A Spring Tablescape Inspired by a Horse Race
In parts of Virgina, spring heralds in both beautiful blooms and surefooted steeds.
With everything in bloom, spring is the ideal time to create a tablescape full of flowers. But for Matilda Reuter Engle, proprietor of Middleburg Hospitality and general manager at Glenstone Gardens and The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, the perfect flower-focused tablescape isn’t just about remembering to stop and smell the roses. It’s rather the opposite, as her spring tablescape offers a hint at the season’s swiftness and, in Virginia, the horses galloping in April’s exciting and face-paced Middleburg Spring Race.
Classic Style in the Spring Tablescape
From the traditional sporting artwork to the linens, Matilda made sure every detail was perfect for the “winner’s circle.”
“The velvety texture of the thick linen tablecloth mirrors the elegance of the racehorses,” she reveals. But the tablecloth’s color also signifies the transition from frosty winter to blooming spring, so her table expertly intertwines two themes: A focus on the region’s beautiful flora and the sporting lifestyle of the races.
To fit these themes together, Matilda added different layers to create a cohesive feel. “A rich blue velvet tablecloth symbolizes the fertile soil of spring, where new blossoms emerge,” she says. On top of this, she popped in a combination of white and blue heirloom chargers adorned with silver trim to harmonize with the tablecloth’s hue. “Encircling these chargers are gold silverware, adding a touch of mixed metals for visual interest.”
She then drew inspiration from the room’s dark accents, gold metals and artwork. All these elements she seamlessly integrated into the table’s design to provide a touch of history. At the same time, to signify spring and the emergence of new blooms, she combined soft warm colors in the florals.
Florals Win the Blue Ribbon
The flowers are highlighted in heirloom brass vessels that add a classic style and pay homage to the heritage and tradition of the races. But the showstopper is the cover of flowers sprawling across the mantel. “We began with artfully layering greenery as the lush, foundational base. We then interspersed florals, berries and assorted leaves, providing the arrangement with a rich and varied texture, while complementing the tablescape,” she says.
To further augment the flowers on the table, she added soft pink taper candles that cast a gentle glow across the delicate blooms. The resulting effect lends an even stronger traditional ambience to the setting. “Each place setting is adorned with etched crystal glasses, inviting a toast to the camaraderie-filled day ahead,” says Matilda.
Then it’s off to the races.
If you love this spring tablescape, then check out how to Create a Romantic Tablescape as well as A Sunflower Tablescape Says Sunshine & Farmhouse. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for your daily dose of farmhouse inspiration!
