This beautiful boho party is inspired by casual flower arrangements and an explosion of rich color, pattern and texture. Two contrasting finishes—wood and gold—add a bit of modernity as well as the unexpected. Have fun with your gathering spaces—in the boho home, a pile of plush pillows is just as good a seating area as any formal arrangement.
Layered Appeal
Don’t shy away from using multiple table linens in a variety of colors and patterns. Bohemian style exudes over-the-top hues and globally inspired prints. This setting is drenched in lively patterns and eye-catching colors in the best way possible—starting with a solid, light blue tablecloth. Layer it with an offset tablecloth that dons a colorful medallion pattern, then add an extra dose of vibrant style with a diamond-striped linen runner that picks up on the rainbow of hues within the tablecloths’ patterned stripes.
Layers also play a vital role in the place settings. Hand-carved wooden chargers act as placemats to hand-painted glass chargers topped with scalloped ivory bowls. The secret to the success of this mixed setting is the varied scale of pattern as well as the neutral color palette. The large design of the wooden placemat is offset by the detail-oriented pattern that graces the edge of the charger and the ivory bowl ties it all together with its beautiful simplicity.
Use scale and detail as inspiration when layering a setting, making sure to include dishes necessary for the meal being served that also offer visual interest.
Center Stage
Long tables offer prime real estate for expansive centerpieces. A lush arrangement of hydrangeas, succulents, anemones, eucalyptus, roses and more create a voluminous display that seems to explode from a modern pitcher.
With a focal point established, the centerpiece spreads down the length of the table with the help of an unexpected material. A wooden board stained deep brown adds an earthy stage that hosts smaller arrangements of blooms.
The juxtaposition of the materials creates a rustic, timeworn feel perfect for a bohemian-inspired celebration.
Glisten and Gleam
Keep it modern with dashes of sparkle and metallic finishes. From glistening pastel glasses to gold flatware, little accents take the table from simply pretty to dynamic and interesting.
Serve guests with a mixed collection of Depression glass. With its soft colors and charming style, it will add a touch of vintage flair, sure to make the table feel as though its décor has been casually collected over time.
Need a simple way to add a dose of gold? Trade vases for tin cans coated with gold spray paint. Their demure size is ideal for mini arrangements down the table’s center.
More DIY Ideas
Want to provide your guests a party favor with flavor? Try this recipe for Blackberry and Sage Jam, and use mini Mason jars for the perfect gift.
To keep your guests’ thirst quenched on a hot summer’s day, make this Sparkling Citrusy Summer Punch and serve it with vintage Bohemian flair.
Wow guests with this handmade fringe that’s easy to make and looks like an impressive work of art!
The full version of this article appeared on pages 102-111 of Summer 2015 issue of Bohemian Home with the title “Endless Summer.”
