A few years ago, a client asked me to do the tablescapes for a Beatrix Potter- themed gender reveal. The mom-to-be wanted a classic, English garden feel, and I immediately knew that vintage silver would be the perfect way to execute this theme.

One of the easiest ways to elevate a tablescape is to swap standard vases for unexpected containers. Thinking outside the box here adds character and quietly reinforces the theme.

For this client, using vintage silver tea pots, sugar and creamer sets, and even silver baby cups, created a collected look and a sense of nostalgia. Vintage or heirloom-inspired containers add emotional weight to an event, especially one celebrating new life. They feel sentimental, even if they weren’t passed down.

When using unique containers, repetition matters. Sticking to one material—like silver—keeps the look cohesive even when shapes vary. Using a variety of pieces such as taller teapots, mid-sized creamers, and petite baby cups, creates visual interest and movement across the table.

So where to start? When trying to find unique containers, start by looking around your house to see what you may already have that can be used. You’d be surprised by what can be turned into a floral container! Browse thrift stores or antique malls. Once you find one or two pieces you can hone your search for additional ones.

When choosing flowers, make sure you keep them scaled for the container. You want unique vessels to be part of the floral design, not hidden by the arrangement itself. Here, small baby cups held a single rose, a sprig of greenery, and just a hint of baby’s breath. They looked so sweet scattered on the tables. Larger florals such as hydrangeas were reserved for the larger tea pots.

When you think outside the box and choose more unique containers for the flowers, you invite guests to lean in, reminisce, and connect. And that’s the true magic of a well-designed table.