Tablescapes + The Newlywed Cookbook at BHLDN

One of our favorite parts of the style and design process is designing the tablescape. Each is unique to the bride, her personality and style. And with so many key players - china, glassware, flatware, napkins, linens and stationary - the possibilities are endless! So we were thrilled when BHLDN asked us to share our tablescape secrets alongside the amazing food expert and author Sarah Copeland, as she launched her newest book, The Newlywed Cookbook, for a book signing and tablescape soiree! Let us just say that Sarah Copeland is so kind and gracious - there is no doubt she is making NYC a sweeter place! We really enjoyed getting to know her and want to wish her a huge congratulations for selling out her book at this event. (Go Sarah!) If you haven't already, get out and purchase The Newlywed Cookbook, a darling book full of yummy recipes every married couple needs to try.

Our role in this fabulous event was 'Tablescaping with Two Be Wed' likened to Build A Bear but better! Attending guests were given the choice amongst an array of china, glasses, flatware, napkins  and calligraphy place cards by Rachel Nieman, to mix and create their very own custom tablescapes with our help. It was a first for us and so much fun! We loved seeing how one piece could inspire each person so differently. A few tips and tricks to remember when putting together your own tablescape:

1) Find an inspiration. Determine the kind of meal you are designing for, i.e. breakfast, lunch, dinner and the formality of the event. Next, choose your inspiration - it could be a fun pattern, a colorful napkin, a favorite platter or glass, or the place card.

2) Don't be afraid to mix and match. Patterns, napkins, the newly registered china and the old china passed down from your grandmother. Even the random pieces that came with your husband from college.

3) Be creative with your place card. If you are going with an organic theme - use a sprig of an herb from your fridge, a piece of bark or fruit. Try and use items you already have in a new way or something unique hidden in your kitchen drawers. Another option is to simply wrap a belly band around a napkin.

3) Most of all, have FUN with it. Let loose and try something different. Experiment and explore. If you don't like what you've designed, then you have 365 days until next year to perfect your custom tablescape.

We put together some fantastic tablescapes that day and each different from the last! And it wouldn't be possible without our amazing team of vendors - Acute Catering and Events recreated some delish treats from The Newlywed Cookbook and Sociologie Wine dazzled us with some stylish concoctions. Tamara Menges Designs outdid herself on the organic floral centerpieces and the lovely Christa Elyce Photography is always a doll to work with! Thank you BHLDN for having us and for letting us use your accessories, and Rachel Nieman for the phenomenal job on the calligraphy place cards. Enjoy this photo recap by the lovely Christa Elyce!