There’s something magical about spring entertaining, especially when it’s for a bridal brunch! As the world begins to bloom again, it’s the perfect time to celebrate love with a table that feels fresh, joyful, and thoughtful. For designer Joanna Buchanan, spring entertaining is all about embracing the beauty of the season. Inspired by her garden, Buchanan’s style is all about layers of color, texture, and playful sparkle; think luxe linens, ruffled straw mats, and her signature critter-adorned accents.
Start with the Garden (Even If You’re Indoors)
For Joanna Buchanan, spring tablescape inspiration begins just outside her window. “I’m hugely influenced by the colors and shapes of what’s happening in my garden,” she says. “It’s the energy of things coming back to life.” Translating that feeling to the table starts with playful, intentional layering: ruffled straw placemats in soft pastels or saturated spring tones, crisp linen napkins that bring a luxurious hand-feel, and her signature napkin rings featuring bees, butterflies, and other garden critters. The result is a table that feels fresh and alive, like a celebration in full bloom, even if you’re dining indoors.
Layer in Color, Texture, and a Touch of Sparkle
Spring tables come to life through layers; think natural textures, lively color, and a bit of unexpected shine. Buchanan recommends starting with standout foundational pieces, like her ruffle edge straw placemats. Available in both soft pastels and brighter hues, they “bring such whimsy to any spring table.” Paired with her 100% linen napkins, chosen for their “very luxe hand feel” and ability to “take color and print so beautifully”, the look is both vibrant and refined.
Then add a little sparkle, perhaps a crystal-encrusted napkin ring or a metallic accent woven into your glassware. When it comes to dinnerware, don’t overlook practicality. Buchanan’s garden melamine collection is elegant enough for indoors, but perfect for effortless outdoor entertaining. With the right mix of playful charm and practical ease, it’s a seasonal essential that works for everything from backyard brunches to more refined celebrations.
Add Meaningful Details for the Bride-to-Be
A bridal brunch is the perfect opportunity to blend celebration with personal details, and for Joanna Buchanan, that means choosing pieces that speak to both the bride and the season. “For bridal brunches and showers, I adore using the Stripey Bee and Sparkle collection on the table in blues and golds for the bride-to-be, and the ‘something blue,’” she says. The bee motif adds whimsy, while the color palette brings in a traditional element in a fresh way. Buchanan also loves incorporating her wedding picks and glass charms for a fun, elegant touch. “They are just perfect on the table,” she says. For a more refined look, her Knot Collection offers a clean, elegant alternative that still honors the bridal theme without overwhelming it.
Small Touches, Big Impact
Sometimes, it’s the small touches that truly elevate a celebration, and Buchanan’s designs excel in adding those thoughtful details. Her clip sets are the perfect example, elegant yet functional, they can be used in multiple ways. “They’re amazing as wedding favors and hostess gifts in the spring—so perfect for bridal bouquets,” she says. These clips also add a special moment when attached to place cards or even used as a charming accent on champagne flutes. By incorporating these personal, garden-inspired accents into your table design, you create a sense of intimacy and beauty that guests will remember long after the event. “It’s those tiny details that make the day feel extra special,” Buchanan notes, and that’s exactly what transforms a simple brunch into a meaningful celebration.
As you plan your spring bridal brunch, remember that the most memorable celebrations are the ones that feel personal and thoughtfully curated. By layering in bold colors, textures, and meaningful details, like Joanna Buchanan’s signature pieces, you can create a table that’s not only beautiful but also full of life and joy. Whether you’re embracing garden-inspired accents or adding a touch of whimsy with her critter designs, these small touches will elevate the moment and make the bride-to-be feel truly special. After all, it’s the little details that turn a brunch into a lasting memory.
