As I tied this beautiful apron around my waist a few days ago, I couldn’t wait to tell you about this awesome APRON Giveaway, from the Hip Hostess. I’m telling you – this apron is one of the best made that I have seen. It fits any size and I love the edging on the bottom – it’s groovy and hip!
Now you have a chance to win YOUR PICK from a fantastic selection of aprons!
Do you like the one I chose? Pink Sorbet!
Easy question
I’d love to hear if you are a tablecloth or a placemat hostess?
What do you like to use when you set a table for your guests?
Or, maybe you like a bare table!
What am I?
Most of you know me well. I’m a tablecloth gal. I store them hanging in my hall closet. And I love to receive them as gifts, buy them at thrift shops, Good Will, or in the clearance aisle. Yard sales are good too.
Why buy placements when you can buy a tablecloth for $2.99?
Answer and win
Answer by commenting now, and the winner will be announced on Sunday.
If you’d like to mention this lovely GIVEAWAY on your blog, please let me know and your name will go into the drawing TWICE.
Promotion
If you want to order now, because you just can’t wait to see if you won this GIVEAWAY – head on over to the Hip Hostess website and use this promotion code.
HHRE (all caps) for 15% off
Expires 4-30-09
Check out the demi style aprons here
Or the sheath style here
Or sweet petites here
I’m so excited for the winner! You are going to be thrilled with the quality and style of this apron you’re about to WIN!
(Thank you Hip Hostess for being a contributing advertiser on Reluctant Entertainer.)






Hi, I'm Sandy. Five years ago I stocked up on beautiful glasses from the Dollar Store. As I started writing about dinner parties, I realized that this “icon” portrays a great message. It says that dinner parties are attainable, they are affordable, and that they can be beautiful even when on a budget. 























I’m definitely a table cloth girl. =)
[Reply]
I’m a table cloth kind of person… washing one thing compared to 4 or more is so much easier! Thanks for the giveaway.
[Reply]
Ooh, love that apron! I’m a tablecloth gal myself. I don’t mind placemats for summer eating outdoors, though.
[Reply]
I love tablecloths…and placemats…and a bare table. Depends on my mood when I start my “tablescape” (sorry, overused word). Cute apron!
[Reply]
Black ala Mode would be my first choice. They are beautiful, though. I am definately a tablecloth kind of girl.
[Reply]
I use both!
Kitchen table – a table cloth and placemats…
My kitchen table is old and the top needs to be refinished so I keep it covered.
Dining room – placemats only because it is new and the finish is beautiful.
Cute & flirty apron!
Melanie@Bella~Mella
[Reply]
Very Cute aprons! I’m a tablecloth kinda girl but I make children’s placemats. I love your blog! Great gardening tips.
[Reply]
I end up using placemats more often but really enjoy the look of a table fully dressed.
[Reply]
Tablecloth or bare table, depending on how casual I”m going. Thanks for this giveaway; the aprons are adorable!
[Reply]
Hi, S!
I’m either a bare table kind girl (*gasp*) or tablecloth. For some reason, I never got into placemats… they seem kind of unwieldy on a table… keep things from staying level on a small table.
Anyhoooo… I didn’t get a $3 tablecloth, but I did buy a $20 tablecloth for Easter from HomeGoods that looks very much like one I saw Williams Sonoma for much more. I consider that a score.
Emily Dykstra
[Reply]
I would say I am a table cloth person for special occasions. With lots of little ones, it’s easiest to eat on a bare table for clean up reasons than to add more laundry every meal to my ever growing pile. I do like to use them for holidays and special meals. I love the aprons!
[Reply]
I use both, but tend to lean towards placemats. Bare table for a casual event! Cute apron!!
[Reply]
I LOVE the apron and would love to win one of my own!!!
I prefer tablecloths. I recently inherited several white tablecloths and napkins that belonged to my grandmother. They are beautiful! I also have a dark red linen one that I used for Christmas. Totally agree about the cost of tablecloths compared to placemats.
Have a great day!
[Reply]
Table cloths for me! Such a nice clean look.
[Reply]
I love your apron.
As for when I entertain, it depends upon the formality of the event. If it is family and or a few close friends I usually just use placemats. I have a tablecloth always on the kitchen table. I know I am just a person who uses both though I guess.
[Reply]
I like placemats best, but do love me some tablecloths, too!
[Reply]
I like placemats because I have a beautiful carved pedestal table with a glass tabletop. I don’t want to cover that up!
[Reply]
I just made a post about your give away so I could be entered twice. I really want to win:) I just visited the Hip Hostess- too cute!
[Reply]
Tablecloths, I’d have to say it’s an addiction of mine too!
On my kitchen or patio tables, it’s placemats…. and on the dining room table it’s tablecloths always
[Reply]
I like them both! haha…perhaps it is my indecisive mature…or the sad shape of my table top (lol), but I typically will use both a table cloth and place mates. overkill perhaps…ha
[Reply]
What a loveley apron! Love the color and too love the look/fit. I too am a tablecloth lady however if there are only a few of us at our big table (and I do mean big. 112×47 to be exact) I will use placemat to make it look more personal. Thank you for your wonderful blog and the inspiration that you give us.
Blessings
Roxanne
[Reply]
oooo tableclothes. Hands down. I tend to use the placemats for lining shelves and in place of doilies. For some reason placemats just dont get traditional use around here.
[Reply]
I love the apron. Toooooooo cute.
I am a tablecloth girl. Tablecloths bring about a peace to your home.
I already have your blog listed as one that I follow on my blogsite, but I would love to say something about the giveaway. Everyone loves aprons!
