Whether you're hosting a dinner party, styling a celebratory brunch, or just want to bring a little more beauty to everyday meals, place settings help the magic begin. They’re more than just letting your guests know where they are sitting… They’re an opportunity to tell a story, set a mood, and delight your guests from the moment they sit down.
In this post, we’re diving into creative, stylish, and unexpected ways to use different types of name place settings, from the classic to the quirky (yes, one involves a lemon), with plenty of inspiration for your next tablescape.
1. The Classic Charger & Napkin Layer
Let’s start with a timeless setup: a charger plate layered with a dinner plate, a salad plate, and a neatly folded linen napkin topped with a name card. This style never fails to look elegant and pulled together. For extra polish, add a sprig of rosemary or a single flower stem on top of the napkin. It looks great and adds a subtle scent.
Perfect for: Formal dinners, weddings, holiday tables
Pro tip: Use napkins in a bold colour to contrast with neutral plates and make your place settings pop.
2. Name Cards in Lemons (or any citrus really)
Add a fresh and playful twist by turning lemons into name card holders. Simply slice a small slit in the top of the lemon and slide in a card with your guest’s name. It’s charming, easy, and adds a bright pop of colour.
Perfect for: Garden parties, summer brunches, or Mediterranean-themed meals
Pro tip: Swap lemons for seasonal produce—mini pumpkins in fall, pomegranates in winter, or peaches in late summer.
3. Thematic Details That Double as Decor
Incorporate small, themed elements into your place setting that double as decor and favours. For example, a tiny bottle of olive oil or limoncello with a custom label, a sprig of lavender tied with twine, or a vintage key with a handwritten tag.
Perfect for: Weddings, destination dinners, or experiential dining
Pro tip: Choose items that reflect the menu, season, or occasion to create a cohesive story.