Setting the Table | Recap and Reflections

A Month at the Table

Since the end of September and the Tabletop Challenge, I’ve been reflecting on what the month of table setting meant to me — and the many ways it reminded me to slow down and savor small, everyday moments.

Last week, I orchestrated my first photoshoot since becoming the sole founder of this little side business. Somewhere in the midst of the prep and the piles of linens, I remembered that back in the very early days of my career in fashion, I once helped a stylist and photographer friend with a shoot — long before the days of social media and content calendars. Funny how life circles back like that.

For this shoot, I created a detailed shot list to match my content calendar — images that would feel true to Trudie, highlight product, and stretch across the upcoming seasons. And while my focus (and energy!) were completely redirected into pulling it all together, the result ended up being my favorite table setting yet.

I combined our green gingham tablecloth (just a few rectangle sizes left), Constance placemats (preorders shipping in two weeks), and the new Beatrice napkins. Styled with a simple fall arrangement and plenty of greenery, the whole table came to life — warm, fresh, and welcoming. I’m already planning to recreate it for our Thanksgiving dinner.

(I spy a little one on the floor as I was snapping this photo!)

Thank you for being part of the Tabletop Challenge this month. Whether you set the table once or every night, I hope it encouraged you to find a little rhythm, a little beauty, and a little joy in gathering with the people you love. Here’s to many more moments shared around the table.