Spring has sprung! At least, where I live, it’s trying to. For some reason, the seasonal change from winter into spring affects all aspects of life in a most profound way. Outdoors, of course, the world is coming to life with greens and colorful flowers and sunshine. Inside, too, we start to clear out clutter and clean off surfaces to get a fresh start. Everything seems brighter and more pleasant when springtime comes…including dining. Whether setting the table for a simple family meal or more formally for guests, here are five inspiring tablescape ideas to start your springtime gatherings off right:

A cheerful color palette of yellow, red, and aqua provides the “wow!” factor to this springtime table. The bright colors are tastefully tempered with ivory and whites so as to not look garish, but they are definitely the highlight. A small bit of burlap takes the place of a tablecloth and is dressed up with a paper doily and cheery fabric flower bouquet (which, bonus!, never dies). The simple aqua eggs set atop their cream pedestal stands are the perfect nod to spring.{found on livelaughrowe}.

Speaking of burlap… the stuff is so versatile! Look how it perfectly sets off this airy white + gold + pink table setting. While the whites and the romantic blooms seem like they just might float away here, everything is brought down to earth on an exposed wood tabletop and burlap placemats. Small gold accents add sheen and sophistication, while the pops of bright pink add color and life. To me, this tablescape is a delightful sight in every way, perfect for springtime dining.{found on birdsofafeatherphoto}.

If you’re not into “decorating” the table this spring, consider this strategy of decorating with fresh flowers…and fresh flowers only. The whiteness of the scene’s backdrop makes the flowers the absolute stars of this tablescape, as they should be. A fairly tight color palette is kept to shades of plum-purple, with a singular jolt of daffodil yellow (complementary color). I love how the flowers themselves are ornate and delicate, which actually brings out the chandelier’s curves and style, but everything else is kept simple.{found on dreamywhites}.

Really, nothing says spring like the color green…and nothing sets off green visually like shades of white. This natural-looking tablescape is classic and classy. Circular woven placemats in a chocolate color immediately highlight the round features of the entire setting, including curvy glass stemware and the table itself. Simple earthy elements (e.g., boxwood sprigs, monogrammed eggs, and burlap) add texture and continue the au natural vibe. Clean white tulips in a clean white ceramic pitcher is the perfect finishing touch.{found on loveoffamilyandhome}.

This season, skies are definitely changing from greys to blues, and this table celebrates the transformation! A wide table runner in a printed fabric that’s the same shade as the dishes brings out the power of monochromatic design. Flowering dogwood branches help to break up the bright color a bit while tying in the black accents (which add maturity to the powder blue). Napkin-stuffed glasses mimic the feeling of the chunky white candles, and a simple bowl of eggs lightens and refreshes the entire table.{found onseasideinteriors}.