Five Ways to Work a Serving Tray
Decorate, declutter, you name it—a good serving tray can go a long way in any space.
Our love affair with serving trays is going strong. And we’re not alone in our obsession, either: Effortlessly chic and incredibly versatile, the au courant accessory is the ultimate decorator’s trick. From a centerpiece to a catchall, you can use it in a million different ways. Here, five of our favorites.
1. As a Mini Bar
Not enough space for a bar cart? Designate a tray for a select stash of elegant bottles, barware, and cocktail fixings, then set it out on your table or countertop. An added bonus: If the party heads outdoors or to another room, you can bring the bar along with you.
Look to your serving tray as a unifying foundation layer. Grouping disparate pieces (think: collectibles and knickknacks) inside will help to create a display that showcases your favorite objects in a more polished, intentional way.
If your living room is home to a plush, tufted ottoman instead of a traditional, glass-topped coffee table, look to a serving tray to provide a stable, flat surface. Simply place it in the center of your ottoman to give guests a safe spot to sit drinks and snacks on.
4. As Bathroom Storage
If your powder room lacks much-needed cabinetry and drawer space, use a tray—set atop the counter or even the toilet—to corral soaps and other toiletries. To keep things organized, we recommend using small canisters to categorize items.
5. As a Centerpiece
Rather than set a single vase in the middle of a large dining room table, fill a tray with several arrangements of varying heights and styles. The tray will help to break up the wide surface, while the multitude of flowers will add wow-factor.
