How to Throw a Seaside Inspired Table in a Pinch

Fall is chock full of cozy gatherings and al fresco dinner parties — how else would you celebrate sweater weather? And with all the fun seasonal activities calling your name, the last thing you want to be doing is grunt work for these little get-togethers. So inspired by the idea of stressing less and living more, we put together a porch table with nautical lanterns from 46 & Spruce to show just how simple this task can be. This home and garden store is overflowing with terrariums, vases and lanterns that can help you whip together a party setting in a pinch, so it’s no surprise we looked to them first!

The phrase “less is more” has never been more true, and you only need a few statement pieces to achieve this look. Scrolling through 46 & Spruce’s shop, we spotted these searchlight style lanterns with thick wicker handles, and it was love at first sight. They come in a range of different sizes and can be filled with flickering pillar candles to create a soft, romantic ambiance. And the best part is they can double as home decor after the party!

With this “lantern-runner” centerpiece as our base, we filled in the table with soft linen napkins in loose knots, dark + moody plates and oyster shell votives we whipped up over the stove. Overall this table took no time to put together, including this DIY Oyster Shell votives:

DIY Oyster Shell votives:

Remove the wick from your tea light, then place the wax back into the tin. Heat your stove to medium low heat, and melt the wax over a generous amount of oil. Pour the melted wax into an empty oyster shell, place the wick in the center and let sit until solid.

No matter what theme your party wears, don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild. At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong and it’s amazing to see how everyone uses the same pieces in a different way. Head on over to 46 & Spruce to get inspired and tell us how you plan to use these item. And bonus: If you sign up for their email list, you’ll receive free shipping on your first order!