If your Mom isn’t the breakfast-in-bed type, treat her to a family dinner complete with a lovely table setting. Special thanks to my friend Pam for loaning us her dining room for the day.

Pink may be for girls, but it gets an updated look when paired with black accessories. A square plaid shawl ($2.99) doubles as a table cloth. I like the contrast of black chargers with the vintage pink dinner plates.

The Blue Ridge dishes with a black crackle paint design from the 1960s were a bargain at 99¢ each.

The most successful table settings have an element to the unexpected. The black iron trivets don’t really serve any particular purpose when placed on the plate; they just add a touch of fun. They become little gifts or party favors for your guests.

The hand painted stemware is very feminine. The colorful flowers are so cheerful. These were also 99¢ each. (I will show you how to paint on glass in a future article!)

Black napkins can be tucked into the glass. Nothing fussy; try for a casual, floppy look.

Or pleat them like a fan and use the trivet to anchor them across the plate.

The dominos are just for fun. Scattered around the table, they become confetti. You can also use them as place cards and make a game out of it. If Mom’s birthday it June 6, give her the one with double sixes. Get creative.

Treat Mom to a relaxing dinner. Taking the time to set a fabulous table is half the gift!

Email me at askmerri@goodwillsew.com or post a comment on our Facebook page.

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