My husband and I just got back from a trip to Botswana, South Africa, on safari. It was, without a doubt, the best trip we have ever taken and the beauty of the land and its inhabitants are my inspiration for today’s table scape.
I purchased the handmade natural weave runner in a local shop in Franschhoek, South Africa. It reflects the perfect color combination of an African sunset. I then select my brick color mats, which I seem to be using a great deal of lately, but they’re a good match.
For added drama, instead of one napkin, I use a black and pumpkin napkin combination bound by the beautiful crystal napkin rings I purchased in Cape Town. They are in the shape of safari animals. I selected two elephant, two rhinoceros, two giraffe and two hippopotamus ones. I’m delighted with my purchase, they’re so cute!
To add to the crystal on the napkin rings, I use crystal chargers and rustic glassware.
The centerpiece is a pottery vase made by my next door neighbor, Claudia, and given to us as a house warming present. I fill it with dried branches to mimic the dryness of the African bush.
Finally I flank the vase with two rustic pillar candles and use my rustic flatware.
I’m always on the look out for interesting table setting souvenirs on my travels because they are reminders of our adventures and also serve as great conversation pieces.
