EMILY FOLLOWILL PHOTOGRAPHY
FARMERS MARKET FLOWERS
A garden-inspired tablescape by designer and author James Farmer
The ingredients for a memorable meal are undeniably what ’ s on the plate and those sharing the table — however , the plate itself and how the table is set speak to the intentions of the occasion . As much as an artist composes a still life , dinner party hosts and restaurateurs carefully consider the contributions of natural light , fixtures , furnishings and fittings in the space when choosing flatware , dishes , glasses , linens and decor . A beautiful table should speak to all the senses . To the touch , find elegance from high thread count linens or the warmth of a rough-hewn wood residential-style dining table . To the eye , the look should be captivating and inviting , setting the tone for what is yet to come . The sound of perfectly paired flatware against china or ceramic is a prelude , in perfect harmony with the mouthwatering scents of the food that ’ s about to be served .
While what comes out of the kitchen always drives the dining experience , the tablescape is the true amuse-bouche of the meal .
HOW THE PROS DO IT The appreciation for well-designed tablescapes has gained traction as diners become more gourmet savvy . “ People notice the details and want to know more about the plate itself , in addition to what ’ s being served on it ,” says Morgan Jones-Greenberg , who owns Table One , a boutique business in Atlanta specializing in tabletop decor . China , glass and silverware are her mediums for creativity . Working with chefs and restaurant owners , her team adds on silverware — or gold flatware , as is popular now — glassware , plates , table lighting , coffee service pieces and accessories like salt and pepper shakers . Some are formal , some playful . Each has meaning and intention , layered with practicality .
Flower farmer Claire Smith , owner of Out of the Weeds on Johns Island , South Carolina , has a deep connection with all things green . The fruits of her 14-acre sustainable farm are available at local farmers markets .
Farmers markets can be the perfect place to pick up fresh blooms for your tablescape . This spring , Smith will be harvesting armloads of vibrant cosmos , which are perfect for centerpieces and in casual vases dotting the home . For this season ’ s bouquets , she is also excited about foxgloves , snap dragons , delphiniums and flowering herbs . “ When creating arrangements , go into the garden and woods ,” she advises . “ Look for veggie flowers and forage . Trees are budding out — use branches of redbud and snag sticks . You may live where forsythia is blooming — grab your pruning shears and bring it indoors , along with viburnum and dogwood .”
For an arrangement , wisteria vines and jasmine make beautiful textured filler . For a centerpiece , use three or four tall statement flowers , like coneflowers , and don ’ t underestimate the power of the fillers to help tell the story . Use what ’ s in bloom , including grasses .
The love of flowers was passed down to Smith from her grandmother and mother — a passion she enjoys sharing with others . As flowers grace your next tablescape , you can also share that love with your friends and family .
44 SEA ISLAND LIFE | SPRING / SUMMER 2023