Easter in South Africa is a magical time and the most important festival in the Christian Calendar. For Christians, it’s also a time of deep reflection on the ultimate sacrifice of love and redemption—the crucifixion of Jesus Christ—which adds profound meaning to this season. The weather has a gentle chill as autumn begins to creep in, which also makes it the perfect season to gather around the table with family and friends. Today, we explore ways to decorate the perfect Easter table.
Let's Decorate our Easter Table!
Step 1: Keep It Natural and Cozy
With Easter just before the winter, embrace the beauty of the changing seasons. Start with a neutral or earthy tablecloth, like beige or light grey, to ground your design. If you’re feeling bold, a pale yellow or soft green will work well. Add some texture with a woven runner or placemats—think rattan or jute for that laid-back, natural vibe.
Step 2: Pick Your Colour Palette
Easter doesn’t need to be pastel overload! You can mix warm tones like burnt orange, dusty pink, and sage green with pops of classic Easter whites and yellows. These colours tie in beautifully with the season’s natural hues while still feeling fresh and festive.
Step 3: Create a Centrepiece That Speaks to Autumn and Easter
Your centrepiece doesn’t have to be over the top. Here are some simple ideas:
Use locally available seasonal flowers mixed with some greenery. Arrange them in a simple vase or even a repurposed glass jar.
Decorate hard-boiled eggs (thinking about the Greeks here!) or polystyrene eggs in your chosen colours. Arrange them in a bowl or a small wooden crate filled with straw.
Add warmth to the table with a few candles or battery-powered fairy lights. The glow creates an inviting atmosphere, especially if your celebration goes into the evening.
Did you know that the Greek Easter (Orthodox Easter) is celebrated on a different date? Orthodox Christians use the Julian calendar, while Western Christians use the Gregorian calendar.
Step 4: Make the Place Settings Personal
Take a little time to make each guest feel special.
Simple Plates: White plates are always a winner, but don’t stress if yours are mismatched; it adds charm! Layer your plate with a linen napkin tied with twine and a sprig of rosemary.
Name Tags: Write each guest’s name on a small card or even a decorated egg. Place it in a little nest or directly on their plate.
Chocolate Treats: Add a tiny wrapped chocolate or mini marshmallow egg as a fun surprise.
Step 5: Scatter Small Decorations
Think of the table as your Easter canvas. Sprinkle some mini Easter bunnies, chicks, or nests across the table. If you’re short on decorations, grab a bag of chocolate eggs and scatter them around for a playful (and edible) touch.
Step 6: The Easter Egg Hunt
If there are kids around, make sure the Easter egg hunt is part of your day. Start it outside or in the garden to give the little ones some fun before they settle at the table. Use some of the eggs they collect to decorate the table when they’re done—they’ll love seeing their treasures become part of the celebration. You can even hide a few special golden eggs with prizes for a bit of added excitement.
Step 7: Keep It Relaxed
The most important part of decorating your Easter table is to enjoy the process. You don’t need to stress over perfection. Whether your flowers lean a little to the left or the kids get involved and things end up a little chaotic, it’s all part of the charm.
Why Easter Matters
Easter is about more than just chocolate eggs and pretty tables. It’s a time to come together, share good food, and reflect on the blessings of the season. In South Africa, it’s also a chance to soak up the last bits of autumn sunshine before winter sets in. So, as you gather around your beautifully decorated table, take a moment to appreciate the company, the laughter, and the memories being made.
Happy Easter!
Grandiflora’s Easter collection is full of adorable bunny decorations that will bring a playful, festive vibe to your home. View our wide selection of Easter Décor.
Shop our adorable Easter Bunnies, Easter Dinnerware, and Easter Eggs.