Forget about plain table settings; decorate your table to encourage a festive 50th.
You're throwing a party for your 50th birthday party and naturally you want it to be fabulous. Among the details of party planning, don't forget to factor in all the necessities for a festive party table. Much of your event will revolve around the party table, so set the mood using a centerpiece and decorations that convey the atmosphere you want to foster. Use yellows, reds and blues for a cheerful and whimsical feel, or decorate in sedate maroon and gold for a more formal feel. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Decide on a theme or color scheme for your 50th birthday party. Buy items you have that fit the theme or use items you already have so that your table has a unified look.
2. Drape a tablecloth that accents your theme over the table. To jazz up a simple tablecloth, use a table runner also, or drape a second tablecloth diagonally across the table so there are at least two colors or patterns displayed. Put a place mat at each table setting. Put one of the felt cutouts on each place mat. Felt will stay in place on most fabrics for the duration of a party without needing to be glued.
3. Scatter number 50 confetti evenly across the tablecloth. Obtain 50 silk rose petals or 50 balloons of a color that coordinates with your theme. Scatter these across the table as well. If using balloons, do not blow them up. You could also use 50 cent pieces strewn across the table if you're willing to part with the change.
4. Build a centerpiece out of wooden numbers, which are available at craft stores. These should be at least six inches tall, but can be larger if you have a large table. Paint these numbers a color that coordinates with your tablecloth and embellish by gluing on lace or ribbon borders or fake gems if desired. Set the numbers in the center of the table and surround them with a circle of tea lights.
5. Roll cloth napkins of a coordinating color or pattern and tie them with ribbon that says "50th" or "Happy birthday" on it. Alternatively, fold the napkins into a shape or stand them up like little sails. Put the napkins on the plates you will be using. If you will be using dessert plates or salad bowls, stack these on each place mat.
6. Tie a ribbon around the base of the stemware. Use the ribbon with the number 50 on it to match the rolled napkins. Place the forks, spoons and knives necessary for the meal you will be serving, but unless it is a very formal dinner party, don't stress about which side of the plate to put the salad fork on; simply choose an arrangement you like and set each of the places the same way.
Tags: across table, 50th birthday, 50th birthday party, birthday party, color that, color that coordinates