Forget fancy objects, set a table full of memories

1. Nature as Art

You don’t need to buy ceramic figurines or objet d’art specifically for your table—you can find plenty of things in your backyard, garden, or while on a trek! Flowers, seeds, and seed pods can be placed in glass jars or little bowls to make beautiful, low-effort décor that lasts. Nimmy uses everything from rudraksh seeds, to mountain tamarind seeds and areca nuts to spruce up the table. And don’t overlook dried leaves. Nimmy has a set of dry mahogany leaves she collected almost a decade ago, which she arranges in a brass urli to create a gorgeous statement on her sideboard.

2. Add a Touch of Freshness with Flowers and Herbs

Flowers, both natural and artificial, and herbs, can add a touch of freshness amidst the still life of the other objects on your table. Jars and bowls full of seeds can be a little imposing, so flowers and fresh herbs breaks it up visually. Plus, herbs like tulsi have a wonderful aroma: clip them and place them in small glass vases or tumblers along the centre of your table.

3. Add Height and Level-up

One way to keep your table lively and enticing is to set your décor at different heights, no matter their size and shape. Placing candles on a stack of coasters or books, using a cutting board to arrange crystal, and placing pinecones and flowers on a cakestand can make the table look interesting and abundant.

4. Give Your Objects a Little Company

However large or small a décor piece may be, give it a little company. A standalone vase or ornament is never as interesting as a bunch of objects grouped together, each a little different, but tied together by a common theme. This brings a little excitement to the vignette you’ve created and the contrast in size and shape highlights each piece better.

5. Create a Collection of Memories

According to Nimmy, you don’t have to purchase something for the sake of it. All her table décor consists of objects which have been acquired, picked up from nature walks, and collected over the years and each piece evokes a special memory.

Remember that every object has a story attached to it, so surround your space and fill your table with the little things that bring back those happy memories!