When putting together a coastal table, whether it’s for a late summer dinner or a beach themed Thanksgiving table, I think about how I want the centerpiece to come together based on the overall table setting so I can adjust my sizing to accommodate all the other items that will be part of the table.
Once I choose the elements I’ll need to create an effect that will elevate the tablescape and enhance the theme, I lay them out on the table to start visualizing the layers and decide if I need anything for the final look.
I often choose a vessel for the centerpiece to contain it a little, but because this is a classic coastal centerpiece, I went with layers of eucalyptus leaves as a base.
When it comes to using greenery or florals, I tend to choose artificial stems over fresh ones so I can use them over and over again in different designs, on the mantel or in a floral arrangement. I also lean toward picks when it comes to greenery so I can use them in whatever way I need to. I find much of my florals and greenery from Michael’s, but I’ve also found some beautiful items at Afloral.com, a great online resources for seasonal finds.
I then added a foundation “statement” piece to act as the anchor that I put all the other décor around. I used a dried grape wood branch that looks like it could have been found at the beach.
I found this branch on Amazon, but the look can be easily created using individual pieces of driftwood from a craft store.
I can’t think of a beach inspired tablescape or centerpiece without thinking about seashells! They add a lovely natural element and can also add texture and color, depending on what you select. Here I chose two white shell garlands that I draped over the branch.
From here, it’s all about adding some interesting décor that will add to the final look. These buoys are actually Christmas ornaments I found years ago (and still use on my coastal Christmas tree when I design one), they add a great lightness to the centerpiece.
The shell candles were a fun find, and I use the mercury votives in many table design, they always add some shine. I finished off the centerpiece with a few candles, sea glass votives and sea glass beads to add soft layers of color to the centerpiece and a sea fan to add some texture to the table.
Once all the pieces were in place, the finished look was exactly what I wanted – beachy vibes with color and texture!