[Reply]
So silly…I prefer the look of a tablecloth but,..I use placemats. Ha!
[Reply]
I LOVE Table cloths!!
[Reply]
You are so pretty in pink!! What a fun apron and i love the pictures!!!
I am both..sometimes tablecloth and sometimes place mat but mostly tablecloth!
Have a great day!
sandy toe
[Reply]
I used to love placemats – back about 19 years ago when I was first marrited. Over the years that has evolved and plus we have a round table now so tablecloths just work much better and look nicer on a round table.
[Reply]
Totally tablecloths! In the dining room, anyway. Bare table in the kitchen. Much easier to keep it clean on a daily basis. Very cute aprons. Love the sweet petites, too.
[Reply]
I’ve been really bad at making a beautiful table for guests. You have inspired me to be on the look out for great table clothes. Can’t wait for garage sale season to start!
Karen
huskers@cottagejoy.com
[Reply]
I’ve always been a table cloth girl. Placemats seem so…well…what is the word I’m looking for…possibly odd. Thanks for all your hospitality tips.
Many blessings,
The Little Blue Bungalow
[Reply]
I am a tablecloth lady! I love a beautiful tablecloth!
[Reply]
Bare table for me! A few years ago, after saving and saving, we bought our dream table. It is, of course, modern in style… steel and glass, oh what a shame it would be to cover it with a cloth!
[Reply]
I am neither. Does that make me a bad hostess. LOL! I prefer to wash down the table and skip the laundry. However, for Christmas get-together I do put out a table cloth. I love the aprons.
Smiles!
[Reply]
It depends on the situation, placemats seem more casual but a tablecloth makes it elegant. Usually, I use a tablecloth.
[Reply]
Definitely tablecloth:)
[Reply]
I love tablecloths for anchoring the table with color, but then I also use placemats for pop and/or contrast. BTW, I also use both options because I have 2 messy children, and I’m just protecting my table!
Love the apron! Does she make little girl’s sizes? (I’ll go check…)
[Reply]
Usually around holidays I have a cute table cloth, but most of the time I like to go bare with some nice vintage pot holders.
[Reply]
totally depends on the occasion….sometimes I do a tablecloth, sometimes placemats and sometimes a bare table….
[Reply]
I have a few tablecloths I use at different times, but have been using placemats in the recent weeks. I usually go with a theme or whatever I “feel” at the time to make it fun and memorable. If you have time, go read about my St. Patty’s Day dinner. It was fun and something the family will remember for years to come. I like being memorable.
I looked at the “Hip Hostess” site and fell in love with the “Black Ala Mode” sheath style apron. They are all so cute and girly!
[Reply]
I like tablecloths~~
[Reply]
I’m definitely a tablecloth girl. I also like placemats but, not as much. I love your apron! I hope I win because I don’t have an apron and would really love one! Thanks for the chance.
[Reply]
I linked you on my site, too!
[Reply]
Always a tablecloth…and often my tablecloth is nothing more than a $2.99 sheet from wal-mart! I am an apron girl too…would love to have one of these!
[Reply]
What a coincidence! I was at their website just a few hours ago drooling over their Black a la Mode.
As for the table, I’m a tablecloth girl myself, and I just love ‘accessorizing’ a solid table cloth with a lacy or patterned runner.
[Reply]
Please enter me in your drawing a second time as I just posted and linked this on my blog!!!!
This is how much I really, really would love to win an apron from you!!!
Thanks!
[Reply]
I’m a place mat girl
Thanks for hosting this fun giveaway!
~Emily Joy
[Reply]
Tablecloths all the way!
[Reply]
Like the way tablecloths look, but definitely a placemat girl. So much easier to throw one in the wash or replace it if needed in a hurry.
[Reply]
I like BOTH!!!!!!! OMGosh, that apron is so darling! I love it
[Reply]
I Love to entertain (big puffy heart love) however my table is the starter table my husband and I purchased when we were married (15 years ago) and needs a beautiful table cloth to add some class. So I am a table cloth person. I have been known to add placemats on top or table runners on top of the table cloth for added flair!
Love the apron! Thanks for the link to her site.
[Reply]
Your apron is adorable! I use placemats but would love to use table cloths more!
[Reply]
I am more a bare table person, but if anything I use tablecloths!!!
[Reply]
I’m a placemat girl, but only because my table is a large square and I’ve had trouble finding table cloths that aren’t super expensive!!!
[Reply]
Also added a blog post about your giveaway.
[Reply]
I am a table cloth girl… get very excited when I receive a new one.
[Reply]
I’m more of a placemat girl because I can pick ones that coordinate but are different colors or patterns!
[Reply]
Ooooh… I’m recently obsessed w/ aprons. I’ve been looking into making them as gifts for people. The one you got is super cute.
In answer to your question, I am a tablecloth gal. Placemats are too much to keep up with (imho). But, in a way I do both. We have (non cute) plastic place mats for the girls b/c otherwise I’d have to put out a new table cloth w/every meal.
What a sweet and generous giveaway, though!!! …here’s hoping!
[Reply]
when we are having a “fancy” meal with our family we will use a tablecloth. For a little jazz we will add plastic placemats. But for everyday I love the bare table-that way I can just wipe down one thing-less work so I can spend it where I need to be most- with the family!
[Reply]
I’m a placemat girl. I would LOVE to be a tablecloth girl, but I simply don’t have but one tablecloth {sniff, sniff}.
I can convert someday!!
[Reply]
Generally Table Cloth…sometimes both? and sometimes none? I guess whatever mood im in
[Reply]
I’m a bare table gal. Mostly because we have little ones and those we invite over do as well. it’s easier to clean up when your toddler spills something.
