There’s so much planning that goes into the preparation of the first night of Rosh Hashanah! Although we get our lists started weeks in advance there never seems to be enough time to get it all done. What to cook, food shopping, preparing the house, deciding on our table theme -- and then the clean up! Of course, all of that work is well worth it and makes not only lasting memories but we feel that we are doing our part to continue centuries old traditions in style.
The next day when we return from services at shul, we have a relaxing lunch with family. It’s a more calm affair and a meal that doesn’t get a lot of attention in terms of preparation and planning. The reality is that it’s one of our favorite times to enjoy everyone being together and talk about the year ahead. We are obsessed with table decor, as everyone knows, and a theme that we love is picnic inspired with a twist. Think casual chic!
Gingham placemats with pom-poms are the foundation for our theme. We love the playfulness of this design, yet it’s still dressed up enough to respect the holiday. Our floral inspiration uses apples. If you missed it, be sure to check out Gabriela’s apple and hydrangea floral arrangement using the Apeloig Menorah. Take a careful look at the napkins and you will notice that we selected the same flowers for our floral display. It’s these small details that are easy to implement and add that something special to the table.
Just in case you are wondering, the modern acrylic challah board is the striped style in smoked gray. We selected this color because of the hints of the same shade in the placemats. Luckily the board holds two round challahs! Loving honey as much as we do, we used the board’s dish for a sweet something instead of salt.
If your family is lucky enough to own a shofar, enjoy its beauty! Especially if your shofar is a family heirloom or you bought it for your child, putting it on the table as part of your display is a wonderful conversation starter.
And speaking of conversation starters, we love our new honey bee jar! During the year when we come across an interesting item we purchase it knowing that it will add interest to one of our table themes.
Our best piece of advice is to try something new for your holiday table. Don’t be afraid to mix textures and patterns or to add a special heirloom. It’s part of honoring traditions and making them your own.
Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy New Year! L'shanah Tovah!
