It has been a whirlwind of a few weeks, folks. Between travelling to New York for the BHG Stylemakers event and Vancouver for BlogPodium, I'm feeling a little wiped out but at the same time excited about this old blog. I love how blog conferences have that ability to reignite your passion for blogging. It was great to see blogger friends and hear their success stories, listen to speakers, and learn new things I want to incorporate into this online space.

One person who left me completely inspired was Eddie Ross, BHG's East Coast design editor and producer. I've admired Eddie's taste and innate talent for creating the most stylish vignettes for years. With Canadian Thanksgiving coming up, I thought I'd share these table styling tips from Eddie that you can use for the holidays or to make your everyday entertaining a little more special.

1. Start with a colourful tablecloth

Colourful linens are an easy way to set the mood. From a vintage tablecloth to fabric remnants to an old handmade quilt, use linens to add vibrant colour and provide the foundation for your tablescape. If your fabric is short, layer it over a plain white tablecloth that reaches the floor for an elegant look.



2. Mix and match pieces

For a one-of-a-kind look, use treasured pieces that you've inherited alongside fabulous vintage finds and newer purchases. Here, Eddie mixes malachite dishes found on eBay with ornate bowls, and simple solid chargers. Cutlery needn't match either. Gold flatware and Mother of Pearl butter knives share a level of sophistication that work well together. Hot pink glasses from CB2 are paired with taller stemware of a similar shape. The look is eclectic but cohesive.


3. Simple changes can create a whole new look

Eddie showed us how to transform tables from formal and luxe to elegant and rustic with a simple switch of dish ware. Be aware of how to use colour and pattern to enliven a place setting or make it more serene. For example, the orange candlesticks bring a fall feel to the table while green candlesticks would recede and put the attention elsewhere.


4. Add something quirky

Eddie found this brass camel with cart on one of his antiquing trips. He had no idea what it was used for, but repurposed it to hold a salt cellar. Now it brings a touch of whimsy to the table setting and is a great conversation piece!

Kate and I with our BHG swag bags

Eddie has written a new book, Modern Mix, which I devoured. Its full of tips for hunting at flea markets and fairs and shows you how to put your finds together for a collected look. Unlike many coffee books, this one is as practical as it is pretty. It would make a great gift for any design lovers on your shopping list!


Photos by me and (c) Avi Gerver Photography