In our series, Building Blocks, we go back to the basics, exploring and unpacking the mainstays of the home and kitchen. With our fifth birthday coming up, we couldn't think of a better time to share our go-to tips for styling a celebratory table.
1. Consider playing with textures
One of our favorite ways to add texture to a table setting is through thoughtful dinnerware selection. Try mixing and matching glossy and matte-finished pieces with some textured or unglazed ceramics for variety and visual interest.
Our pick: The Place Setting
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2304/7781/t/106/assets/c1f683592115--2022-03-21-MaterialKitchen-PinchMorningBowl-Set2-0823-SELECT-R1-1-Large-0cf031.jpeg?v=1678304471)
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2304/7781/t/106/assets/c1f683592115--2022-06-23-Material-Kitchen-FS-Summer-0373-SELECT-RET-Large-76304e.jpeg?v=1678243340)
2. Candles are your friend
Think of them as ambiance-creators (that also smell great — aside from the food, of course). Scatter a few tealights for subtle accent lighting or opt for tapered candlesticks to add some elegance and height to the table.
3. Make room for flowers
A floral arrangement can serve as the perfect fresh and fragrant centerpiece while individual flowers and greenery tucked into your napkins make for an eye-catching accent to your place setting—eucalyptus, berry branches, and ranunculas are our go-tos.
Our pick: The Linen Napkins
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2304/7781/t/106/assets/c1f683592115--2022-10-04-MaterialKitchen-Shot15-FS-OB-LP-Full-Half-Glass-0692-Main-RET-ed0d16.jpg?v=1678243357)
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2304/7781/t/106/assets/c1f683592115--2022-10-04-MaterialKitchen-Shot07-Placemat-0511-RET-Large-1232c4.jpeg?v=1678242943)
4. Sprinkle in pops of color
Whether it's through your cutlery, glassware, dinnerware or all of the above, color sets the tone for the table. We like starting with a few neutral pieces (like our Linen Tablecloth in Sable or Cloud) and drawing inspiration from the season when choosing palettes and pops of color.
Our picks: The Table Knives and The Full Glass