[Reply]
Definitely a placemat girl, seeing that I only use tablecloths for showers that I give. I’m not sure why, but I think it may be my weird square table I own.
I need to venture into the world of table cloths. Any ideas for a square table?
[Reply]
I used to be a place mat hostess, but now with a special needs child it is easier to go with a bare table so nothing gets accidentally pulled off.
Thanks!
Dawn S.
[Reply]
I’m a tablecloth gal!
[Reply]
I have some placemats, but I am a tablecloth kind of girl. I love buying new and old. Cute apron.
[Reply]
Oh, I love tablecloths in colors to match the season. I also love to use flowers. I am not much into placemats and napkin rings and the such.
I announced your giveaway on my blog, too! Thank you for the chance to win one of these lovely aprons. I like the pink one, it matches my headband I use to keep my hair back while I cook.
[Reply]
I have to admit I love to layer both! I learned that with a very very messy 9 year old stepdaughter who refused to use any manners at all when she visited that it was far easier on my linens to add a placemat, and I fell in love with the look.
Thanks for the giveaway… I love aprons!!!!
[Reply]
I love the pink apron…very cute! I’m more of a placemat gal, but I think that’s only because I don’t have any tablecloths.
Maybe I should check them out and give them a try!
[Reply]
Placemats for me. I would love to win. What a beautiful apron.
[Reply]
I love your apron. At the moment I’m neither a tablecloth or placemats…because I have neither. But…I would be a tablecloth person…but I do love placemats, so it would just depend on my mood!!
[Reply]
How fun!! I’d love a new apron!
I’m a bare table girl…but would love to become a tablecloth girl. And a cloth napkin girl.
Thanks!!
[Reply]
If I use either, it’s usually a tablecloth. I really like the wood on my table, so I don’t usually cover it up though.
[Reply]
I love your blog and the apron! I actually gave aprons as customized gifts this past Christmas… A fun craft for me and a personalized gift for them – even the guys!
I’m a placemat girl for now… I have a very squirmy/busy daughter and she messes too much with table cloths…
[Reply]
Definitely tablecloths, though with kids, I sometimes put the placemats on top of the tablecloth. LOVE the apron!!
[Reply]
For guests I usually use a table cloth. For everyday, we use placemats. It’s much easier to toss a placemat in the wash when a kid gets it dirty.
[Reply]
I like them both! Right now I have a tiny table, so I use runners or place mats, but I can’t wait to use table cloths when I get a bigger table!
[Reply]
I usually like tablecloths, but sometimes I like to layer placemats over tablecloths.
I mentioned this giveaway on my blog too!
[Reply]
May Canadians enter? I’m a tablecloth hostess.
[Reply]
I am a tablecloth girl, I do have a lovely set of 8 cream placemats that I received as a gift that I use for the daily meals (breaky & lunch) but usually at dinner we use a tablecloth.
[Reply]
I use tablecloths more when hosting a nice party.
What a cute apron!
[Reply]
I’m afraid I have a pretty serious collection of both! LOL
[Reply]
When it’s just us during the week then we tend to use placemats, such as Spiderman or butterflies for the kids. When we have guests I use tablecloths.
[Reply]
I like both. Our table is 54 inches wide so standard cloths don’t fit. I even have some beautiful plastic/wipe clean placemats I use. There are many ways to set an attractive table—and it’s really who’s on the chairs rather than what’s on the table that matters. Save the apron for someone that can wear that pretty pink—it’s not for redheads.
Blessings on you Sandy!
[Reply]
I’m a tablecloth girl! Love the black ala mode apron!
[Reply]
I have a farm table and I love the finish, so I am a placemat girl.
[Reply]
TABLECLOTHES for this women when I entertain others, but placemats for the family at the kitchen table. Being that we remove them and have a beautiful centerpiece on the wood table for the rest of the day.
[Reply]
I love both for different reasons. I use plain (solid) quilted placemats for casual meals. I have yellow, navy, orange or red and I can mix all kinds of napkins with them. I also love table cloths for more elegant meals or more formal settings. I’m DYING to get my hands on an older Williams and Sonoma table cloth but can NOT find it anywhere. Sad sad sad.
And I love Black A La Mode apron. SOOOO stinking cute!!!
[Reply]
I love the apron,,, I am a tablecloth girl . I am glad to have found your blog and ned to go shop in your shop now,,, marcie
[Reply]
i have a small table, and so I find myself being more of a placematt girl!
[Reply]
Oh I must win this!!!
I am a bare table person. I do not know why… I think it is because I like the finish of my table and don’t like to cover it up!
[Reply]
I love both but if I had to choose I would say placemats cause I love the look of my beautiful wooden table. I also love thos aprons and maybe it would actually get me to wear one in the kitchen. Bad girl that I am.
[Reply]
I go with pretty plastic placemats for everyday and tablecloths for company.
sunflowergal at btsskynet.net
[Reply]
I’m a tablecloth kind of gal. I always like seeing your tablescapes and how pretty you put things together. I think it was one of the things that turned me on to your website.
Thanks for the chance to win!
Gabrielle
gabe at aaronblake dot com
[Reply]
I love tablecloths for any occasion or none at all. I have a few placemats, but I like the clean look a tablecloth gives to a table setting.
I also am beginning to appreciate aprons, and that one is gorgeous!
[Reply]
I like tablecloths. They are much easier to clean!
Thanks!
lexbyam at gmail dot com
[Reply]
I like both but prefer table cloths….I also like to do place mats on the cloths….I dont own many table cloths though..
[Reply]
I love tablecloths…probably because I hate the color/state of my table!
[Reply]
I like table clothes for sure. We use placemats too though, but I just think the table cloth really pulls the table together more.
