Learn How to Set an Easter Table That Evokes the Cheer of Spring

Easter Sunday morning is a time to enjoy traditional dishes, gift baskets of treats to one another, and recognize the season's symbolism of rebirth and change. In that sense, this year is no different—even amid social distancing. Whether you're hosting a few exclusive guests in your quarantine pod or simply enjoying the company of your own immediate family, a sit-down brunch can still raise spirits especially, when served on a decorated table worthy of its presentation.

For tips on how to make your Easter special at home, we turned to party planners Royale Ziegler of But First Party and Rachel Huntington of Bonjour Fete, and their springtime tablescape will inspire you to create your own festive setup on that special Sunday.

A Cheerful Setting

The entire family—kids included—will enjoy being seated at a table that's brimming with color. "The Jollity & Co. 'Yolks on You' plates ($8 for 8, bonjourfete.com) were really the jumping off point for the tablescape design," says Ziegler. "We love how bright, poppy and playful they are, and looked to recreate that spirit elsewhere on the table." The surface was covered in a pink gingham tablecloth, set with additional partyware provided by Huntington: tissue-paper honeycomb bunnies, eggs of every color and size, and basket grass in a makeshift runner down the length of the table. "We paired pieces from the Hello! Lucky for Daydream Society 'Flora' tableware collection (from $6.95, bonjourfete.com) with the yolk plates," explains Ziegler, "as some of the flowers looked similar to the yolks!" The back wall was covered in a rainbow of pastel balloons, which only added to the wow factor.

Of course, it's not Easter without a cameo appearance by the Bunny himself: As the centerpiece, this Bethany Lowe Bunny Bucket ($70, neimanmarcus.com) was filled to the brim with spring flowers: ranunculus, garden roses, light pink sweet pea, and white pampas grass, among others by the philanthropic boutique gifting studio Gratitude Collaborative. "If fresh flowers are less accessible, try dried or faux flowers," as Ziegler suggests. "Repurpose an Easter basket for your vessel."

Hunting for Sweets and Treats

Speaking of surprises, the colorful Spritz Melamine Cupcake Stands ($2 each, target.com) were an of-the-moment Target find; the floral cupcakes from Butter Cake Shoppe looked perfect on top of them, each wrapped in colorful paper. They were scattered along the table, hidden in tufts of basket grass, egg-hunt style. Ziegler and Huntington both say that this idea can be replicated with any treats of your choosing. "Cupcakes or candy, kids like both," says Ziegler. "You cannot go wrong with treats on a table, ever."

Making Memories

As with any celebration, Easter morning goes beyond the tablescape. To inspire children for the holiday in a safe, socially-distant way, Ziegler and Huntington both suggest starting a new tradition together—it could be baking goodies, decorating eggs or making crafts with a kit, enjoying an egg hunt in the backyard or indoors, or photographing the family with "Happy Easter" flags ($9.50, bonjourfete.com) in that picture-perfect moment.