Easter Table

Easter is a time for wonderful food and family gatherings and a beautiful table adds to the drama of the occasion and sets the mood for a memorable feast. Interiors expert Emma Power shares some advice on how to achieve the perfect tablescape.

The Easter holiday symbolises hope with new beginnings, an official start to spring, the sun shines brighter for longer, dark dull shades turn to brighter pastels, the weather is warmer and the evenings lengthier. So throw open those windows, pick some daffodils and make your home ready for Easter lunch or dinner. With so little opportunity to celebrate or socialise now our Easter table is more special than ever. Whether you have a big one household family or are inviting your bubble companions over, we have some wonderful ideas for your table that will make you smile regardless of budget.

We all want to impress our guests with wonderful hosting skills and of course good food is a vital element for any celebration, if you are not blessed with Instagram worthy culinary skills or simply want the day off cooking, you can order your easter meal online. www.sallyann.ie prepares & delivers everything you need for a sumptuous feast and takes the hassle out of all the preparation of the day.

Once the food is sorted how you present your delicious efforts can elevate a guest experience to a whole new level and the perfect table setting is at the centre of this. Arranging a festive table is all about creativity with thoughtful spring colours & decorations, you don’t have to stick to baby bunnies or yellow chicks (although these are always a winner), you can go wild with bright pattern napkins, colourful china and seasonal flowers from your garden. Think bees or butterflies, tulips or snowdrops. In my opinion a more casual approach is always better, it makes people feel instantly at ease and allows you to inject a bit of personality. When planning your tablescape consider what Easter means to you, for me it means bright, fun, sunny, new growth, warmth, smiles and a breath of fresh air.

Start arranging your table with the centre piece, this can be anything you like from a small easter egg garland, spring flowers, candles, greenery, or an Easter wreath laid flat with candles or chocolate eggs in the centre.

If you are worried that your tableware just won’t cut it, you can rent beautiful themed place settings for the occasion but sometimes a mis match, eclectic vibe can be very effective. Coloured water glasses also add fun in your table. Don’t forget your linen and table runners, add place cards, table mats, menus and even a flower to each setting. Folding your napkins into bunny ears can be a fun but chic way to add to the festivities and not difficult, first, fold a napkin in half to make a triangle, then roll into a long strip and fold in half again. Secure with some twine or a napkin ring. Pop a painted or chocolate egg in the centre. If you have some younger guests, try personalising some hanging bunnies or better still, keep them occupied as they craft their own. (www.craftshapes.ie)

Remember decorating doesn’t have to be confined to inside, an exquisite Easter wreath hung on your front door creates instant curb for your neighbours, giving them a glimpse of what lies beyond.

You can make your own wreath with items you have at home, in the garden or are easily found in the supermarket. You can also buy one online, they range in price but an artificial wreath can be re used year after year. Florist, Joeanna Caffery has some beautiful ones (joeannacaffrey.ie). Make sure your centre piece is not too high so your guests don’t strain their necks when chatting.

Finally don’t stress or overthink things, your guests or family will be delighted with your efforts just try not to clutter your table so there is enough room to display the main event, the food. Then sit back pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy.

Happy Easter