[Reply]
I am a tablecloth girl, but usually it is bare because my kids can never to keep it clean! uggh
[Reply]
I use tablecloths for “fancy” parties, but placemats when just having people over for dinner. I would love one of those aprons!
[Reply]
I love tablecloths, but honestly, I have vinyl placemats that we use most everyday. They’re just easier to keep clean with a big family.
[Reply]
I love tablecloths. But, when my son was young I used placemats. They were much easier to clean and I bought educational ones.
[Reply]
Tablecloths for everyday dinners & for parties. Placemats when it's just one or two of us.
[Reply]
Ooh, I LOVE a pretty apron. But on my table….I go bare. I’m a casual kind of gal. I like pretty plates and serving dishes though.
[Reply]
Only vintage tablecloths for me. I do like a bare table too, if it is a pretty table.
[Reply]
I am a bare table girl myself for daily dining and casual get-togethers, but for holidays I break out the tablecloth
[Reply]
I’m a fan of tablecloths… they cover an ugly table so nicely! However, I stopped using them when my toddlers would grab and pull everything off the table!
orangetriangle2@yahoo.com
[Reply]
I’m mostly a tablecloth kinda gal…….
Ursula at uswood1@optonline.net
[Reply]
That apron is beautiful! I love tablecloths, however with a 2 year old we usually use placemats right now.
[Reply]
If I use either I use tablecloth’s. Why? Well, b/c the last time I used placemats one of my kiddo’s kept trying to put his cup on his placemat which tipped it over and made a huge mess!!! So yeah, tablecloth’s work best for my family! However, I honestly use a bare table!!!
[Reply]
Oh I just got the CUTEST placemates at Cameron’s Home Furnishings. I will post a pic on my blog today and show you my table. I love them. I am usually a table cloth kind of girl to cover up some imperfections on my table, but these were too cute to pass up!
Such a cute Apron too! WOW!
[Reply]
tablecloth girl and sometimes i layer them
[Reply]
I use placemats, but I would like to use tablecloths more. I love seeing your beautiful tablecloths in your pictures!
Caroline
kalugin4@sbcglobal.net
[Reply]
tablecloth girl –sometimes i layer them
[Reply]
I am actually BOTH! I occasionally use tablecloths, and other times I use placemats. Sometimes (when I’m feeling REALLY daring – Ha!) I use BOTH!!!
What a GREAT giveaway….thanks so much for sharing!
Jamie
[Reply]
when I am hosting I am a placemat girl, but everyday — I am a tablecloth girl.
I know odd.
[Reply]
I am not a natural entertainer, but I would love to become one!
[Reply]
I must say I am a place mat girl. I just like the way it looks. For me, a table cloth is too formal for my style.
[Reply]
Usually a neutral table cloth with a colored runner appropo to the occasion. Our table is our home school table, too, so it’s pretty beat up.
[Reply]
Well, I think I’m more of a tablecloth person, but I like a bare table as well. Right now I’d go for plastic and waterproof with the three little people in my house! But I love those aprons too! How fun!
[Reply]
Love a pretty tablecloth, but since I have two young boys I usually add a plastic placemat to their spot! Love the pink apron!
[Reply]
Day to day, we use placemats. If I am having company over and I realllly like them, I try to make things special by using a tablecloth and cloth napkins. Those aprons are TDF!! I am so buying one if I don’t win!!
[Reply]
I like table clothes and placemats, but a cloth is just more my style.
Thanks for the chance! I do love a good apron.
http://www.xanga.com/crafttealady
http://www.crafttealady.etsy.com
[Reply]
I just added the giveaway to my blog
Love the Black ala mode and Espresso swirl…too cute! They might further inspire me to cook! lol
[Reply]
I love table cloths , but seem to have more place mats. I need to keep my eyes open for more table cloths! Thanks for the giveaway!
mjsmith723 at gmail.com
[Reply]
I go in phases, but right now I generally use neither. I have an old farm table in my kitchen and I love its appeal without any covering. Beautiful giveaway.
[Reply]
Tablecloths are by far easier but I do like to use a couple of different coordinating placemats at the same time to change things up a bit.
[Reply]
Nice apron! I like to use tablecloths. Seems like it’s easier to just take one thing outside to shake than take several things to the sink or trash can to dump crumbs from. You always have neat giveaways! tsjjcoy@yahoo.com
[Reply]
I’m a tablecloth girl at heart but we always have a bare table. I think now that the kids are getting older tablecloths won’t seem so difficult
Love that apron!!!!
[Reply]
I use placemats, 4 little ones at my house like to pull off tablecloths!
[Reply]
Tablecloths, my dog tries to steal the placemats. I do have lots of place mats but they seldom are used.
[Reply]
I love a beautiful table cloth.
[Reply]
I am a tablecloth gal!
[Reply]
I like a bare table:) love to see the wood-and please add me in:)
[Reply]
I prefer tablecloths. And I love the pink sorbet apron. If it’s pink, it’s for me.
[Reply]
I have a tablecloth that I have my guests sign and then embroider their signature later. Very fun tradition that my kids all love!
[Reply]
I have nothing pink in my closet or in my house. I need this.
[Reply]
I always thought myself a place-mat sort of gal until I really started entertaining. Seriously, TABLECLOTHS are great and more versatile. You can use several tablecloths at once. They are great even for my four kids. Tie them around dining room chairs for a more festive look in whatever the color the celebration calls for. We recently draped a mesh flower tablecloth to create the entrance to Pixie Hollow for a Tinkerbell party. And when it comes to family heirlooms, those vintage tablecloths are crazy good and still very relevant!
[Reply]
I’ve genrerally been a place mat girl…because that is mostly what I have. But after hearing all the arguments in favor of tablecloths, I’m thinking about switching!
