11/10/2009 10:00:02 AM

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By Holly Ebel

Post-Bulletin, Rochester MN 

Deb Frederick is an expert at putting things together decoratively. Using just a few objects, she can turn a table into a stunning formal setting or one that is more casual and comfortable. In the past, she was the go-to person for wedding and event planning, but these days she concentrates more on her tabletop and accessory boutique, Tableside Manor.

Located on the lobby level of the Marriott Hotel facing the Peace Plaza in downtown Rochester, it has everything you need to set a festive holiday table.

"Thanksgiving and Christmas are when family becomes especially important, so it is the perfect time to use those things that have been passed on to you," Frederick says.

Frederick suggests starting with a base.

"Most of us have white dishes that we can use as chargers, then add the family China," she says. What if there are not enough pieces? "It doesn't matter -- mix it up. An assortment of dishes creates a wonderful look."

Linens also set the stage, whether you use Grandmother's old quilt or a good tablecloth. Napkins have become larger and can even be used as placemats, Frederick says.

Frederick says your table does not have to be formal or expensive, nor do you have to use flowers. "You can create wonderful centerpieces out of fresh fruit like grapes, apples and pears," she says.

Thanksgiving especially is the perfect time to bring the outside in. Use small mini pumpkins as decoration or to hold flowers at each place and collect acorns and chestnuts to use in your arrangement. Frederick also suggests collecting colorful leaves, drying them, then writing guests names on each, placing them on a napkin as a place card.

In something of a break with tradition, Frederick likes to get away from the reds and greens of Christmas. "Try gold and silver for a change," she says.

Whatever direction you go with the table, she emphasizes the importance of lighting. "Keep it low, and use candles. If you have a collection of candlesticks, use those. Votives are also a great addition."

Frederick's last bit of advice: "Make your table your own personal work of art, no matter how simple. Be proud of it."

Many of those same suggestions are voiced by floral designers Sandy Stock and Linda Weiberg of Colours at Sargeant's on 2nd. They too suggest using fresh fruit like pineapples, grapes, apples and pomegranates. "You can add pepperberries as well -- they always bring a special look," Stock says.

A natural and inexpensive way to decorate the table is to bring in trimmed boughs and greens then add rosehips, pine cones, pepperberries and even artichokes. "Simple," she says.

Stock also feels that one color floral arrangements are beautiful -- "Using all white in a centerpiece is elegant."

Holly Ebel is a Rochester freelance writer.

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