10 Tabletop Tips: Simple but Lovely Table Setting for Lunch
In this post: Looking for table decor ideas for a special luncheon? Here are 10 tips for creating a simple but lovely table setting for lunch.⇒
Do you have have friends over for lunch?
I’m not talking about a formal luncheon for a special event, but just a group of friends or family members who you’d like to catch up with.
While it may not require pulling out the wedding china, setting a pretty, casual table is a wonderful way to upgrade the gathering and welcome some added pleasure into your life.
You may be bringing sandwiches in from the local deli, but there’s no reason to eat out of the paper they were wrapped in. Styling a simple but lovely table setting is a practiced art and one that is well worth a tiny bit of extra effort.
For me, a well set table honors the people you are dining with and is one of the small graces that can elevate the tone of your day and your frame of mind. For this reason I incorporate lovely things on my table on a daily basis and I even try to do this when dining alone.
Much of this table setting comprises my everyday dishes because I often buy things I love, to use all the time. For a special lunch, they just need to be put together in a charming and creative way, which can then be punctuated by a few exceptional items.
Following are my 10 tips for arranging a lovely table setting for lunch.
10 Tips for a Lovely Table Setting for Lunch
1. It all starts with the dinner plates. A solid but textured dinner plate makes a great foundation upon which to build your more interesting elements. I often use the same dinner plates over and over, so I stay with neutral colors like white or cream. I tend to have a small “wardrobe” of the colors I use most often and a much larger selection of the accent salad plates that go on top.
A pretty texture in the same base color as the top plate will help frame it in a lovely way, and despite the fact that it’s solid, it should still be similar in concept to what will go on top. Here the pattern I used has an English countryside feel (in fact that’s the name of the pattern – see resource list below).
2. Pick a patterned salad plate to drive the theme of your entire table. This is where the table’s identity will often come from. The pairing of salad and dinner plate is where the magic can happen and it’s more budget friendly to buy only the salad plates when you find a new pattern that you love.
The ones used here are called Desserts Gourmand from Gien, a pattern that has been discontinued, but I’ve linked some below that are currently available on eBay. If they’re sold out, check back from time to time, or find something similar in the same spirit. I love that they incorporate French text for dessert recipes, but you can select something that works with your own theme.
3. A linen napkin can make all the difference in any table setting and it’s one of the things that sets the table apart from an ordinary day to day table. I love the barely-there blush pink color of these sweet napkins and the delicate ruffle adds an extra note of feminine whimsy.
If I were dining alone I might use paper napkins but I’d still select a pattern that is delightful to look at and comes in a paper of a nice quality.
4. Add sparkle with special napkin rings. A napkin ring alone can make an enormous difference to your tablescape, as evidenced by the ones here that add just the right note of bling. I love their mix of vintage patina and crystal shine, even though these rings are not very old.
The crystal and brass rings were originally found at Pottery Barn, and they are amongst my very favorites. Unfortunately, they don’t carry them anymore, but occasionally I’ve seen them on eBay or similar sources. I’ve linked other napkin ring options, below, that are equally as special and would have a similar impact on the table set for lunch.
5. Add another layer of interest with a subtle patterned mug. Perhaps it’s my background in the fashion industry, but I love to mix patterns when setting a table, as if I’m designing a coordinated collection. Instead of matchy-matchy coffee mugs, add subtle interest with slightly different patterns.
The mugs below work well with the salad plates, in color and spirit, utilizing a casual script and naif drawn imagery. Yet the patterns are not the same at all. Once again, the mug set is no longer available, but I’ve linked similar options below. The key point is to mix imagery that works well together and on my table the European countryside is the inspiration that ties them all together.
6. One of the most special elements you can add to any table is fresh flowers. No doubt you saw this one coming, as I’m crazy about fresh flowers. I do try to have them in my kitchen at all times, but there are also great versions of ‘real-touch’ faux flowers that can tide you over between buying fresh bouquets. These early summer peonies are my favorite flower, and I’m thrilled to see them in stores now all year long.
7. Include wine goblets. Even if you’re not having wine with your lunch, it’s always nice to add goblets which can be used for water or iced tea. This is one of the elements that really ups the ante of this table and takes it a step further out of the ordinary. If you use glasses that can be put in the dishwasher to make life easy, there’s really no reason you can’t do this every single day.
The amber crackle goblets add a subtle touch of color, picking up the warm tones from the salad plates.
8. Water glasses in a cut crystal pattern bring a nice glimmer to the tablescape. If you are having wine, add a separate water glass and once again mixing patterns adds another layer of interest. These glasses are weighty and are the glasses I drink from every single day.
9. Add a pretty platter of sweets. Of course the food you serve helps define the nature of your meal, but one thing that can elevate even the most casual of lunches is a lovely plate of sweets to end the afternoon.