[Reply]
Placemat girl here – like to show off the beautiful wood of the table too.
[Reply]
Oh I’m a placemat girl because I like to show off my table too! LOL
Thanks for the giveaway!
~TidyMom
[Reply]
I am definetly a tablecloth gal
dctm at bellsouth dot net
[Reply]
place mat girl but after i change the paint in my dining room i’m changing over to a table cloth girl! :O)
[Reply]
I prefer tablecloths! I don’t use them much because I have children who are tiny and tend to pull on them, but I love them just the same!!
Thanks for entering me into the contest! Your apron is adorable.
[Reply]
You know? I switch it up. I love my table (it has the prettiest surface I’ve ever seen for a table) so for some things, I use placemats. If there is going to be a lot of drippy/sticky food I use a tablecloth – so much easier to grab it all up, shake it out and toss it in the washer.
[Reply]
I am most certainly a table cloth kinda gal. I love place mats for clean up convenience… but it always seems that I have one more person than placemats! sigh… Well, good thing I have a nice slection of table cloths to satisfy my desire for something a bit fancy! Thanks for all the wonderful posts!!!!
Emily in WA
[Reply]
i have to say it depends on the event– i’m right there with you though, I LOVE VINTAGE tablecloths found from Goodwill or resale. I also LOVE that apron– i’ll be sure to post it on my blog
[Reply]
Tablecloth for me.
Very cute apron!
[Reply]
sandy….I couldn’t find your e-mail address, and my computer doesn’t let me click on your e-mail and use my online account….so I’m here telling you I posted about this on my blog…I’m not trying to scam an extra entry (C: LOL!!
[Reply]
Hi there Sandy!
Well I use both tablecloths and placemats. A lot of times I use them together to punch up the color scheme or to add texture. This is especially true of really nice dinners that I host. I never leave my table bare and for casual settings and with family I always reach for placemats. I love to mix and match table linens. I too love to find great deals at thrift stores or Goodwill. I love vintage pieces and natural linen is my favorite during warmer months. I do hang my placemats and tablecloths in my coat closet in the hall after I have ironed them. They are nice and tidy when I need to grab one and go! I’ll mention this on my blog. Love the Pink sherbet!
[Reply]
I have five littles so a bare table keeps the laundry pile manageable. (It also keeps everything actually ON the table since my crawler would probably love to pull on the tablecloth.)
Cute, cute, cute apron!
Many Blessings,
Holly@aiminghigh
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/aiminghigh
[Reply]
I have more tablecloths, but I would have to say that I’m a “bare” table type of girl!
I posted about your giveaway on my blog! You will notice, I really need to spruce up my cooking wardrobe!
[Reply]
I usually leave my table bare…except Christmas! LOVE the apron!!!
rhondamm@windstream.net
[Reply]
I am one of those horrible people who keeps both my tables set at all times! Even with 2 little boys running around, I love how a table looks with pretty plates, chargers, placemats and centerpieces. I run my good dishes in the dishwasher on rinse only before company comes over to get any dust that has settled on the main dining table. We use our breakfast nook for most of our meals and I have everyday dishes since my 3 and 4 year old are in charge of setting the table. Don’t trust them with my ‘pretty’ pieces, yet.
~Amanda
[Reply]
When my kids were smaller, I was more of a placemat girl…now I love tablecloths!
[Reply]
I like to use placemats so that you can mix coordinating patterns or have a table full of different solid colors!
[Reply]
Tablecloth here. My toddler wouldn’t allow placemats!
[Reply]
Absolutely a table cloth kind-of girl:) I own a few fun ones… but hands down my favorite is a crisp clean white. Thanks for the fun giveaway!!
[Reply]
I entered once already….but I just put your link on my blog. Please enter me twice!!! I hope I win. These are adorable!!!!!
http://www.fulllifesimpleheart.blogspot.com
[Reply]
For everyday dinners, I prefer tablecloths. But for more fancy dinners, I do a tablecloth.
[Reply]
Everyday with my family I have placemats. My husband is handicapped and needs to have a new placemat after every meal. When we entertain I pullout the tablecloth and just put a placemat on top of his area. It works and is fun!
[Reply]
Placemats…I love how they accent the black-finished farmhouse table that we have. I adore everything from a black and white gingham to an Amy Butler-esque floral.
Beautiful giveaway, thanks Sandy!
[Reply]
Never ever would I go bare table. I tend to use placemats for a casual meal and tablecloths for more formal BUT I have been known to use both to get the look I want.
[Reply]
My table is so huge that I need 2 cloths to cover it. So I guess I’d function best as a placemat girl until I can fund specially-made cloths just for me!
[Reply]
I love tablecloths! My lacy white vintage tablecloth is my favorite–followed closely by my strawberry pink one with white fringe!
I don’t want to be entered in the drawing–my apron collection outdoes my tablecloth collection!
[Reply]
It depends on the occasion – I like to set my table differently depending on the meal I’m serving.
MutheringHeights@gmail.com
[Reply]
Growing up, my mom always put a table cloth on the table for meal time and it made us all feel so special. She also used cloth napkins. So as you can guess…I am a table cloth girl! I’m hoping to bring my kids the same little piece of heaven my mom gave me!
[Reply]
Ooh, I’m a tablecoth girl too!
[Reply]
I have to use tablecloths to cover up all the stratches on my table!
[Reply]
Hi S, i love table cloths on my formal table and childrens place mats on the my breakfast table. Check out Nell Hills for great table scapes for adult and kids parties. They range from playful to formal. I LOVE the apron and wouldn’t have any other color than PINK. You go Hip Entertainer. You’re such an inspiration!!
