Charming DIY Garland

All it takes to make a charming strand of garland is a collection of vintage fabric scraps or mismatched cloth napkins. Drape the garland across a fence at an outdoor affair or from ceiling beams when hosting an event indoors.

Photo: Once Wed

Sprigs of Herbs

Looking to dress up a simple set of cloth napkins? Decorate cloth napkins with strips of linen, several sprigs of fresh herbs, such as aromatic lavender, and a snip of twine for a bit of rustic flair. 

Photo: Project Wedding

Bandana Table Setting

The next time you're cleaning out closets and dresser drawers be sure to hold onto vintage scarves and gently worn bandanas. Brightly colored bandanas are a smart way to add bursts of color to a tabletop. Spread the washed and ironed bandanas down the center of your table to serve as a fun and colorful table runner. For kid-friendly favors consider wrapping small candies or toys in the jewel-toned bandanas. Because of their basic square shape, reused bandanas can also be used as festive cloth napkins.
Photo: Bridesmaid

Vintage Hankies

Touching vows. A memorable dance. The perfect speech. Many events lend to a trail of happy tears. Help your guests dry their eyes with vintage hankies. Organize small baskets or boxes of the hankies within easy reach to help your guests dry their eyes whenever needed (in the picture below, a small note reads “keep your eyes dry & your heart warm [please take one]”).

Photo: Once Wed

Making a Comeback: Cloth Napkins

Growing up, cloth napkins were always reserved for special occasions in my home. However, today, as more consumers are making an effort to reduce their daily waste, cloth napkins are making a pretty noticeable comeback. When shopping for décor for your next event, opt out of paper napkins and instead look for cloth napkins, tablecloths and table runners that are made from organic cotton and eco-friendly, low-impact dyes.

Photos: Plover Organics & Bambeco & Etsy

Fair Trade Table Linens

Photo: The Africa House

Recently, I’ve been on the hunt for an interesting table runner. I have a beautiful, round white kitchen table, which I originally loved for its simplicity; however, lately, I’ve been somewhat bored by its, well, bareness. Theafricahouse.com offers beautiful tablecloths, table runners and napkins that are perfect for the everyday or for entertaining. But the beautiful designs and reasonable prices are not the best part: all products featured on the website are created under fair trade conditions. When you log on, in addition to checking out the many artful textiles, be sure to view the leather-beaded napkin rings, adorably adorned with a beaded heart design – the perfect compliment for any Valentine’s Day table setting.