That’s right. You only need three things for your dining room centerpiece to have people convinced you just might have your sh*t together. Easy. Simple. Don’t overcomplicate it.

A Grounding Element

You need a cute tray or serving board that will serve as the base of your tablescape. It will elevate your vase of flowers both literally (in height) and figuratively (in aesthetic). The tray will ground your centerpiece and give the appearance of one cohesive unit, rather than a few items just thrown haphazardly in the center of your table.

I think it’s very important to note that your tray or serving board should mirror the size and shape of your dining table. I have a circular dining table, so I opted for a circular centerpiece. If you have a long rectangular table, you should choose a long rectangular tray that is proportionate to the size of your table. This will ensure that your tablescape looks cohesive and your type A guests won’t have an aneurysm 😉

I sourced my exact serving board from Home Goods, but you can find a similar white marble lazy Susan at World Market for under $30.

A B-e-a-utiful Vase of Greenery

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that a vase of fresh flowers makes for a great dining room centerpiece. These bad boys are peony tulips from Trader Joe’s. How lucky am I that my roommate buys fresh flowers for the house every single week?

If fresh flowers every week aren’t your speed, consider investing in a faux floral arrangement. Emily by Emily was founded by one of my favorite interior designers Emily Del Bello, and they have the most gorgeous selection of faux florals. I’m not usually a fan of faux greenery because it tends to look plastic and cheap, but Emily’s selection is made of high quality silk that looks like the real deal. My personal favorite is her cream anemone bundle that comes in an awesome ceramic loop vase.

A Candle to Set the Mood

Last but not least, you obviously need a candle. It sets the mood, it smells great, and it looks great. If you’re like me and your vice is to spend way too much disposable income on boujee candles, then I have just the recommendation for you. They’re frivolous and unnecessary, but they sure do add a little touch of luxury to your tablescape.

The candle pictured is the Diptyque Feu de Bois in the 1.23oz travel size. It is warm and smoky with the scent of fire wood. I personally think it’s just okay. My personal favorite candle is the Diptyque Narguilé. If you love a warm spicy scent, then you’ll love this one with its subtle touch of honey and tobacco leaves.

And there you have it. Your three-step plan to a foolproof tablescape. Tray, flowers, candle. I have another blog post with a four-step plan in which candlesticks make a special appearance. Check it out if you’re feeling spicy. Any questions or comments? Leave them below!

Leave a comment