Hospitality with Stained Tablecloths

A few months ago, I had a family over for hot chocolate and cookies at Christmas time. I am good friends with the parents and their three kids are preschool and elementary age. They brought a yardstick to measure my Christmas tree. =)

The kids had fun drinking their hot chocolate out of teacups (with saucers). At one point, a few drips of hot chocolate got onto the placemat. I assured the child and the parents not to worry. “I love stained tablecloths!” They laughed and teased about getting me a pre-stained tablecloth for Christmas.

I love beautiful things. I am a bit of a perfectionist and aesthetics are very important to me, but I wasn’t lying when I said I loved stained tablecloths. A tablecloth that is already stained takes off the pressure to try to keep it perfect. If I have a new tablecloth (or new clothes, a new phone, etc.) I am always worried about getting the first stain, tear, or ding in it. I am super careful, and sometimes anxious, to try to preserve the pristine condition. However, as much as I like things to be neat, I also like to relax and be comfortable. I want my guests to be comfortable too.

I have many vintage tablecloths, blankets, clothes, etc. I like to put them to use if possible. I get to enjoy them more this way and so do others. However, I don’t want my guests to be worried about messing up my antiques. If anyone seems nervous to touch things, I usually point out that most of my furniture was rescued off the side of the road or bought at a yard sale.

As you are decorating and hosting, consider how your space can be welcoming. A welcoming environment is going to combine elements of beauty and comfort. I am a firm believer that it is possible and maybe even necessary for comfortable, homey things to also be beautiful.