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Another new year is soon upon us-- so I wanted to share one of my all-time favorite centerpieces to bring in 2008. Time is ticking away, so for a fresh new and interesting New Years Eve centerpiece, consider going beyond cut flowers. Instead, surprise your guests on this special evening by using a clock as the focal point of your beautiful table. Then count down the minutes together and bring in the Happiest of New Years!

CENTER OF ATTENTION

This New Years Eve, I’m staying close to home with my husband Tom and nothing could be more romantic than a table set for two that’s not only elegant but will also make our count down to 2008 a fun memory.

To create the center of attention for this table centerpiece, top off a wall mirror with a masculine clock, black flower container, candles and some delicate white ceramic flower accents nested in a strand of colorful aqua sequins for a little extra glam. What I love about this centerpiece is that the clock is an unexpected surprise which will make bringing in the New Year a timeless memory.


KICK IT UP:

Let’s start with a color theme. In this example, I’m using basic black and white with a “kick” of aqua to set the tone for this romantic table for two. I’m a big fan of using a splash of color on my place settings and it’s definitely the contrast of the aqua ribbon with the white ceramic flower against the black plate that makes this table look so appealing. When picking a color theme, here’s a fool proof tip for you. Combine theatrical colors in black and white then kick it up with one accent color—in this case aqua!

PLAY WITH PATTERN:

I love to mix and match patterns however, mixing patterns can be somewhat tricky. So to keep from going overboard, consider combining two-tone black and white patterns in polka dots, stripes or swirls for a fool proof combo. To anchor the patterns, mingle solid blacks or white into the mix of plates and other accent pieces. Can’t find a polka dot napkin or table cloth, then make it yourself! For a tablecloth and setting for two you’ll need about 2 yards of fabric --otherwise gauge the amount of fabric you’ll need according to the size of your table. And here’s an easy way to make napkins. Use “fat quarter” pre-cut fabric pieces readily available at quilt stores and other fabric retailers. Simply finish off the napkin by folding under the raw edges of the fabric, press, sew and go. Don’t sew? Then consider using iron-on adhesives to secure the hem. As an added embellishment, use inexpensive silver frames as place cards or party favors.


INSPIRE YOUR GUESTS:
Everyone loves a beautiful table and this setting is definitely one of my favorites. And if you’d like to see more of this pretty table setting please tune into Living the Life TV show on December 18th on ABC Family Channel at 9:30 a.m. EST and watch me set this same table. Here’s to you and yours for a fabulous and healthy 2008! Cheers!


HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED
• Clock
• Mirror approximately 18” diameter
• Misc. accessories such as candle holders, vases, flowers, glassware, silverware, etc
• One patterned black and white dinner plate and one black salad plate per place setting
• Fabric: Make your own napkins by using “fat quarters of pre-cut fabric” or cut 16 inch (or larger) squares of black and white decorative fabrics
• Table cloth or make your own from polka dot fabric. Yardage will depend upon table size
• Sewing Machine and thread or iron on tape if making your own table cloth and napkins
• Silver frames approximately 3” for place cards or party favors
• 16” length of aqua ribbon per place setting
• White ceramic flowers: 6 for the center piece and one per place setting

 

Watch Kathy Peterson, co-host of The Balancing Act,  M-F at 7 a.m. ET/PT on Lifetime TV Network.

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About Kathy
Kathy Peterson is a celebrity design/lifestyle expert, national TV host and product developer/licensor. Peterson has made 100+ TV guest appearances on HGTV, DIY Network, PBS, TNN, The Discovery Channel and E-TV. 

Kathy’s designs have also been featured in numerous women's publications and celebrity Oscar Gift Bags. She is frequently quoted in a variety of newspapers and magazine such as USA Weekend, Woman's Day, Chicago Tribune, RedBook and Cosmopolitan Magazine.  She is author of 5 books with her most recent book titled

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Kathy Petersons Great Outdoor Decorating Makeovers.

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