(I could almost add an eleventh tip which would be sunlight streaming through a large window! If only we could control that… ;-))
10. Top everything off with a crystal chandelier. Ok, this is not quite part of the tabletop but crowning the setting, a crystal chandelier makes every event special. This vintage chandy was purchased at a local antique shop and brings just the right note of shimmer to this relaxed get together. Having this piece in my breakfast room makes every meal just a little bit nicer.
I talk often about adding small pleasures to life and enhancing the rituals you engage in daily. These tiny luxuries make a huge difference in the quality of your routines, which adds up to a more genteel lifestyle.
Why not create a lovely table setting for lunch this week? A little bit of effort goes a long way to making a casual luncheon with friends all the more special.
It sure beats eating out of plastic containers!
Table Setting for Lunch Resource List
To get the look, click on the items below for direct links to the products. Where actual items were no longer available, I’ve provided similar options. If an item is out of stock but may be restocked, I left it on the list.
(This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.)
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Beautiful table, not to fussy and VERY inviting!
Thanks so much, Ellie!! This one is very similar to my every day table with just a few little tweaks to upgrade it… 🙂
I love seeing and reading your posts. Looking at your beautiful table is such a nice way to start out the day. I love love love all your décor, your taste and how you display everything. It’s funny, I don’t know you, but feel like I do!! If I had to select just one favorite thing on this table, I don’t think I could. It just all fits beautifully. Thanks so much for sharing.
Kathy, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate a comment like that! Thank you so much!! It’s just really nice to know I am reaching like-minded people who my style resonates with… 🙂 Comments like this are what keep me going when I’m not sure I want to continue blogging… lol! Thanks for reading!
Gorgeous!!
Thanks, Jeanie!
Lory, Such a beautiful casual elegant table. Perfect for a friendly lunch with the girls. Sharing!
Thanks so much, Wendi! Thanks for stopping by… 🙂
I needed this step by step, very helpful! Beautiful table setting and I absolutely love your chandelier. It is stunning! It adds such elegance to your dining room. You make entertaining look so easy but I know like everything it must take planning and practice to do it so well. I would like to suggest a post. I would like to know where you keep your dining ware and accessories and how you organize them, I think this would help me alot.
Thanks so much, Kimberly, and I love your idea for a post! I’ve been asked before and I will definitely get on that. We are, in fact, in the process of converting a walk in pantry into a proper butler’s pantry, so that’s where much of my stuff will go, but given that we haven’t started it yet, I do have everything currently stored without it. Will definitely start thinking about writing about that… 🙂 Thanks for visiting!
What a lovely tablescape! It is just simply delightful. Of course with the nickname Pinky, you chose all the right colors for me. I use cloth napkins daily, using casual ones for everyday, and nicer ones for guests. I see no need to use wasteful paper napkins and add to the landfill. People often say to me “oh it’s too much work.” How hard is it to throw them in the laundry when you do a load?
Your chandelier is also so lovely. I have my mother’s old crystal chandelier that was damaged in a house fire. I plan on restoring it to it’s former glory
Setting a table is a lost art it seems. Sadly, my in-laws are not well versed in that sort of things. When ever we eat at any of my husband’s family gatherings, they actually serve right out of the pans sort of buffet style, they don’t use napkins, or paper if they do, they don’t set a table, and for some reason, unless they’re having steak, they don’t use knives!!!! Living in the country/mountains, is a different world for me. They are always so surprised when they eat here on a well set table.
Ah, Pinky! We are of the same mind… 🙂 Love your thoughts on cloth napkins. And why not? We throw our towels in the laundry, don’t we? I may have to follow your lead there.
I wrote a post on how I brought this chandy back to life. Found it in an antique shop. Fortunately it worked, but needed to be shined up and lots of the crystals needed to be wired back on. It was a labor of love. I also have an old chandy that was my grandmother’s. I had that one rewired and then dressed with teacups and vintage trinkets. You can find that post on the blog too.
Thanks for stopping by!!
Lory: Your “casual” table is so beautiful! I know a lot of people whose “formal” table doesn’t even come close to this! Your blog allows me to indulge pink to my heart’s content. I so enjoy your style! I love those English Countryside dishes. I’m working up to a justification in my head to go out and get them. I already own the Mikasa French Countryside, and my everyday dishes are Williams-Sonoma Traditions, whicth are also white. I mean, how many different sets of white dishes does a person “need?” Except . . . I really love those dishes!
Is this a new chandelier? This isn’t your formal Dining Room, right? I really do like it!
Thanks so much, Maria! Yes, it’s a ‘new-for-me’ chandelier, bought at an antique market. And no, it’s not my dining room. This is the breakfast room which is attached to the kitchen. As for how many white dishes… lol… well, for my dinner plates, I buy pretty much only white or cream, so they can function as an underpinning for the top plate which is where I do the pattern. So yes, there’s always room for more! You can buy just the dinner plates – not necessary to get the whole set. I’ll have to check out the French Countryside ones… 🙂 And as for pink, I just love it! Funny thing is, in my clothing, I’m generally head-to-toe black (or nearly black), but in my home, no dark colors at all! Thanks for visiting!!
