Setting the table ranks right up there as one of my favorite holiday activities. This year I wanted to create a comfortable and carefree vibe that felt fresh and modern yet had enough fall tones and autumnal motifs to make it season appropriate. Instead of the usual warm reds, oranges, tans and taupes, I was inspired to switch it up with plum purple and yellow. I also paired natural materials like wooden bowls and trays with shiny elements like polished silverware and mercury glass votives. 
Forget the fancy centerpiece and try a fresh floral garland instead. It feels festive and fun, and it will last throughout the holiday season. Nestle smaller floral arrangements, white pillar candles and wooden candle holders with white tapers around the garland. Scatter acorns to fill in the gaps. Incorporate seasonal fruit or vegetables when possible. This time of year I love persimmons. They add an outdoor vibe and a pop of color. 
Use a variety of sizes, textures and colors to decorate your table. Create layers. Use napkins, place cards, napkin rings, silverware or any little decorative elements. A name card topped with a few sprigs of wheat is a one minute DIY that makes it feel like a party. Mix and match. I used two types of glasses (goblets and vintage coupes), two different sets of cloth napkins, three types of dishware and a combination of crisp lines and curves to offset one another. Pay attention to every last detail. Consider whipping up a cocktail that fits the color scheme. For this one, I mixed equal parts ginger beer and pomegranate juice. Add a splash a whiskey if you’re feeling bold.
Every party needs a cheese plate. The perfect one has a lot of variety and textures. Here I used harvest fruits and vegetables, smoky almonds and broken up bits of Taza dark chocolate. Olives are contained in small bowls to keep things separated. Artisan bread is torn into pieces and there are several different cheese options (soft and hard). I used Frisian Aged Gouda, Delice de Bourgogne Brie and Cabot Clothbound Cheddar all served on a big wooden board. You could also add dried fruits, honey or fresh figs. The more pairings, the merrier! 
What ideas did you take away from this organic modern holiday table? Will you be recreating any of them in your home? I hope you are feeling inspired for the upcoming holiday months!
01 board | 02 knife set | 03 cheese | 04 glasses | 05 bowl | 06 napkin
photos, concept and styling by kate zitzer
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