Create a Modern Fiesta Tablescape in 3 Simple Steps

For this year’s fiesta tablescape, I was inspired by the bold coloring found in this table runner. I loved bringing unique floral motifs into the design through our selection of tableware, and had fun creating a living tablescape as well as a fresh citrus cocktail for the event. Follow our 3 simple steps below to create your own modern fiesta tablescape!

1. Find your Design Inspiration

The jumping off point for this year’s fiesta tablescape was this colorful striped table runner I stumbled upon. I love the simple, yet bold colors and how it nods, but it not overly literal, to a Mexican motif. I pulled colors from this striped table runner when selecting plates, chargers and glassware.

2. Create a Layered Placesetting

You can add dimension to your tablescape by layering colors and textures with your chosen tabletop items. Since we used our floral fiesta paper plates in the design, we added a simple painted 10” charger underneath the dinner plate for a pop of color and added textural element. While we often stack dessert and dinner plates, to showcase the floral motif, we set the floral fiesta dessert plate to the upper left side of the fiesta dinner plate for this design concept. You can add dimension to a placesetting through napkin choices, placecards, menu cards, chargers and plate choices. For the best visual result, layer 3-4 of these elements.

3. Create a Living Centerpiece

Succulents are SO popular right now, and I don’t see that trend slowing in the near future. They make perfect centerpiece options, offering vivid green coloring to any tablescape. Plus, they can be added to a porch display or replanted after the event, allowing them to serve double duty. We selected a variety of succulent heights and shades of green, plus added 2 aloe plants for visual interest. The sky is the limit for choosing your centerpiece variety!

For the terra cotta pots used in this centerpiece arrangement, I applied a simple DIY whitewash to tone down the natural terra cotta coloring. With so many colors found in the table runner and paper plates, the whitewash effect would offer a visual softening to our potted plants. Find out how to whitewash your own terra cotta pots with our short video, and step by step tutorial using Testors Craft acrylic paints.

Shop our fiesta collection for more design options and inspiration.