I’m a firm believer that a pretty table can make any meal better and I’ve always admired stylists who can pull one together while making it look effortless. If you’d like some help in this area or just some new ideas, Table Style by Liz Belton and Rebecca Tanqueray is for you.

Table Style first takes you through the basics of a well-laid table and explains how to collect pieces that can be used to create a variety of tablescapes.

It then goes on to give readers plenty of suggestions and ideas for various occasions such as a casual picnic, weekend brunch, elegant cocktail party or just a weekday dinner.

What I love about the authors’ approach is that it’s simple and accessible. The emphasis of Table Style is on being creative and working with what you have. For example, a simple brown paper and vintage lace make beautiful gift wrapping:

A vintage milk crate is used to carry drinks on a picnic:

Vintage ribbon and a sprig of rosemary is all it takes to give napkins a pretty twist:

Table Style is full of easy-to-recreate ideas like these and like all of Ryland Peters & Small’s other titles, it is beautifully styled and photographed so it’s a real visual treat.

If you or someone you know loves to entertain, it’s the perfect gift this holiday season.

(Photos by Debi Treolar via Ryland Peters & Small)