Hosting Tips

A Whimsical Fiesta

By Chanel Dror
Fiesta Table Settings

Stepping into Love Ding is an interior design junkie’s dream: mid century furnishings and bohemian vintage pieces from all around the globe. And maybe it’s the clean palette with pops of colorful whimsy, but something about the space is just so Austin, too. With one of this town’s favorite holidays approaching fast, we turned to Love Ding owner and born-and-bread Austinite, Denise Roberts, to set a table that’s prime for Cinco de Mayo revelry. With carefully curated details from local artists and beyond, the table is a perfect representation of Denise’s modern-meets-vintage aesthetic, and has us dreaming of margaritas and concha pastries. Keep reading for all the fiesta-inspired details…

*Photography by Nicole Mlakar

Like most, when I think of Cinco de Mayo I think of bright colors and margaritas. So that’s what we did! A neutral background layered with textures and colors instantly creates a fun and exciting fiesta.

*sources: Papel Picado Mini Banner from AyMujer Etsy Shop, Chairs from Love Ding

This table runner was a DIY was made using textured fabric found at our local fabric store. We then used a sticky no-sew tape to apply the pom pom edge, which really helped to define our centerpiece.

*sources: Beyond Marrakech Rug at Love Ding

We recently attended a West Elm Party and were drawn to these royal blue burro candlestick holders. They were just perfect! They became the inspiration for our table, and everything else took off from there.

*sources: West Elm Ceramic Horse Candleholders

Having a collection of different, high quality paper always comes in handy when party planning. We already had some striped card stock on hand and got a metallic gold paint pen to write the guests names to create a finished look.

*sources: Waupecony River Studio Blackstone Cups at Love Ding

We then folded and slung the card stock over the “stems” of our DIY tissue paper flowers to create adorable place cards in a pinch. 

*sources: Judy Jackson plates and bowls, and vintage napkins can be found at Love Ding.

When doing your own table, don’t forget texture! Layering different patterns and finishes makes the table feel full, festive and interesting. It’s simple to do, but makes a huge impact once everything comes together. We added a whimsical element with this Knot & Bow confetti, which is the perfect compliment to your own Cinco De Mayo decor and can be found at Love Ding.

*sources: West Elm Acrylic Hobnail Pitcher and Cups

The best thing about a Mexican-inspired holiday? The food and beverages are just as decorative as the design elements! Use colorful salsas, fresh fruits and fizzy cervezas to cleverly add bright color without knick-knack overkill.

*sources: Vintage Ice Bucket from Love Ding

We purchased these jalapeño cans at our local grocer for less than $1, then set aside the contents for cooking, and used the tin cans as planters for our mini succulents. Voila! Another easy breezy way to bring in color and Mexican flair.

And of course, fresh margaritas are the finishing touch to any fiesta. ¡Salud!