I’ve never had a wedding reception, so my silverware, dinnerware, and glassware is a hodgepodge of charming vintage ware that really does not go together at all.  I figured this out the other day when I had some friends over for dinner – I could not set a very pretty table for more than  two people with what I had.  Help those you know like me who don’t have that treasure trove of wedding bounty – give them the gift of beautiful tableware!

First, lighting is key.  Like I told you before, no ugly overhead flourescents.  Try CAKE Candle Votive Sets or Vessel Candela Sets . 

Next, think flowers.  One vase I love is the Urbana Design teardrop vase – they look fantastic alone or in a group.

Now it’s time for cocktails.  To swill in swell style, your giftee needs the notNeutral Links Glasses .  I use these all the time and I love them.  They look even better when the hostess with the mostess carries them out on the Urbana Design Bent Ply Tray .  

To protect the table in the most stylish way possible, your giftee will need the dwelltable Sketch Runner .  If she’s more into bright color, try the Designer’s Eye Cracker Table Runner or the Modern Basics Crest Runner.  Perhaps your giftee prefers the easy clean up provided by placemats.  I recommend the notNeutral Birch Veneer Placemats.  These will need to be paired with simple modern china like Vessel Fusionware.

Now that you’ve given all you can give to get the dinner table set, an invitation to dinner during those dreary January months should follow. 

For the entire selection of modern table top items, click here .