Use What You Have: A Love Letter to the Unexpected Table Setting

Let’s be honest—Pinterest is great, but sometimes the most unforgettable tables are the ones that break a few rules.

At Everyday Normal, we’re big fans of using what you’ve got. The good plates, the chipped mugs, the lemons you forgot to turn into a tart—yes, even that weird ceramic duck your aunty gave you. Because sometimes, the most charming tables are the ones filled with stories, not perfection.

Mix It. Mismatch It. Make It Yours.

Who says every fork has to match? Or that your candlesticks can’t live next to a kitschy salt shaker shaped like a banana? A beautifully set table isn’t about rigid styling—it’s about building a vibe. So raid your cupboards, your garden, your fruit bowl. Anything goes.

 

Centrepieces? Think Outside the Vase.

A trailing branch. A haphazard bowl of citrus. A sculpture you moved off the shelf for the day. The best centrepieces often aren’t centrepieces at all—they’re just whatever made you smile. If it’s got texture, shape, or a little unexpected flair, it’s fair game.

Napkins Make It Nice

No matter how eclectic the setting, a linen napkin ties it all together. Pop it under your cutlery, fold it fancy, or let it flop like it doesn’t care. Suddenly, even a chaotic table feels like it meant to be that way.

 

Your Table, Your Rules

The best part? It’s yours. Set it how you like it. Whether you’re styling for friends, brunching solo, or just want to make leftovers feel fabulous, there’s magic in using what you already have.

Because beauty doesn’t come from buying more stuff. It comes from seeing what you’ve already got—in a whole new light.

 

So next time you’re tempted to buy another set of tableware, maybe just open that mystery drawer instead. You might be surprised what ends up on the table.