe.

POMPOM FUN

The pompom-edged napkins add a pop of fun to this Shavuos table, complementing the table’s casual-chic vibe.

CREATING BEAUTY

Even setting the dining table can be a form of creativity. More than that, it’s an opportunity to express your own sense of style. No one else is exactly like you. No one else has the exact same style you have. Setting a lavish table can sometimes feel stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Once you know all the rules, feel free to break them — combine different patterns, textures, prints, and even styles. In fact, the latest trend in table setting is pairing casual with formal, old with new pieces to create a unique look. You can combine antique or vintage with some of your newer, more modern pieces. But most of all, make your table feel warm and inviting and create beautiful memories around it.

DELICATE VINTAGE

To create this lush Shavuos table, I rounded up some items I had in the house, including this blue vintage tablecloth. The blue and pink tinted vases are the perfect base for the coordinating colored flowers. I kept the color palette to soft pastels, with lace in the placemats to add a delicate feel. I love the sweetness and charm of these vintage floral plates.

MIXING PATTERNS

When it comes to mixing patterns on a tablescape, you can’t go wrong. I love the mismatched dinner plates. The floral tones have just the right amount of variety to keep it lively, while the muted pink plates complement the soft tones of the rest of the table.

THE LOOK FOR LESS

Set your Shavuos table and don’t take out the china! Loosen up the formality of needing to use dishes and use a mix of color-coordinating disposable tableware. I love how the white and silver flatware coordinate with the chic table concept. If you noticed, I also removed all of the smaller vases here, and the table still looks magnificent.

CREDITS

Tablecloth and iridescent colored glasses available at HomeGoods
Floral plates, lace placemats, mini cake stands, and colored vases available at Hobby Lobby
Pompom napkins available at Target
White flatware available at Amazing Savings

(Originally featured in Family Table, Issue 692)