6 Design Tips to Mix & Match Event China Like a Pro

How to Mix and Match Your Table Settings

Get the buzz and the party started by breaking away from a traditional dinnerware set-up. Here’s how to do it with style.

1. Consider your setting
An elegant ballroom setting requires a formal table with chargers, linens, and a full set of flatware; but at a picnic table, you’ll have just a handful of dishes and maybe some rattan placemats. Knowing how many elements you’ll work with is an important first step.

2. Use color as a through-line
Combining different plates that are all the same color is an easy and foolproof way to go. The color can vary from light to dark, or you can combine elements that are all the same shade. For example:

• A mix of china in different pastels
• Cobalt grey china atop a silver charger
• Gold-rimmed dishware with pineapple-patterned napkins
• Solid-color plates (or color-rimmed plates) ranging from lavender to eggplant

3. Keep like with like when mixing patterns
When mixing patterns, choose a theme. You can pair leopard-spotted plates with zebra print napkins, but maybe stay away from the combination of polka dots and cheetah.

Combining different china patterns can be fun, but it must look purposeful. For example, use a mix of china patterns that:

• Feature the same color scheme (blue on white)
• Use the same metallic (gold accents), or
• Include the same graphic element (roses, seashells, etc.)

4. Tell a story with layers
Create a tablescape that complements your event goals. If you’re planning a company dinner, use plates in your brand’s colors. At a wedding, use a combination of floral china with metallic chargers for a table that is equal parts romantic and glamorous.

Test the arrangement prior to your event (our consultants are happy to set up a sample table). If the table setting looks too busy, use solid-color plates to separate bold or patterned pieces. Simple elements can help break up ideas while tying your look together.

5. Play with shapes
If you’re uncomfortable mixing patterns, using plates with different silhouettes can bring an unexpected element to your table. Stack plates that are the same color, but different shapes (square, oval, scalloped, rippled, rimmed or coupe) to add even more visual interest to your place settings.

6. Focus on only one piece
If you have fewer pieces to work with, choose just one element and make it interesting. You could mix and match metals in your flatware, or narrow it down to gold dessert forks and spoons. Another fun option is to pair traditional, white china with colored glassware. 

Event China and Flatware Rentals from Marquee

Simplify event planning by choosing a one-stop shop for all your rental needs. Our massive inventory includes china, flatware, linens, and table accessories for any event style or size, and our helpful local experts will ensure all your elements work well together.

Our goal is to bring your event vision to life by helping you find the right china, tableware, and flatware for your event size and budget. Contact our friendly staff in Chicago, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Austin, Dallas, or San Antonio for a complimentary consultation.