'How do you style a dining table without a formal floral arrangement?' – here's everything you need for a curated display, according to Shea McGee

As fall approaches, we are nearing the season renowned for hosting and celebrating – which means your dining table is about to become the busiest area in your home.

While decorating your table for a formal dinner might feel like second nature by now, you probably don't want to create a centerpiece that requires a fresh bouquet for every meal you have or host.

The good news is that there are plenty of alternative ways to create a beautiful dining table without purchasing formal arrangements every time.

Interior designer Shea McGee just took to Instagram to share her top tips for grouping dining table decor, and they include pieces you probably already have in your home.

Shea McGee's top dining table styling tips

'I'm often asked how do you style a dining table when it's not a formal floral arrangement?' says Shea, standing in front of a wood dining table topped with a large flower display – with a decidedly fall feel to it. But there are a few other ways she likes to arrange table decor that doesn't include a bountiful bouquet.

'Some of the principles that I look for when pairing groupings on a dining table are usually a group of two with one a taller thing and a shorter thing. Maybe it's a larger vase and a bowl – a vase that looks good with or without flowers and a bowl that looks good with or without fruit in it,' she explains.

Opting for table decor that is pretty and functional works particularly well – not only does it add visual appeal, but you can also use decor to display the items you actually need to keep on the table. This is especially useful if you're hosting and table space is scarce.

And, introducing a vase as part of your decor means you can add flowers when it suits without having to rejig everything. A win-win!

'Then I will also look at a grouping of three, so potentially a pair of taper candles – those look good unlit or lit – and then I'll pair them with something lower,' says Shea, which is ideal if you have a slightly larger dining table, or you simply want a grander decorative display.

The rule of three is a staple in interior design, and it works perfectly for decorating a dining table. It not only gives a collected feel, but a grouped trio is a fool-proof way to add attention-grabbing decor. Three seems to be the magic number – too many different pieces can feel cluttered and confused, rather than a curated centerpiece.

'The candles become the higher thing and then I'll place a tray or a bowl next to it,' she adds. The key here is to play with scale – pairing decor that's tall and short, wide and narrow, will give your dining table decor more interest and dimension.

'That's a pretty no-fail approach to getting a simple dining table look that you didn't have to buy fresh flowers for,' Shea finishes.

Shop the look

These simple yet effective tips for decorating a flower-free dining table prove that sometimes less really is more. a few pretty candle holders paired with your favorite ceramics can go a long way to creating an eye-catching centerpiece.