As we gear up for Fall 2023, there are a number of exciting catering party tabletop trends that are projected to have a major impact on how catering and corporate event tabletops are dressed. With that in mind, Total Food Service sought out the expertise of industry expert Brigitte Bates of Party Rental LTD to share her vision for the upcoming event season.
“Picture this: a perfect blend of creativity and balance that will impress even the most discerning palates,” Bates noted. “We can expect to see an infusion of vibrant colors combined with natural elements, creating a harmonious atmosphere at your events. Think platinum and golden inlaid plates within contemporary, matching styles of tableware on top of an English rose soft draping cloth. These colors will not only exude warmth but also give a fresh and modern twist to your tabletop decor. To make your table setting more inviting, incorporating seasonal fruits, such as pomegranates and figs, as decorative accents can add a touch of whimsiness. So, get ready to embrace the impeccable fusion of aesthetics and functionality this Fall 2023!”
“Normally when you hear the word ‘Autumn,’ you may have a vision of overflowing cornucopias, browning foliage, and pumpkin spice,” Bates added. “In working with our catering and corporate clientele in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, we have a complete selection of both those traditional offerings and “what’s next”. At our recent Fall Preview, our showrooms came to life with fresh new looks including crimson tablecloths with burnt orange plates and elegant, gold-finished candlesticks are a classic, sure to impress guests and leave feelings of warmth and love in the air.”
“Many of our catering and corporate customers preparing for their slate of Fall ’23 galas and special events have come looking for more ultra-modern styles,” Bates continued. “I’m convinced that much of that Inspiration for themes can come from anywhere, movies, fashion, books… When Downton Abbey was all the rage, we saw a lot of customers looking for that ‘English tea-party, deep-lined, high-structure’ feel in their glasses. It’s all interrelated, picking out color schemes and textures is where culture meets design, and it’s always being renovated and revised.”
Bates’ read on color is particularly interesting. “Recently, we’ve seen a trend of people moving away from gender-oriented colors,” she explained. “Fluffy pinks and baby blues are showing up less and are being superseded by neutral hues such as taupe or malachite green that can be embodied in a wider range of situations. My policy is that rules are meant to be broken. We’re happy to help you mix-and-match décor to invent quirky and memorable experiences for your event.”
The Metro New York catering professional shared her preview of glassware for Fall ‘23: “The Essex Tinted Goblets are a great example of a classy style, with a royal feel and a detailed look,” she said. “It provides a vintage appearance and chic sophistication that’s perfect for conventional events. For more out-of-the-box get togethers, the Stockholm Collection has avant-garde tones that can match warm or cool palates. The 15oz glasses have color options like tinted smoke, amber, amethyst, or the newly released midnight blue, apricot, or sage green. With so many choices, the tints add pops of spice sure to amplify your event and provide a lasting impression.”
One of Bates and Party Rental’s tenets is that the setup can’t be complete without a sturdy base – the tablecloth. “Earth tones and florals are always a hit around the flannel-lined September days,” she said. “When considering tablecloths, looking at the cross section of texture and color is the key. Nu Weave, a new, custom-made faux linen with a waffle-print-type pattern provides a sturdy alternative to traditional linens. With 20 available colors, choosing the right one will be like walking into the ice-cream shop with an empty stomach and a sweet craving. Other more detailed designs are the new sage green etoile print, blue cornflower paisley print, or the Morocco black and gold print.”
Bates shared her thoughts on upcoming furniture trends. “Aside from what’s on the table, other aspects matter too when throwing a memorable event; and you don’t want to sit out on seat selection. The options for specialty chairs are abundant and can offer unique touches no matter the theme. There are tons of possibilities that are in line this season, like the navy-blue reception chair, black Bellini chair, or even a director’s chair to make your guests feel like their name will be the next on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.”
Bates and her Party Rental LTD team are always on the lookout for the next trending colors. “Viva Magenta was named Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year, a strong and natural color that radiates bold expressions of power. It can flow well with all types of Fall looks, modern or rustic, sophisticated or festive – It works,” she concluded.
So, whether you’re partying with the Gatsby’s, gearing up for the Mad Hatter’s tea party, or preparing for a Ballroom Blitz, Party Rental LTD is equipped for any occasion with the latest tabletop trends this upcoming season.
