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Spring is just around the corner, and that calls for bright florals, fresh fruit, and endless hours of entertaining. We caught up with Emily Starr Alfano, creative director and designer of mStarr Design, to get the scoop on all things party-planning. Here, Alfano touches on the spring tablescape trends she’s loving and the key to setting the perfect table. See for yourself!

When it comes to planning a party, a mood board is always a good idea!

Wispy greens and delicate florals are a staple of the season. A relatively reserved color scheme is perfectly acceptable, especially when dealing with an eclectic variety of flowers.  

What do you love most about what you do?

Being my own boss! It’s certainly not always easy and at times, requires diligence to be accountable, but I’m very lucky. In a creative industry, each day is different and no one project is the same. There is no limit to what I’m able to take on!

What are the basics of setting a table with entertaining in mind?

Accessibility​​​ and functional beauty is key. Allow room for platters or other communal pieces on the table, and think of how they’ll look within the overall tablescape. Keep flowers and greenery away from candles – no one wants to be reaching over a flame to snag something from the other side of the table. In a similar manner, consider the guests’ line of sight. There’s nothing more unpleasant than a giant centerpiece that hinders conversation at the table.  

What can make or break a table’s decor?

Overthinking it! When it comes to the decor, you can probably scrounge up all you’ll need from your own stash at home. We’ve used sheets and curtains as tablecloths and placemats torn from large pieces of silk.

Don’t fuss up your table with too much stuff. That doesn’t mean that your decor scheme needs to be “simple” per se, but having too many items can make the scheme feel cluttered.

Low maintenance florals with high impact!

What are the trends you foresee for spring?

I’m loving the idea of mixing patterns and textures to add depth to a table’s design. Spring is all about being light, breezy, and green – think linens in delicate tones. And while greens aren’t necessarily a groundbreaking trend, I foresee more of it being used within a tablescape. As much as I love a lush table garland, this season I’m more in favor of the thin and whimsical variety, florals on place settings (wrapped around flatware or napkins), and even a green accent on the chandelier!

The best part of this trend is that one doesn’t necessarily have to spend a fortune on the greens. Go outside and forage for your decor!

Mix and match metallics for an instant refresh. Brass and bronze are at the top of our list.

What’s the color scheme you’re currently craving?

Dusty rose and emerald or a dusty lilac and weathered blue. I’m all about the “dusty” right now.

Floral design by True Vine Studio 

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​Photography by Lindsay Hite Photography​