Vintage Wine and Mulberry Hues: An Early Fall Table

The long hot hours of summer have finally become beautiful temperate days with cooler nights.  Trees are beginning to change color and this week we've had cloudy skies and showers for the first time in what feels like ages.  Fall is finally here and must be celebrated!

This September table design marks the passage between the two seasons, reflecting the remnants of summer while welcoming the beauty of fall with its rich but non-traditional color palette of wine and mulberry, accented by beige and sage green.  The combination of opulent dark hues and bright berry tones gives a subtle glow to the autumn dahlias.

To create a glistening design, select a few elements that are either metallic or cut glass to highlight the table and pick up the flicker of candlelight.  Silver mercury glass votives are placed randomly throughout to add sparkle, while dahlias float in crystal bowls for accent, mirroring the profusion of blooms in the centerpiece.

A fresh floral arrangement makes every occasion seem special.  I've added wine and burgundy blooms to the

Cafe au Lait Dahlia Arrangement

 I made earlier in the week.  The brighter colors connect the flowers to the table setting for an autumn evening dinner party!

Pedestal dishes can be used to add height and interest to the table.   Since I will be serving a fall fruit and vegetable salad as a first course, these vintage style dishes in a deep purple shade are perfect.  They give a bit of height and glamour to each place setting, coordinate with the wine glasses, and are the right size for a small salad.  The botanical square plates have the magical modern quality of looking fancy and formal while being dishwasher safe, which makes them practical for everyday use throughout the season!

Layering linens in a range of coordinating colors and a variety of textures will create a sumptuous looking table.  This develops dimension and a feeling of warmth.  A tablecloth and runner will define the space while layered placemats add formality to each setting.  Details like the filagree silver napkin rings and pewter bird salt and pepper shakers bring in old world charm.  Use whatever you may have in the same color family for a cohesive look.

Creating an embellished table is a good start for fall entertaining.   This way one has a styled table prepared for guests and family throughout the season.  Of course, changing it is the fun part.  Some dinners may use only the plates and a table runner with salt and pepper.  Others may have candles running down the center of the table instead of flowers.  The idea is to have everything thought out and accessible for mixing and matching.  Be creative and enjoy the process of designing an early fall table for your guests!