Early on in my relationship, my now husband quietly mentioned "I see you got me a new tray." Browsing the Target dollar bins I found a shallow wooden bowl that was just screaming to be added to his desk.
No one else could hear the cries, but I sure did.
As the weeks went on one tray after another were placed on shelves, coffee tables, on top of books being held by other trays. And months later, just as he noticed that first tray so calmly with no judgement, he answered a friend in casual conversation "Shelby loves trays."
to which he is absolutely right.
I think trays are one of the most essential items to tying together your decor. Adding layers of trays to a cheese board, or placing a catch all on your nightstand is an immediate enhancement of your space.
So what are a few ways to incorporate trays in your home? Here are a few tips:
Use trays for levels - Layering trays is one of my favorite ways to add just the smallest extra touch to a cheese board or dinner scape. Playing with sizes and variations of tray textures and materials is a beautiful way to pull in an eclectic touch to your next moment of hosting.
Use trays for highlighting - This one might seem a little counter intuitive, but I love the look of a few books or a box with a tray on top. Your eye is immediately drawn to the tray and then settles on the items below. This is also a great way to use those smaller trays you have collected over the years in a new way.
Use trays for holding - And last but most certainly not least, is the catch all tray. Have keys with no place to hang? Or your jewelry strung across the night stand every evening? Adding a delicate tray to your entry way or bedside tables is a lovely way to contain every day items.
Wether these be finds from the dollar section at Target, or a family heirloom passed down over time. I don't believe you need to spend a lot to make a big impact in your home and when hosting with simple tips like these.