I'm Dressing Up My Dining Table to Make Meals Feel Special—These Are My Faves

Candles belong within two camps: those only meant to be seen, and those meant to be burned. As you could probably tell, these fall into the latter category. Unburned they look like basic white candles, but after burning, evolve into this colorful drippy mess that's aesthetically pleasing. 

If you're really trying to capture a restaurant-worthy experience, please don't use paper towels. Yes, you'll actually have to throw these in the laundry, but the payoff is worth it.

I always recommend opting for drinking glasses in unusual shapes. Morrocan Beldi glasses have been on my wishlist for the better part of this year. You'll want to order the largest size as these run small.

Like you dug it out of an estate sale.

These usually sell out, so act fast.

Fashion-Instagram sure does love a mushroom inspired home decor item.

A jazzy backdrop for all of the inevitable food pics.

A saturated dose of color to house all of your produce. 

All I want for the holidays is this weird, drippy candle holder. You've likely seen this in the background of several Danish it-girls, and it's certainly an item that's rare to find in stock.

Jugs like this are super versatile because you can either stick in a fresh bouquet or use it as a vessel for orange juice during weekend brunch.

Food really shines against a classic white plate. And since the aim is making it feel as though you're dining at a cool restaurant, you'll want to go for a modern stacked version. I've seen plates like these used at trendy eateries all over the Lower East Side. 

The flatware set I'm currently saving up for.

FYI, this isn't a candle you want to burn. Among your plates of food, a joyful pink candle creates a mood-lifting centerpiece.

You may not be entertaining this year, but a gorgeous cheese plate is perfectly acceptable to eat solo.

Because the bottles of natural wine won't open themselves.

Ready to display all of your pasta carbonara creations.

To dress up your elegant cheese board.

Fabrek is the Danish mecca for charming pastel home objects like this handcrafted mug.

Bored of your dining table? Before getting rid of the one you have, layer over a tablecloth. It's a cost-effective hack to bring instant elegance. 

Is a glass cruet absolutely necessary? No. But at least it really sells the illusion of being in a real restaurant. 

If you don't own them by now, Ferm Living's ripple glasses come highly recommended. While the brand's drinking glasses are hugely popular, don't overlook their wine goblets. Whether it's a $5 bottle of wine or a $500 bottle, these will ooze elegance just the same.

A candle you do want to burn.

An inexpensive find that looks triple its price.

Set the mood with some candlelight during your meal.

This is definitely more of an investment item, but it's one you'll treasure for a lifetime. Use it to store salt or sugar for the table.