Design Life column: Place cards make a table special

Want to add a little something special to your party? Try some individualized place cards. Such a little thing can make a big difference.

You can use them for Christmas parties, New Year’s parties, birthday parties or any other type of party. Whether for a formal dinner party or a casual brunch, the cards add a little pizazz and an element of class. They also provide some low-key organization to your event.

Place cards make a table special and make the people at the table feel special. You can use your creativity to make an individual statement with each one. Create a theme for party and customize each card for the people attending.

Photographs, designs, interesting colors, fancy lettering fonts and the fact that they’re handmade make place cards a unique and intriguing way to welcome your guests. They can also act as a special gift, distinctively created for each person. Place cards are easy to make and the materials are inexpensive.

Here are some design ideas:

• Photographs of each person at the table.

• Baby pictures, family photos or pet photos (great for a family gathering).

• Mini-ornaments with decal letters (simple yet elegant).

• A bell jar with bird’s nest that holds glittered eggs, soaps or any other small gift.

• A small jar or pot with flowers.

• Scrabble letters that spell out the guest’s name.

• A wine cork with a card that has the guest’s name.

There are many other possibilities. If you need some help with ideas, then an interior designer can lend a hand. I have designed cards for my own parties as well as those of clients. My personal preference is cards that are bold, unique and make a statement, but they can be anything you want them to be.

You have the option of using the cards to reflect your home’s decor and/or express the reason for the party. It’s a fun way to make your party different and memorable.

Nancy Sanford, owner of Nancy Sanford Interior Design, is an award-winning interior designer who has been transforming residential and commercial spaces in the Vail area for the past 13 years. For more information, visit nancysanford.com or e-mail Nancy at nancysanford@nancysanford.com.