What was I thinking? A tabletop challenge in three parts.

Many, many years ago, I purchased all of these table linens...three runners and all of their coordinating gold trimmed napkins at Crate & Barrel.  As I recall, I had some grand plan to throw a very large dinner party, setting three fabulous tables, all a little different, with the linens tying everything together.  What was I thinking?

Fast forward 20 years or so.  I rediscovered these linens in a bin...never ever touched!  Although lovely, I look at these runners and napkins and realize that my taste has most definitely changed.  So what to do with these "too formal" linens that aren't really at all my style?  How about a challenge?  In three parts!

My goal is to use these linens as a starting point, setting three tables, using all the tricks up my sleeve and not stopping until I come up with three tablescapes to share on this site.  Here we go.

Part One...The Red Challenge!

I opted to begin with the red linens.  Thinking about the dishes and accessories in my stash, it seemed the logical...and easiest choice.  Red and gold...over the top...more is more.  Fun, not formal.  I started with the red and gold brocade table runner, of course.

Now, let the layering begin.  My super sparkly beaded placemats are old favorites from Pottery Barn.

Next, add some ruffly gold leaf (not really) charges from Crate & Barrel.  Keep going with my favorite plain white plates.

Top it all off with swirly cranberry and gold dessert plates.

Add some big red water goblets.  Looking better, but don't stop now.

Dress up the napkins with chunky gold napkin rings from Ten Thousand Villages.  This table needs some candlelight.

Round red candles sit atop gold columns.  A few red posies and some gold baubles finish the table nicely.  Fancy but fun...I think these red linens are finally looking rather fine!  That was fun.  Stay tuned for "What was I Thinking - Part Two, the Green Challenge!"