If I had to pick one trend that I’m seeing this year, it’s maximalism. While we always have our couples who love tradition and timelessness, more and more, we’re seeing couples opt for a look filled with surprises, fun touches and lots and lots of elements. While not for everyone, for those of you toying with this look, below are a few of my tips on how to execute this aesthetic perfectly.
MORE IS MORE
It goes without saying, when designing with a maximalist mindset, more is always going to be more. More color, more textures and overall just more elements. Use lots of flowers styled in a variety of ways, in a variety of pots. Add non floral elements. Add candles in a variety of holders, stands and more. Add bowls to hold fruit, ceramic tiger heads and cloches with hidden surprises. More is more.
USE ALL THE COLORS
When we’re designing a maximalist table, all colors are included. We mix cool tones with warm tones. Sweet white garden blooms and pair them with structured tropicals. We love to sneak in black next to red next to purple next to yellow and more. Use all the colors.
HAVE A GROUNDING ELEMENT
While there’s not a ton of rules when it comes to maximalism, I personally like to have one element that grounds the look. Perhaps we’re designing on a clean glass table with ghost chairs. Or maybe we’re creating our tablescape on a hand carved wood table with benches. Whatever it is, we like to ensure the actual table or textiles we’re using balances out the look as a whole.
TELL A STORY WITH PATTERN
Whether it’s linens, china, vases, glassware or anything else, mismatched patterns are often what takes the maximalist look to the next level. I personally like my patterns to have a point of view or some element of connection and to tell a story. For instance, when working in Mexico, I love to pair Otomi prints with Talavera ceramics. Or perhaps mixing Chinoserie with Layers and layers of …. Especially when the environment or meal calls for it. This connection is what makes the design feel intentional rather than random.
WHEN IN DOUBT, JUST CHOOSE WHAT YOU LIKE
The most fun thing about maximalism is you can truly create a look using all of the things you like. The only editing you need to do is pulling out the elements that don’t inspire you. But if you like it, it works. That’s the rule. So tuck in that tiny lamp you’ve always loved. Have a rose floating in your favorite vintage tea cup. Gather up blooms from your garden and effortlessly style them in your favorite pitcher. Seriously, just pull all of your favorite elements together and I promise you’ll love it.
QUANTITY OVER QUALITY
I think this goes without saying, but maximalism by definitely is based on quantity, however, because there is so much going on, you can sneak in some inexpensive finds or even that chipped vase you’ve been hanging on to because you can’t bear to see it go. Because maximalism will send your guest’s eye in a million different directions, they won’t notice these elements that are usually considered undesirable. And if they do, it will likely add that much more to the experience overall.
ADD HIDDEN SURPRISES
Don’t just include the obvious like vases of flowers, candles, etc. Add little sculptures, wooden toys or other kitschy items that you’re in love with. Tuck them in to overgrown flowers in a way that one discovers something new every time they look at the table.
