Styling Tips from Joanna Wolfe

Creating Tables That Tell a Story

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At NACHTMANN, we believe in elevating everyday moments into something truly special—and when it comes to entertaining, the table is where magic happens.

We reached out to Joanna Wolfe, fan of the brand and owner of the styling and events business, The Girl Who Cried Wolfe.

A creative force in event styling and tablescaping, Jo shared her go-to tips for creating stunning tables at home. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner party or a dreamy celebration, Jo’s advice is all about beautiful detail, thoughtful layering, and effortless abundance.

Q: Where do you start when styling a table?

Jo: Have a colour theme in mind and try to base your table around that. I usually select my florals first - whether it is neutrals, soft pastels, brights or moody reds - then allow the feel of the table to be dictated by them.
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Q: What styling trends are you loving right now?

Jo: Vintage silver is having a real moment—platters, candle holders, anything with a bit of character. On one of our moody valley tables, we draped layers of chiffon fabric and used flower frogs in the vases—an old-school technique that allows for artistic placemat of the florals. 

Q: How do you create the “wow” factor?

Jo: I love to style my florals with fruits that tie back in with the colour theme. For a recent romantic set-up, I paired lush red roses and elegant long orchids and smoke bushes with red grapes, plums, figs, and berry nougat. It’s all the little details that make our tables special.

Q: Do you lean towards minimal or maximal?

Jo: I love to have an overall feeling of abundance on my tables. Gorgeous crystal wine and water glasses, long tapered candles and beautiful linen or chiffon tablecloths matched with gorgeous plates and side plates... If space permits, placemats are a great option, too. I even once built a mini champagne tower with the NACHTMANN Noblese cocktail glasses. A statement like this can really elevate a table. A champagne tower also looks perfect standing alone on a small round table or as a feature on a grazing table. 

Q: And for those who prefer a more minimal approach?

Jo: For something more refined, I would switch to bud vases or single-stem vases with smaller clusters of fruit that still make an impact. It’s amazing what a few lemons, limes and grapes can do to elevate a table

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Q: Do you have advice for styling food?

Jo: Set out a beautiful cheese board on your table for guests to admire and nibble on as soon as they arrive. My go-to's are Pyengana Vintage Cloth Bound Cheddar and Will Studd Le Dauphin Double-Crème Brie, combined with artisan crackers, dried fruits, quince paste, olives, and a dip matching back with your colour theme. It's an instant crowdpleaser! And if possible, display foods and treats on platters of various heights to add depth.

Q: Any final tips?

Jo: The best part about styling for impact is that this can all be prepared before your guests arrive, allowing you to relax and enjoy the evening!

Inspired to style your next table?

Discover our NACHTMANN collections here and add your own touch of timeless elegance.

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