Hi Lory:
I’m a new follower. I just discovered you! What gorgeous photography. And I love this table setting. I have a set of white embossed edged plates I use, too. My thinking is much like yours! I use white as my “anchor” and then add whatever color appropriate for the season, or occasion! And I love pink on the table, too! My house is all white/off white with splashes of color for accent. I love it! I can change up for whatever color scheme/season I want to highlight. I, too, seldom wear pastel or bright color; mostly black/grey or basic neutrals with maybe color in jewelry or scarf. Sounds like our tastes are similar!!
I adore European flair and sophistication; and am a confessed Anglophile!
Architectural and landscape (especially English gardens and countryside) photography are favorites of mine; and I love travel anywhere!
Glad I found you! I’ll be watching!!
Hi Jane! Welcome!! So nice to have you here – sounds like we are of very similar minds… 🙂 I always say I am both an Anglophile and a Francophile. My guess is we enjoy similar travel, as well. That’s certainly where a lot of my inspiration comes from. If you enjoy European travel, you can check out the travel section on the blog, too. Thanks for taking the time to say hi!
What a beautiful table! The peonies immediately drew me in. I love them so much. Despite being told they wouldn’t grow here, I have been trying. Poor things. The heat is just too much. I guess I will have to stick to TJ’s. I love the feminine feel of this table. Those napkins are such a pretty pink. What a chandelier! Wow! Your statement about honoring your guests with a pretty table is so true.
Oh, Barbara, how I wish I could grow peonies. They are by far my favorite flower, but I’m the worst gardener. Thanks so much for your kins words and for taking the time to comment!
Great tips…very practical and useful. Love this gorgeous table!
Thanks, Bev!
Lory, your table setting is lovely. I like using creamy white plates, too, as you can change them up with topper plates…I will sometimes just purchase salad or dessert plates to add the excitement. Peonies are my favorite flower and yours are gorgeous! I agree with you that putting the extra effort into your tablescape honors ones guests. It makes me feel good, too, knowing my guests feel special. I can tell from all your posts that you put that extra effort into everything you do and I’ve gotten such great ideas from them, so thank you so much for sharing.
Thank you so much, Bobbi! It’s so nice to hear that that comes across – putting in the extra effort. I mostly like to make my home pleasing to me, as well as comfortable for my guests, but it’s really nice when others appreciate the effort, too… 🙂 Sounds like we are of like minds!
Mikasa Italian Countryside dishes are pretty too ;^)
I agree with you that a pretty table setting honors the people who are sharing the feast…or breakfast….or lunch…
Now if I could just convince the hubster….The .”what are you dragging alllllllll that stuff out for??? No one will notice”….man.
I think Everyone notices…from the youngest to the oldest. My young grandgirls even like to get the good stuff out and set a pretty table. Hopefully that Idea will follow them as they grow up and become home keepers themselves.
Blessings to you,
J
Ha ha… funniest part of your hubby’s comment is that if *he* notices alllllllll that stuff, then why wouldn’t everyone else? 😉 I agree with you – even if people don’t notice the details, they definitely are affected by the overall impression of a lovely table. I will have to check out the Italian Countryside dishes. Thanks for the heads up, and for visiting!!
What a gorgeous tablescape – and your chandy is to DIE for beautiful!
You have a lovely home!
Thanks so much, Michele!
Great tips for creating a relaxed table. I often just buy the salad plates for my tablesettings. They are the perfect addition to add interest and color to a table without a large investment. I particularly love the napkins and peonies.
Thank you for sharing.
Janet
Thanks, Janet! Thanks for visiting… 🙂
Beautiful table, love the napkins and napkin rings. Always great to review tips for designing a beautiful table.
Thanks, Judy! Glad you stopped by… 🙂
Beautiful as always. Your photo’s are amazing.
Thanks. Valerie! That means a lot to me because I’m trying to upgrade the quality of my photos… 🙂
Don’t know if you will get this comment since this is an older post but I enjoyed this post very much. I agree the matchy matchy of the 1970’s isn’t as interesting as mix and match older pieces with the new and different textures. I was married in the era of 12 place settings including bread and butter plates, salad plates, cups and saucers all matching plus all the serving pieces.
Lovely table.
Thanks so much, Bonnie! Yes, I get notifications from all comments. Just takes me a while to respond since sometimes I get a bit overwhelmed, but I always read and appreciate them… 🙂 I actually do still try to buy 12 of everything, but I don’t always use them all at once! It’s fun to mix it up, but also sometimes fun to use the full matched set.
I love, love, love your blog. You have so many pretty things! I enjoy reading it daily with my tea and scone.
What a lovely comment to read! Thank you so so much!! It’s a pleasure to share my things with people who appreciate them… 🙂