4 Tastemakers Share What Makes For The Perfect Table Setting

A few years ago, we were all subtly awakened to another aspect of food and dining: tablescaping. The art of setting the table and making it a space that makes everyone feel at home and welcome is important. And as a newly married couple, if you’re considering hosting your first-ever Diwali dinner together, then it is an important aspect to consider. And there are many ways to approach the process. Tablescaping, like any other art form, plays out best when one adds a generous sprinkle of personal style sensibilities. In fact, what a great way to let your loved ones see your personality, is it not? “A good rule of thumb is to keep things tonal when tablescaping; if you choose a colour, try to tie it into the napkins, crockery, candles and flowers,” Whitney Hawkings, founder and CEO of Flowerbx, a UK- based floristry brand, toldStylist.

As a way to continue to dig deeper and learn about table setting, we decided to speak to six experts to gain insight into the art. So, whether you’re entertaining as a couple or looking for presents for the newlyweds, get inspired by these expert-curated tablescapes which provide exquisite entertaining and gifting accoutrements.

Experts Share Insights On The Art Of Tablescaping

Eeshaan Kashyap food and beverage Curator

Manifest: What is a classic piece that is essential to a table setting?

Eeshaan Kashyap:  Long, tapered candles add an element of glamour to any table.

M : Which current florals are you using in a tablescape?

EK: I love breaking symmetry by using rocks, twigs and leaves. Also, bring the outdoors inside!

M: A table decorating tip to keep in mind when hosting guests?

EK: Make sure you set up a large ‘grazing’ table and that the bar is well stocked.

M:  Tell us about colour palette you are gravitating towards this wedding and festive season?

EK:  I would recommend opting for beige and copper as the primary colours for your setting. This combination is luxurious and impactful.

M:  What is the one gift you would give a bride-to-be?

EK: I’d send a pop and cheerful brunch set that will almost make her feel like she’s on a holiday.

Devika Narain Wedding Designer and Event Stylist

Manifest: What is a classic piece that is essential to a table setting?

Devika Narain:Crockery and cutlery are extremely important. Cutlery should be light, no-frills and easy to use.

M: What current florals are you using in a tablescape?

DN: Winter flowers have just begun coming in, from desi gulaab to mogra, among others.

M: A table decorating tip to keep in mind when hosting guests?

DN: First, think of your guests’ comfort. The second is drama, add an element that catches the eye.

M: Tell us about the colour palette you are gravitating towards this wedding and festive season?

DN: During the festive season, I gravitate towards either a classic mix of golden, cream and green; or I go for heavy, colourful settings.

M: What is the one gift you would give a bride-to-be?

DN: The packaging is as important as the gift. Use light, Japanese-style furoshiki wraps that can be reused to wrap your present, or just fill a tray with mogra flowers and add the gift.

Bani Nanda Chef and Founder, Miam Patisserie

Manifest: What is a classic piece that is essential to a table setting?

Bani Nanda: Ornate and statement tablecloths are winners. They define the surface, and bring the décor and silverware elements together.

M: What current florals are you using in a tablescape?

BN: There is this wild, yellow grass that’s in season. The vendors at the flower mandi call it ‘golden’. It’s my go-to this season!

M: A table decorating tip to keep in mind when hosting guests?

BN: If it’s a sit-down meal set-up, keep your flower arrangements short or minimal. Tall flower arrangements obstruct the view and decrease interactions when dining together.

M: What colour palette are you gravitating towards this wedding and festive season?

BN: I’m leaning towards earthy and natural tones like terracotta, wooden accents, off-white table linen and green chrysanthemums for winter.

M: What is the one gift you would give a bride-to-be?

BN: A cake cutting and serving set!

Kalyani Saha Chawla Entrepreneur and Founder, Rezon Luxury Silverware

Manifest: What is a classic piece that is essential to a table setting?

Kalyani Saha Chawla: A name card feels very special and accessories like napkin holders.

M: What current florals are you using in a tablescape?

KSC: Gypsys are available throughout the year. I spray paint them sometimes for an ombré look.

M: A table decorating tip to keep in mind when hosting guests?

KSC: Keep the floral arrangement low, and put a runner and loads of candles in between.

M: What colour palette are you gravitating towards this wedding and festive season?

KCS: I’m gravitating towards autumn colours like purple and magenta this season.

M: What is the one gift you would give a bride-to-be?

KCS: A great gift for a married couple would be a beautiful bedside water jug as everyone uses it. You

Photographs by TARUN BHATIAStyled by ANUPRIYA ROY