A Spring Tablescape at the Beachside Hotel in Nantucket
An editorial photoshoot on the beach on Nantucket Island
A Celebration of Color, Craft, and Conscious Design
A tablescape that shifts with the light. What began as a bright, springtime display transformed into something more intimate as the sun dipped beneath the horizon. At the newly renovated Beachside Hotel on Nantucket, we captured this floral-forward dinner design in both natural daylight and candlelight glow—a visual story told in two chapters.
Sustainable Florals That Tell a Story
Designed by the team at Honey Thyme Events in collaboration with Meraki Blommor, the table was grounded in sustainable floral practices—featuring potted botanicals rather than traditional cut stems. Sustainability in floral design means reduced waste, longer-lasting arrangements, and a more environmentally mindful approach to beauty. These plants can be taken home, replanted, or used again, offering a life beyond the event.
A Table Set for the Season
Textural terracotta pots housed richly hued foliage—bold reds, vibrant greens, and periwinkle purples—evoking a sense of early spring waking up from winter’s rest. Lola Valentina Designs provided the striped napkins and textiles that added both playfulness and cohesion to the setting. The tableware and rentals, sourced through The Event Rental Co, brought an elegant balance of modern form and timeless charm.
Layered Light and Shifting Mood
As the shoot progressed and the sun set, the atmosphere shifted. Candlelight danced along the table, reflecting off pressed glassware and casting shadows among the plants. This dual lighting allowed us to explore two sides of the same design—one soft and airy, the other warm and grounded. The three tapered candles in a clustered holder offered a gentle flicker that made the evening feel cozy and quietly celebratory.
Designed With Intent
Honey Thyme Events led planning and production, drawing from their talent for laid-back yet curated gatherings. Their styling approach always allows for a sense of movement and personality, and here it showed in the choice of layered patterns and mixed textures. The stationery, designed by Hannah Turner Studio, echoed the natural palette and brought a thoughtful graphic touch to each place setting.
Venue With a New Chapter
The Beachside Hotel, recently refreshed with an eye for classic Nantucket character and modern comfort, proved to be the perfect canvas. Soft blue walls and sweeping ceilings complemented the palette and created a space where a simple dinner could feel elevated without trying too hard.
This shoot was a reminder of how small details—living plants, intentional design, and shifting light—can create a table that feels both intimate and full of life. Whether for a wedding welcome party or a slow Sunday dinner with friends, this kind of setting invites you to linger a little longer.