[Reply]
Ah, count me in, I am a table cloth girl (with a love for Napisan to get stains out)
Sharon
[Reply]
I love tablecloths, but I feel like I cannot keep them clean with 2 little kids. So we use placemats, including with guests. Sweet giveaway!
[Reply]
I like the look of a table cloth but I’m always put off by the maintenance (stain removal and washing) with 2 young children. So usually it’s a bare table at our house because it’s easy to wipe off!
[Reply]
I love tableclothes! Much easier to wash.
[Reply]
I love tablecloths. I wish I had more, but I’ve got a start with 2, so I will keep building.
[Reply]
I appreciate the beauty of a tablecloth. For practical reasons though I’m currently using placemats because of the kids.
Thanks for entering me into this giveaway. The apron is stunning!
Sharon
slw_kerr@yahoo.com
[Reply]
Sandy,
Love the apron. I have two, a plain turquoise blue one that I just love and a new one that I got on clearance at Target for $3.something. It’s orange with white vines and birds. It might become my new favorite, unless I win this drawing!
My dining room table is covered with a glass top. I put a lovely white anaglypta wallpaper under the glass so I like the beauty of that to show. Therefore, I use placemats.
Love your blog.
Naomi Lynn
naomilynn@mchsi.com
[Reply]
I would love to have a tablecloth for special meals, but our table is really big {made by sweet husband – Remodeling Guy} so I can’t find one to fit it. But, I usually don’t use anything on the table…just our colorful plates. They look wonderful on the light maple. Thanks for the giveaway. The apron is toooooo pretty!
~Kim
[Reply]
I generally use a bare table. But I LOVE table cloths. They are easier to squeeze more people around the table than overlapping place mats. Would you believe I only have one? And those aprons are adorable!!!
[Reply]
I prefer table cloths, but I don’t use them often with the kids.
[Reply]
I like a naked table…Our table is wood with a glass covered top. I love the wood “background” under my place settings and centerpieces. The glass is also super easy to clean up when all is done. Love that apron. Great pick. Laura
[Reply]
When we entertain I use placemats. The last time I used a tablecloth, my father-in-law spilled a ton of soy sauce on it and felt really bad about it
Not that I really minded. I don’t even know where my tablecloths are now! I love that apron. I’ve been looking for the perfect one, and hopefully this is it!!!
[Reply]
I am both…I have a cream tablecloth w/my americana star cloth placemats on it…but I can do either/or..I love the apron…beautiful color…thank you…rebeccae69@hotmail.com
[Reply]
Look at that gorgeous face!
I’m a placemat girl – only because we invested in a gorgeous cherry table and I just hate to cover it up. I use the table cloth at times when I’m going to use my table as a hostess station and eat elsewhere (outside, in another room, etc.) but my beautiful, shiny wood table makes me so happy!
[Reply]
Oh, a placemat girl. My table is SO BEAUTIFUL that I hate to even cover it with a Placemat!!!
[Reply]
Love that apron!! Well, I guess most of the time it’s placemats, but on special occations, it’s tablecloths. Oh and it’s tablecloths when we eat outside too.
[Reply]
I tend to be bit of both, even at the same time
[Reply]
Tablecloth!!!! Getting them at yard sales and thrift stores throughout the year!!
[Reply]
For everyday use we use placemats. For entertaining – table cloths.
[Reply]
Right now I lean towards placemat because we have little ones and I am terribly afraid that the whole table setting would come off if I used a table cloth. Quite often we doa bare table also.
[Reply]
The aprons are VERY cute! I couldn’t wait or take my chances at not winning – I ordered one today!!
I’m a placemate gal. We had our dining room table custom built and I love the wood grain look and I want to show it’s beauty. I just can’t seem to cover it up when we have guests.
[Reply]
Both! I keep a table cloth on ALL the time because my table top need to be refinished (it was my grandma’s). And then I put placemats on top of it at meal time because my small children are quite messy.
[Reply]
Table cloth all the way. Like you, I collect them from various places.
Ever since our GD was a toddler it has been her job to pick the table cloth and help set the table when they join us for dinner. We’ve had some interesting and colorful table settings over the years.
Darla
[Reply]
I like them both – it really depends on the look I’m going for. I like layering and I love to use different things … a paper tablecloth for kids to color on, tiles as placemats … I love variety. Gorgeous apron – hope I win!!
[Reply]
It depends on the occaision. Bigger group or bigger reason gets a tablecloth, because it seems fancier and more appropriate. Casual occaision, smaller group gets placemats. For me, it’s also a consideration of laundry – less space is taken up in the washing machine and dryer with placemats than a full tablecloth.
[Reply]
I am a table cloth gal.
lynn
keithlynn6@msn.com
[Reply]
Table cloth, but I admit I don’t do it very often. We are so casual we usually eat on a bare table and right out of the pans I cook in! :O (Not with company though hehe)
LOVE the Hip Hostess aprons – wow – would love to win that Espresso Swirl – to die for!
[Reply]
OOoh I love the Cherry Me Sheath style apron!
As for you’re question, I like to use placemats. Once in a while I’ll use a table cloth, but table cloths drive me crazy if it’s not exactly even on all sides, so they tend to annoy me more than anything… lol. So placemats are my table “covering” of choice
[Reply]
Posted this on twitter for you!
http://twitter.com/latrischler
[Reply]
I am definatly a place mat girl. I really dont like tablecloths personally. I love having many place mats that can be interchangeable. i would love to be apaart of your giveaway. Please put me in the drawing.
Thanks.
[Reply]
I am also a tablecloth person. The table just looks complete and beautiful with a fresh tablecloth. Love the apron, too.
