Setting the stage for a great dinner party starts with setting the table. Or better yet, letting someone else set the table. Kelly Van Dehy, cofounder of The Wildflower Denver, is an expert in tablescaping, an art she believes can elevate any event. Her company offers rentals for everything from tables, chairs, and linens to champagne walls, dance floors, and lounge furniture, as well as custom tablescape designs that add intimate and artful flair. “Our tablescape design service creates personalized, cohesive looks that tie together everything from centerpieces to place settings, ensuring the decor matches the theme and vision of the event,” Van Dehy explains.
The process begins by nailing down key details: event flow, type of dining (buffet or plated), and overall vibe—is it formal, laid-back, or a mix of both? Once that foundation is set, Van Dehy draws inspiration from Pinterest, magazines, and past designs to create a mood board that captures the colors, textures, and patterns of the event. “Once all the groundwork is laid,” she says, “you can start the fun part: picking plates, linens, utensils, glasses, etc.”
For holiday tablescapes, Van Dehy says the key is balancing festivity with simplicity. “Start with a neutral base, then layer on some holiday colors,” she advises. “Include natural elements such as pine cones, sprigs of evergreen, simple garlands, or holly berries. And don’t be afraid to incorporate some textures or patterns through velvet napkins, metallic accents, and natural elements as decor.” She recommends low centerpieces—bud vases for flowers or short candles—that encourage conversation without obstructing views. Personalized touches, like handwritten place cards or festive favors at each seat, add warm, thoughtful elements that can make any dinner feel extra special.
