Table Decorating Ideas for a Bridal Shower Inspired by the French Countryside

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Thinking of a gorgeous and romantic place as the inspiration for your bridal shower? If the French countryside comes into mind, then you’re in luck as this beautiful setting provides spectacular table decorating ideas that will have your guests saying “ooh-la-la” when they arrive at the party. Here are a few examples to start planning the table decorations:

Use Provence-inspired Table Centerpieces

Think of a classic French country look that is indicative of the southern region of France called Provence. Try using accessories and materials that are natural and easy to find such as real fruits and vibrant flowers. Look for stone or terra cotta containers such as bowls or vases painted with a pretty motif such as olives, sunflowers, apples, lavender springs, or grapes. Alternatively, you can substitute large porcelain bowls, French wire baskets, or copper containers - decorative objects that provide you with a feeling of a quaint French cottage. And, be sure to craft your centerpieces using a combination of elements such as sunflowers, lavender sprigs, geraniums, and fruit.

Shopping Tip #1: When shopping around for these items, a great place to check out may be your local garden supply store or nursery that carries planters, baskets, and bowls.

Get French-inspired Dinnerware

As with your place settings, the design and colors of your tableware will carry the overall look and feel for your event’s ambiance, as it is much a part of your décor as it is your theme. Therefore, finding something symbolic is key to holding everything together. Select dinner plates and serving pieces with French-inspired symbols such as the Fleur de lis. For an elegant and whimsical look, you may also want to try designs inspired by a classic French country bistro, a romantic Parisian café, or a vintage Parisian fashion scene.

Shopping Tip #2: You may want to check out fine stores such as Sur La Table, which carries an assortment of dinnerware with themed designs.

Find Colorful Table Linens

When selecting the fabric for your table linens, interesting patterns such as toile and paisley are ideal for they exude the warmth and hospitality of the region. They can be found colors in bright colors of yellow, blue, lavender, and red. You can also choose to work with a combination of these colors such as pairing yellow and lavender, red with blue, or lavender and yellow. Be sure to select colors in coordinating shades and hues that will complement your tableware and centerpieces.

Shopping Tip #3: Stores such as Jo-Ann Fabrics carry a variety of textiles, so it is a good place to check out first when looking for fabric designs.

Create Fun Place Card Designs

A fun way to highlight your theme is to devise unique place card names of French origins. For example, you may want to use famous sayings and quotations with an English and French translation. These can be focused on topics such as marriage and weddings, or you may select general topics relevant to country. Another option is to use the names of famous French artists such as Monet, Renoir, or Matisse. You may also choose popular French places such as Brittany, Alsace, or Normandy. To educate your guests about France, add a brief description about each notable place or person as part of each place card.