How to Stage a Stunning Dinner Party with Ruffled Placemats
There’s nothing quite like hosting a dinner party—the laughter, the good food, and the joy of bringing people together around a beautifully set table. For me, the key to making any gathering feel special is all in the details. And one of my absolute must-haves for creating an elegant, inviting tablescape is ruffled placemats. They add a soft, sophisticated touch that makes the entire setup feel polished and thoughtfully curated.
If you’re planning a dinner party and want to make it truly unforgettable, here are my go-to tips for staging a stunning table, with ruffled placemats as the foundation.
1. Start with a Beautiful Foundation
If your table setting sets the tone for the entire evening, you’ll want to start with a strong base. I always begin with a set of ruffled placemats. Their delicate texture and soft edges instantly elevate the space, making each place setting feel intentionally styled, refined, and inviting. Whether you’re going for a romantic, rustic, or modern look, ruffled placemats blend seamlessly with any aesthetic. (If you're looking for your own placemats to set your table's tone, check out our variety of styles, including floral, classic blue belle, striped and more.)
2. Layer with Coordinating Linens
Once you have your ruffled placemats in place, it’s time to layer in complementary linens. A crisp tablecloth or a simple runner adds depth and contrast, while cloth napkins bring another touch of texture. I love using napkins in soft, neutral tones or seasonal hues to match the mood of the dinner party.
3. Choose Stylish Dinnerware
Your choice of dinnerware can make or break the look of your tablescape. I like to use classic white plates for a timeless feel, opt for hand-thrown ceramics to add character, or switch to seasonal dishes to match holiday or seasonal looks. The beauty of ruffled placemats is that they frame each plate beautifully, making even simple dinnerware stand out.
4. Incorporate Elegant Serve Ware
A well-styled dinner party isn’t just about the table setting—it’s also about how the food is presented. Serving dishes that complement your theme makes everything feel cohesive. Our oak cutting board is perfect for presenting cheeses, bread, or even a stunning appetizer spread. Pair it with a matching oak trivet to hold hot dishes in style.
5. Set the Mood with Lighting
The right lighting transforms a meal into an experience. I love using a mix of candles and soft overhead lighting to create a warm, inviting ambiance. A few well-placed taper candles or votives along the center of the table add just the right amount of glow without overwhelming the space.
6. Add a Statement Centerpiece
A simple but striking centerpiece ties everything together. Whether it’s fresh flowers in a scalloped wicker basket, seasonal greenery, or a collection of small bud vases, a well-chosen centerpiece creates an eye-catching focal point. Just be sure to keep it low enough that guests can easily see across the table.
7. Personalize Each Place Setting
A small, thoughtful touch at each seat makes guests feel truly special. Consider adding handwritten place cards, a sprig of fresh herbs on each plate, or a beautifully folded napkin resting atop your ruffled placemats. These little details show your guests that you put extra care into their experience.
8. Keep It Functional & Comfortable
While aesthetics are important, your guests’ comfort is key. Make sure there’s enough space between place settings for everyone to dine comfortably, and keep essential serving pieces within reach. If you’ll be moving dishes back and forth or need a tray to hold appetizers and drinks, a scalloped tray is an effective yet beautiful decorative piece that can help the evening flow effortlessly.
Hosting a dinner party should be just as enjoyable for you as it is for your guests. With ruffled placemats as the foundation of your tablescape and a few other thoughtful details put in place, you can create a dining experience that feels warm, elegant, and completely unforgettable. Happy decorating!