[Reply]
What a fun giveaway! I prefer tablecloths, largely to not having a good spot to store placemats. Tablecloths get hung on a high hook in our little coat closet.
[Reply]
I’m a bare gal…. bare table that is! Only cause we have a glass top table and I don’t want to surprise people with a table cloth and they set down a glass too hard
and 4 place mats do NOT fit on my table w/out overlapping!!
[Reply]
Table cloths here… and cloth napkins too!
[Reply]
I love tablecloths, but I tend to use placemats more often because I have several sets that I really love.
missy
[Reply]
I’m a little bit of both, but I guess I do prefer table cloths.
[Reply]
definitely tablecloth…generally, vintage tablecloths
[Reply]
I use placemats for everyday but for Holiday and more formal dinners it is definitely time for tablecloths.
I store my tablecloths on hangers in the closet where we store out of season clothes.
[Reply]
I can’t say for sure. I love a nice fitting table cloth that doesn’t sit in my guest’s lap! My favorite placemats are from Martha Stewart. They are quilted so when they are washed they puff up in all the right places and look just like a pretty coverlet.
[Reply]
I’ve been a placemat gal but now you have me wondering why! LOL!
Love the apron.
[Reply]
I am a placemat girl – like to change them with the seasons and with kids they are easy to clean. Those aprons are wonderful!!!
[Reply]
Wow there are lots of comments. I love aprons and the one you choose is lovely on you.
When I entertain, I love to use tablecloths. I love the way it looks on the table and it’s easy to just put in the washing machine to clean. I also find they dress up the table even if I am having a casual dinner.
[Reply]
Can you believe, I don't even own an apron, so I guess I need to win one! I normally set my table with just placemats & no tablecloth, but I do like to to pick up these things at yardsales. Happy Spring, Sandy!
[Reply]
I do table cloth the most! Goodwill, huh? Great idea, I’ll check that out.
Becky
pbcronin@comcast.net
[Reply]
I like both…is that allowed? Sometimes I use just one…but then I use both…I like the layered look I guess!
What a fun giveaway! Crossing my fingers!
[Reply]
I’m a table cloth type myself.
cheers,
Blueberry
bristolbayfield@gmail.com
[Reply]
I think tablecloths are beautiful, but don’t use them!?!? I only use placemats that have a holiday theme to them and then I only put them on the dining room table when NOT in use- I dunno, I’m weird like that! What a great giveaway…
[Reply]
I’m a bare table kinda gal with fresh flower centerpiece! Probably because I don’t own any tablecloths….sad I know.
[Reply]
And I love the Black Ala Mode…and I think I like the Demi style…
[Reply]
I definitely love tablecloths, I really like to use two at one time at different angles.
[Reply]
I think tablecloths work better and I wish I had more!
I love the Hip Hostess…I got matching ones for my daughter and myself! The espresso swirl is the next one on my list!
[Reply]
I typically use tablecloths and I store them in my linen closet. On semi-formal occasions I put placemats over the table cloth
Oh, and I linked this contest on my blog here: http://rabidcrafter.blogspot.com/2009/03/is-it-weekend-yet.html
I hope I win. Those aprons are wow!
[Reply]
I prefer tablecloths, but I’ve been known to use both at the same time. The tablecloth keeps the placemats from sliding around, and the placemats keep the tablecloth cleaner longer.
[Reply]
i am a place mat girl!
[Reply]
I am a tablecloth girl.
[Reply]
by the way, i blogged this
http://missysbaskets.blogspot.com/2009/03/giveaways-i-entered-this-week.html
[Reply]
I am a tablecloth person. My table is old and not in great shape and a tablecloth can cover all its imperfections and leaves a clean slate to work with. It is fun to find funky tablecloths or fabric turned table cloth and create a theme dinner with it.
[Reply]
I am a table cloth girl but that is because of an unfortunate incident involving a fondue pot and fire that has forced me to use table cloths until said table can be refinished
[Reply]
Cute apron! I rarely entertain but I do collect vintage tablecloths. Used to use them a lot but haven’t in a while.
[Reply]
I love placemats. I change them for all the seasons.
[Reply]
I’m definitely a tablecloth kind of girl. I inherited my Gram’s linen tableclothes and napkins. I’ve made napkins from cotton for everyday use, also. Yeah, I know, that’s not part of the ‘tablecloth or placemat’ question. Just sayin’. ~grin~ Anyway, the aprons are wonderful!
[Reply]
I blogged about this here
http://katydidandkid.blogspot.com/2009/03/weekend-contest-love-321.html
[Reply]
i am a tablecloth gal!!
[Reply]
adorable apron.
i’m a table cloth kind of girl.
thanks for the giveaway,
djohnson@catcrew.com
[Reply]
I’m definitely a table cloth girl.
The apron is beautiful! Thanks for hosting this giveaway.
~Yvette
yvette@im4christ.org
[Reply]
I’m a tablecloth girl as well. I caught the preference from my mom, although I don’t have near the collection she does.
[Reply]
bare table for just regular family meals… table cloth for guests. I hate to do laundry, so I only pull out the table clothes for parties!
cute aprons!
[Reply]
I absolutely LOVE tablecloths. I even enjoy just “window” shopping in the tablecloth section.
The apron looks amazing.
Wendy
richshelpmate @ yahoo dot com
[Reply]
Oh, I’ve been a placemat gal but I do believe I may be seeing the error of my ways!
[Reply]
I use tablecloths more often than placemats. Sometimes, I use both at the same time. I typically do this if we are entertaining children to protect the nice dining table. It looks nice and makes me feel better. Love the adorable apron!
[Reply]
Both. When I can, for holidays especially, I put both place mats and a table cloth. Though, for a romantic dinner…just hubby and I…definetly a table cloth…no place mats.
