A Gorgeous Spring Table with Room to Bloom

This spring table-perfect for Easter, Mother's Day or any weekend brunch-has two color palettes: Pink and yellow thread through the glasses, napkins and flowers. Shades of blue link the vases, eggs and plates. The effect is eclectic but cohesive.

The strategy To arrange flowers in a wide vessel, lay a grid of floral tape across the opening, or nestle floral foam or a ball of chicken wire inside.The height Think low. Make sure flowers don't block eye contact.The blooms For a contemporary look, combine a few show blooms with a wispy, trailing filler. Our mix: poppy, ranunculus, lisianthus, clematis, Juliet garden rose, Antique Caramel garden rose.Psst! Compote-style vases are ideal for centerpieces because the narrow stem leaves more real estate for food.

Keep fine or vintage china from looking stuffy by mixing in modern accents: casually knotted loose-weave napkins and plates or serving dishes with an organic, hand-thrown look.

Build a "nest" on a vintage plate with floral trimmings or sprigs from the yard, then top with a bell cloche. Tip: To avoid condensation on the glass or eggs, place tiny adhesive Glue Dots under the rim of the cloche so air can circulate.

For your Easter table, dye fresh eggs in a few vibrant colors. Or decoupage papier-mâché egg forms using strips of cotton fabric and matte Mod Podge.

The cart Clear off your bar cart to offer a rolling, dim sum-style dessert service. The food Variety is a must, but you don't have to bake multiple recipes. Decorate cupcakes with two flavors of icing, or do one dessert plus dishes of purchased extras-chocolates, colorful candies or petite cookies.The bev Pass a hot drink with the sweets. We like tea because choosing from an assortment of tea bags doubles the fun of the cart.

To save money on a floral buffet like this (or any arrangement), splurge on a couple of things, such as a specialty rose or an unusual shade of ranunculus, at the florist. Then hit the always-reliable and affordable floral section at Trader Joe's (or explore in your own garden) to round out the assortment.

Invite everyone to assemble posies at a flower buffet. No need for water tubes: Fabric and twine conceal a wet paper towel in a plastic sandwich baggie. Guests should retrim stems and put flowers in a bud vase at home.

The flower whisperer behind this story. Daughter of an avid gardener. Owner and creative director of Fleur in Chicago-stop by her Logan Square boutique for a workshop or to browse plants, jewelry, ceramics, soaps and more.