Set a Beachy Table

If you're dreaming of one day owning your own beach cottage or at least decorating your home like one, then don't miss Sarah's chronicle of her fixer-upper seaside cottage. I was just perusing her blog and saw that she recently created a beachy, budget-friendly table setting in her dining room. Inspired by her post, I thought it would be fun to round up some beach-style items that will get you feeling like you're living by the sea in no time.

Color tip: Beachy rooms tend to feature natural colors, such as creams, light yellows, blues and grays.

Tableware
Since the dinnerware will be the most prominent color on your table, stick to cream or white. IKEA's DINERA or the modern dinnerware from CB2 are an inexpensive, easy add for crisp neutral dinnerware. The American Simplicity turquoise dinnerware from Target is a light enough color that it also acts as a neutral.

Glassware
Recycled green glass barware is reminiscent of sea glass, and it's eco-friendly. This modern 12-piece set from The Cellar is simple with just the right amount of curvature.

Linens
Create your own napkins and tablecloth with a thick/thin-striped fabric such as BERIT or if you're not that crafty, you can try these Coral Beach Stripes Table Linens. These sealife embroidered napkins are just understated enough to work. Use nautical rope to fasten napkins instead of a napkin ring. If you're looking for more of a white-sand beach kind of feel, check out these white pebble placemats and coasters.

Centerpiece and Accents
There are ways to make your table beachy without it seeming "themey" or cheesy. There's no need for lighthouse miniatures, netting or a ship-in-a-bottle. Place a large white candle in a glass bowl and surround it by sea glass or sand. You can also gather starfish or large sea shells and scatter a few on the table or place a number of them in a glass orb.