While your great-grandmother’s heirloom china might be best left for special occasions, that doesn’t mean that weeknight dinners can’t have a bit of pizzazz. We’ve asked a few of our favorite entertaining experts to share their favorite tabletop pieces for taking everyday meals to the next level. Whether it’s a classic white plate with a delicately decorative twist or glassware in sparkling jewel tones, each of these picks is guaranteed to elevate even the most casual kitchen-counter lunch.
Aerin Lauder
“The tablescapes I love most include vintage pieces that have become family heirlooms, alongside newer pieces from the AERIN brand and other brands I have discovered. One of my favorite pieces is the AERIN Paulette plate in white. This dinnerware collection now comes in a variety of colorways, but I find myself using the white time and time again. The Paulette is so versatile with its effortlessly elegant yet timeless look, enhanced with intricate cutout detail along the edge.” – Aerin Lauder, founder of AERIN
Paulette Dinner Plate in Cream, $150, aerin.com
Annabelle Moehlmann
“Our signature hand-blown tumblers are a forever favorite. I particularly love this peacock hue—it feels unique and somehow looks beautiful with just about any color. They are little jewels on the table, and are lovely for almost any drink, from cocktails to water or iced coffee in the mornings!” – Annabelle Moehlmann, FREDERIC contributing editor and founder of Land of Belle and Land of Bébé
Peacock Twist Tumbler with White Rim, $65, landofbelle.com
Benjamin Reynaert
“Why not have fun with color when it comes to flatware? It’s not always an easy category to mix and match—there are so many pieces! I’ve found that designer Matilda Goad’s cutlery takes out the guesswork. She has curated sets of 12 in lush palettes, either warm or cool so you can create a layered and colorful table with confidence.” – Benjamin Reynaert, creative director at Interior Define and contributing editor at Domino
12-Piece Cutlery Set in Blues, $128, us.matildagoad.com
Ajiri Aki
“Linens are an easy way to elevate everyday moments at the table, especially when you have various solid colors on hand to pull out and play with. They add a simple pop of color to a meal solo or with family and friends. We have 13 different colors at Madame de la Maison and right now I have been gravitating towards the fresh, soft Thyme color.” – Ajiri Aki, founder of Madame de la Maison
Thyme Linen Napkins (Set of 4), $51, madamedelamaison.com
Sarah Pecaut & Amy Burstyn Fritz
“I love our linen embroidered placemats because they feel like they belong in a modern art museum. With their free form shapes and primary palette, they add an instant splash of color to the table and make a playful base for your plates or the perfect centerpiece to rest your vase and candles on in between meals.” – Sarah Pecaut, co-founder of Misette
Misette for Moda Domus Linen Embroidered Placemats (Set of 2), $110, modaoperandi.com
“Our hand-painted candles are the perfect artful centerpiece for any table and a great talking point–not to mention they set the perfect ambiance! They also make a perfect and unique gift for any occasion.” — Amy Burstyn Fritz, co-founder of Misette
Line Drawing Hand-Painted Twist Candles (Set of 2), $65, misette.com
Devon Liedtke
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Fernanda Varela -
“I often prepare meals for my family on one large platter and bring it to the table. The speckled white from Fable is a must. I have so many Fable items on my wish list!”– Devon Liedtke, interior designer and stylist
The Oval Serving Platter by Fable, $55, us.fable.com
