It’s the latest trend in home decor that evokes a cozy and welcoming ambience with some vintage pieces, shades of blue and neutral elements but with a sophisticated and modern touch that only a grandmother can provide. It’s the Coastal Grandmother look and you may already be doing this in your own home! Don’t worry, however, if you want to jump on the train – you don’t need to live by the ocean to create a table like this. Here’s how I did it!
- Start with a soft, linen tablecloth in a neutral hue. I chose this white stonewashed linen tablecloth because it isn’t stiff like a traditional, classic table linen. It has a very relaxed, slightly-wrinkled and causal feel to it. A light blue or flax-colored one would be amazing too.
- Ocean-inspired lumbar pillows in a light print add a touch of cozy to the end chairs.
- Now, bring in some natural elements with wicker, rattan or seagrass. A placemat or charger is a great way to do this. Mine are rattan-looped chargers – I love how you can see the tablecloth underneath too!
- Dinnerware should be understated – a simple detail like these blue border plates or even something with a scalloped edge give just enough detail to make it interesting. Bamboo flatware gives another element to the place setting. Another bonus – my source for the plates and napkins is giving my followers a 10% discount – use the code TOHOST10.
- Napkins. Oh how I love my napkins. Only fabric will do – paper just doesn’t cut it here – as a Coastal Grandmother goes the extra mile and likes to use her cloth napkins for her guests. I love these subtle blue floral print napkins – a little bit of pattern goes a long way.
- Of course, we need to bring in some vintage pieces, and that’s where these old monogrammed silver napkin ring come into play. I found them online at an antiques store. They each have a different monogram on them, which adds to the charm! If you want to start your own colleciton to be passed down, I’d suggest these classic sterling silver napkin rings – pricey, but an heirloom for sure!
- Every Coastal Grandmother surely has their own flower garden, so naturally, she’ll clip some to make a bouquet for her centerpiece. No garden? No problem! Even if they’re store-bought, the addition of fresh flowers is crucial to this trend. I dropped about 2 dozen roses into an aged pewter pitcher for extra grandma points. A few smaller vases with the same flower for a monochromatic palette completes the centerpiece.
- Lighting can make or break a table setting and a Coastal Grandmother knows that after years of entertaining. Vintage glass candlesticks in varying heights with taper candles lend a romantic and warm ambiance to any setting and after all, everyone looks good under the glow of candlelight!
- Lastly, glassware. Keep it sophisticated with clear glass goblets in an interesting pattern – these have a diamond texture for some added interest.
Happy Entertaining!