Take the stress out of styling with Donna Collins and Colette Williams. This creative friendship is the inspiration behind Fancy Neighbour, an Auckland-based enterprise dedicated to the art of elegant tablescaping. A business founded on a shared belief that beautiful, memorable hosting should be achievable and stress-free, not reserved for expensive events or professional stylists. Their approach is driven by their passion for colour-forward, pattern-driven, coordinated styling, that is intentionally matched and beautifully simple. They believe the dinner table is the heart of a home gathering and that the setting should reflect a feeling of nurture and care for those seated there. By offering meticulously planned, themed and packaged DIY kits, they are on a mission to empower us all with the confidence to host, underpinned by a philosophy that true hospitality is about setting the scene for connection and conversation.

A beautifully set table does more than hold plates and glasses. It sets the mood, sparks conversation, and makes every guest feel special. Tablescaping is the art of creating a cohesive, styled table using layers, textures, colour, and thoughtful details, transforming an ordinary dinner into a memorable event.

1. Start with a base
   Choose a tablecloth, runner, or placemats as your foundation. Neutral tones allow other elements to pop, while patterns can add instant personality.
   
2. Layer for depth
   Combine textures like linen, wood, glass, or ceramic. Layering creates visual interest and gives your table a curated, effortless feel.
   
3. Think height variation
   Mix tall candles with low bud vases or small décor items. Variation adds dimension and draws the eye across the table.
   
4. Mix and match carefully
   Mismatched plates, glasses, or cutlery can look intentional when balanced by colour, shape, or material. Don’t be afraid to break away from perfectly uniform settings.
   
5. Use unexpected décor pieces
   Incorporate items like decorative bowls, ceramic figurines, or vintage glassware as part of your table styling. These small touches add personality without relying solely on flowers.
   
6. Incorporate natural elements
   Seasonal greenery, citrus, or herbs add texture, colour, and fragrance to your table without overpowering it. Skip the vase and place them directly on the table for a relaxed, natural feel.
   
7. Choose statement serveware
   A bold platter, patterned bowls, or a standout cake stand can become a focal point and elevate the whole look.
8. Pay attention to cutlery placement
   Even simple arrangements feel polished when knives, forks, and spoons are aligned neatly and balanced with plates and napkins.
9. Add a personal touch
   Custom name cards, handwritten menus, or a tiny decorative item at each setting makes guests feel considered and adds charm.
   
10. Light it right
    Candles, fairy lights, or even lanterns add warmth and ambience. Soft lighting transforms a table from pretty to unforgettable. You could even add some fake candles if there’s little hands around.

Some of the beautiful Fancy Neighbour Packages include:

Olive Hour

Olive Hour is a Fancy Neighbour autumn tablescape centered on soothing olive greens, warm browns, and earthy natural tones. Layered with woven textures, natural materials, and thoughtful alfresco elements, it creates a sense of relaxed sophistication. This styling offers a calm, grounded approach to outdoor autumn hosting, inviting guests to linger and enjoy the season’s cosy, understated beauty.

Burnt Magnolia

Burnt Magnolia is a Fancy Neighbour theme that layers burgundy, mustard-gold, forest green, and dark grey over the magnolia-print foundation for a moody, evening ambiance. Velvet ribbons, magnolia foliage, crystal glassware, and gold cutlery build depth and warmth, while burgundy candles and dark wood accents enhance the intimate indoor feel. The result is a cohesive, atmospheric winter setting grounded in texture, richness, and seasonal elegance.

Peonies & Bows

Summer is the time to go bold. Use bright colours, fresh blooms, and confident patterns. Play with contrast and don’t be afraid to mix tones. Summer tables should feel light, energetic, and easy. One of the best-kept secrets for fresh, seasonal blooms that feel authentic and effortless is local flower growers – once you find a good one, you won’t look back! 

For our bows and tablecloths we like to make what we can’t find with our sewing machine sourcing beautiful fabrics that you can tailor perfectly to your table from local haberdasheries. Experiment with a pattern that sets the colour palette for your table to have something truly unique.

Coco Club

Slap on the Aloe Vera and slip into that glamorous party dress for a fabulous Hawaiian inspired cocktail party. After a big day at the beach we want to come home to a prepared simple and light but luxe and sparkly menu to delight our guests beyond chip and dip and sausies on the BBQ. We are loving this gathering for a funky, special New Years Eve bash with it’s cool greens and watermelon reds, gin cocktails and no need to set the table! 

 

Read all about this fabulous duo in the Gather Journal on sale in stores now or visit fancyneighbour.com to book one of their beautiful tablescape packages.