Welcome

Hi, my name is Ana and this is my first blog post, so please don't judge :P

I love home decor and I constantly change things up in my home, my husband is probably going crazy, but he finally learns to live with my ideas. The one thing that I am specially passioned about it tablescaping. I love it so much that I decided to design my own table linens. 

When I was little we always ate Saturday and Sunday dinners together. I prepared meals with my Grandma and Mom. She learned me how to cook, set the table and arrange the cutlery. I usualy lean to the aranging part a little bit more than cooking... And looking back at that time, I'd love to tell you about the art of slow dining.

In most of Europe we love long gatherings. The tradition has, that a Christmas Eve dinner has 12 courses. But it's not only about the eating but about the conversation and the connection. At that time the table becomes the heart of the home. 

Children's parties, christening and birthdays are long awaited occasions, when all family and friends gather around.  

In our fast world, we're always rushing somewhere, often eating dinner on the go or in front of the screen - alone. I know it's hard but what if we could reclaim the beauty of slow dining - not just for special occasions, but in everyday life?

What Is Slow Dining?

Slow dining is the art of being fully present at the table.  It means savoring food instead of rushing through it, enjoying conversation with your friends, and allowing meals to unfold at their own pace, when everyone is ready.

The tradition is deeply rooted in European culture, like it was often in my house. Dining is not only about the nutrition but about creating memories. A meal becomes a celebration of flavors, of friendship, of time itself.

Why It Matters

Connection. A slow dinner invites real conversations, encourages your guests to share stories that stretch long after the plates are cleared. It turns a simple meal into quality time together

Well-being. Eating slowly and carefully reduces stress, improves digestion, and helps us appreciate the food we eat.

Joy. The details like a flicker of candlelight, the softness of cotton napkins, the taste of freshly baked bread remind us that small things in life matter and true happines can be found in everyday rituals.

How to Create a Slow Dining Ritual at Home

You don’t need a grand feast to embrace slow dining. With just a few thoughtful touches, any meal can feel extraordinary.

Make The Time

Even on a busy weeknight, you can pause, light a candle, and set the table with care. Soup and bread served with cloth napkins can feel just as memorable as a five-course dinner.

The magic lies not in the menu, but in the attention you give to the moment.

If that's possible plan some time every day to spend with your friends and family, I know it can be difficult, but you could always reserved your weekends. 

Set the Atmosphere

Dim the lights, add a few candles, and play soft background music. Seasonal flowers, a small bowl of fruit, or a simple branch of greenery like the tree brunches from your garden, can create a natural centerpiece.

Put Away Distractions

Make the table a phone-free zone. Turn off your phone or put it in a different room. Even when it's blocked it's still stealing everyone's attention. A slow dinner feels different when everyone is fully present.

Elevate with Details

Cloth napkins, a tablecloth, or even placemats instantly transform a meal. These small details show care and intention, turning an ordinary dinner into a ritual. My handmade napkins are created for exactly this purpose - to make every meal feel special, whether it’s a Sunday dinner with the family or a Monday pasta for two.

Time goes by so quickly, that we are happy when we find some time to cook a home made dinner, but we can choose to slow down. We can choose to share time with our real friends - not virtual, and to create memories that linger far longer than the meal itself.

That’s the beauty of slow dining. It’s not about luxury, it’s about intention. And that adding a few small touches, can make an ordinary dinner, extraordinary.

I want to help you achieve that, that's why I created Set The Table Guide with tip and tricks to make your life easier not only while preparing a big event, but in your day-to-day.

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See You soon,

Ana