Humble Winter Table

Featured on Cottage Hill Magazine here

About this time of year, I start to feel anxious for spring to get here. I find myself dreaming of warmer days and blooming flowers, yet even though the holidays are over, there is still much to be celebrated in winter - a new year, new life and new beginnings. When we are overtaken with an abundance of food, lights, gifts, and guests, I find it a welcome relief to allow for intimate and humble settings to take its place.

Depending on your local climate, foraging in winter may be difficult. With the wintery earth frozen and conventional botanical beauty wilted with the frost, try collecting evergreens, pinecones, twigs, and stones. These natural elements combined with simple styling, create a personal and minimalistic gathering.

Imagery Erin Kate Photo

Foraged Materials Used

- Small-Medium Evergreen Branch (we used pine)
- Wood Fragments or Stones (we used petrified wood)
- Pinecones

Other Materials Used

- Natural Dyed Linen
- Taper Holder and Candlesticks
- Heirloom ChinaWine Glasses

Step 1: Lay out your linen. We decided we liked the texture and movement of unpressed draped linen.

Step 2: Place your focal element. Here, our taper holder served as our focal element.

Step 3: Lay your branch. Before you place your branch, look at it. Ask yourself, which way does it fall naturally, how would it lay if found on the forest floor? Usually, the most natural position of the branch will be the best way to arrange it on your table. Note: Don’t be afraid to clip way any extra twigs or needles if impending sightlines or eating space.

Step 4: Add tidbits. These are any elements you’d like to bring in for color, texture, or movement. Here we used pinecones and petrified wood. Cluster small elements together and place larger pieces separately.

Step 5: Place settings. Keep things simple and top with a sprig of evergreen.

Step 6: Enjoy a warm meal with cherished family and friends.