[Reply]
I like the look of tablecloths but I don’t like ironing them! For day-to-day with my family we have a bare table, but when I entertain I do use a tablecloth unless we’re going really casual, in which case out come the placemats.
[Reply]
My good dining table was made by my Father in law as a wedding present. It is made of Queensland Silky Oak (north eastern part of of Australia) and just too gorgeous to cover with anything but plates of good food. On our regular dining table we always use table cloths. The table is glass top and extends when guests come over. Thankfully my Mother in law has made us several table cloths to use (and she covered the good dining chairs that my Father law also made).
The aprons are divine.
Thanks
Julie in Sydney, Australia
[Reply]
It depends on the day. I like the look of placemats for everyday. But there’s nothing like a well laid table with a tablecloth.
mom2riandkayl at lycos dot com
[Reply]
I like both table cloths & place mats. It just depends on my mood! Adorable apron!
[Reply]
tablecloth all the way
[Reply]
I love table cloths. and I REALLY love that apron!! I am obsessed with aprons!!
[Reply]
Place mats all the way! LOOOOve the apron!
[Reply]
I’m a placemat girl because my mom was!
[Reply]
I am a placemat gal. I like the way my table looks so pretty all decorated and I hate to cover up the pretty finish of the wood.
[Reply]
I think tablecloths are beautiful but Im a place mat girl. I seem to always get caught up in the table cloths or manage to yank them around!
[Reply]
Love the apron! I used both but find that I use placemats more!
[Reply]
Usually a tablecloth but I love placemats, too! Yes, tablecloths are definitely easier and more elegant. Thanks for the chance to win a great apron!
[Reply]
I am a placemat girl – love ‘em!
I would love to enter!
charles and sara at hotmail dot com
[Reply]
I’m a tablecloth girl…and I love hip hostess aprons!!!!
Catherine
cmmorin@charter.net
[Reply]
I am definately a tablecloth girl too! I don’t have as many as I should but I love them! I love the Espresso Swirl Apron! Anything coffee and brown!!!!
[Reply]
I like table cloths but I use on a regular basis placemats.
gahome2mom(at)gmail(d)com
[Reply]
oh wow I love that apron. And I’m a tablecloth girl for sure I love them.
julie
[Reply]
First off… what a lovely apron!
As for the question. I’m much like you. A lovely table cloth set with china is something charming to present to your guests!
[Reply]
Table cloths… although when I have my whole family I use placemats on wicker trays.
I love that apron!
[Reply]
I use both at the same time. I’m always looking for good deals on them. I just bought 8 cloth placemats in a peach floral at 99cents each. I was happy!!! I love the apron.
[Reply]
I am a bare table gal for guests, and a placemat gal for family dinner. However, I do have one fancy set with tablecloth, placemats and napkins…
[Reply]
I like bare tables unless we have a dinner party, then I pullout one of my few table clothes that I really love. When my daughter sees it coming out, she knows we are having a “fancy” dinner
yzgirl4[at]verizon[dot]net
[Reply]
I’m a tablecloth gal!!
sam94son05@sbcglobal.net
[Reply]
Definitely a tablecloth gal. I have many. I buy them used, flea markets, where ever.
knittingmomof3 (AT)gmail(DOT) com
[Reply]
i use both
[Reply]
I’m a placemat lover–they say to me, “Here’s a special spot for just you, here at my table.”
[Reply]
Oh my, they are ALL beautiful! I love color so would probably choose “Cherry Me” but it wasn’t an easy decision to make. I love how she makes mommy and me versions too!
For company, I prefer table cloths. They can add just the right foundation to any theme.
BTW, I love your blog. I am hoping to start a girls group soon!
[Reply]
I enjoy tablecloths, especially vintage ones! I usually set the basic tableware, mix up the dishes, try to have vintage candlesticks or a low bowl with flowers or vintage hankies. Sometimes I use a green depression glass bowl with a vintage towel to hold the rolls.
Marion
[Reply]
I am definitely a table cloth gal… especially love vintage ones.
[Reply]
Tablecloths for sure! That way I have a unifying color to play off of while finishing my decorating!
Hope it isn’t too late to enter!
Blessings,
Nancy
dsmith@farmwagon.com
[Reply]
I’m tablecloth! I’ve got 8 matching machine washable (non-ironing) gold ones, rectangles, circles, oblong, that fit all my tables. For me, it’s all about the accessories!
carols@wideopenwest.com
[Reply]
I loooove tablecoths; however, at present, we use some cute quilted scalloped leopard placemats.
[Reply]
When setting the table for guests I usually use a table cloth with a plastic table cloth underneath. I do this to protect my wood table from spills and any standing water I may not see at the time.
I would love to enter to win one of your fabulous aprons. I need one!
[Reply]
Love the apron! And I’m definitely a tablecloth girl! (Although I sure do need a new one!)
[Reply]
I’m a placemat gal – maybe just the thought of getting a stain out – it seems simpler will the smaller piece of fabric! I enjoy a cute table cloth now and then too!
[Reply]
I like tableclothes b/c clean up is a breeze.
[Reply]
I’m a placemat girl = I love the wood from my table to show through.
[Reply]
Im both! when you use a tablecloth you can squeeze more people around the table and my table surface is pretty ugly so that takes care of that..but in the Dining room, I sometimes like to use place mats so we can see the lovely wood grain it has. love love hte apron!
[Reply]
i’m kind of in the middle…i like runners! either one down the centre length wise, or several widthwise across the table, forming ‘placemats’ for facing guests! what does that make me? would love an apron, either way….
lauraveronicaelaine@yahoo.ca
[Reply]