Top Notch Tabletop Challenge "Setting the Standard: Spring 2025"
- Cris Clifford
- Mar 23
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 31
The Top Notch Tabletop Challenge "Setting the Standard: Spring 2025" at the Palm Beach Boat Show was a dazzling showcase of creativity and elegance, featuring 21 crew members across eight vessels, each presenting uniquely themed tablescapes. From whimsical gardens to vibrant beach parties, the event was a testament to the dedication and artistry of yacht stewardesses and crew.
In order of size, starting with the smallest vessel participating:
M/Y Maverick 130'7 / 39.8m Admiral Yachts |
Chief Stewardess Kate Von Holdt and Ana Sirvent evoked Mediterranean charm with a lemon-themed tablescape. Each setting featured artisanal crockery paired with casual flatware and soft cotton white napkins across the dinner plate, under the bowl. Wooden saucers added rusticity, while a trio of runners in burlap, olive, and yellow introduced texture and color. Flower vases and bright yellow pots filled with lemons and limes lined the centerpiece, exuding freshness.
M/Y I Love This Boat 145' / 44.2m Christensen |
Chief Stewardess Malory Luciane and Jannel Nutting transported guests into the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland. A streamer of cards hung overhead, setting a fantastical tone. The centerpiece showcased small lanterns, a grand clock, storybooks, and a tower of teacups and teapots, creating a dynamic visual. Green moss and flowers softened the arrangement, while harmonious purple and green hues, anchored by a black and white diamond pattern, tied the design together.
M/Y Mystique 153' / 46.63m Feadship |
Chief Stewardess Janel Lourens and Bri Peterson crafted a serene ambiance with a floral bouquet of white and pink roses atop an olive glittered organza table runner. The setting was complemented by crisp white napkins adorned with a green vine design, exuding understated elegance with the colors of the season.
M/Y Rochade 155'10 / 47.5m | Delta Marine |
Upon stepping onto the bridge deck, one immediately craved lemonade—a testament to the design's effectiveness. Designed by Chief Stewardess Dominique Hakim and Christine Cillié, they began by hanging vines from the ceiling using 3M Command Hooks (a big tip here😉). As Christine mentions, she designs intentionally, incorporating fruits and vegetables and utilizing varying heights to create depth and visual interest.
M/Y Emerald 165'4 / 50.4m Feadship |
Under the guidance of Chief Stewardess Mel Valli, along with Jane Wilson and Stella Cashmore, Emerald's Secret Garden came to life. The tablescape featured various-sized potted succulents, tall wooden candlesticks holding emerald votives. Accents of rocks, vines, and eucalyptus branches enriched the centerpiece. Intricately folded menus and a double fan
napkin fold layered over placemats and plates formed an enchanting garden motif. Two distinct coaster styles and clear crystalware completed the ensemble, with a passion fruit-infused beverage adding a refreshing touch.
M/Y Nita K II 171' / 52.12m Amels |
Known as the queen of theme, Bugsy Drake, alongside Angela Castillo and Liv Rey, presented a Golden African theme for their interior table. The tablescape was a luxurious collage of glittery placemats, mixed hues of gold and copper, all set against a pristine black backdrop. Coasters and clear crystalware added to the opulence. Take note of the scale & creative runner. Mix and match.
Burgess launched their 50th Anniversary Book and enlisted Bugsy to create a setting around this theme. Always going above and beyond, she safely spray-painted faux flowers to coordinate with the turquoise setting. A white pressed tablecloth, turquoise placemats, glass charger plates, and beaded napkin rings tied it all together. The colorful bubble glassware complemented the overall design, each detail honoring Burgess.
M/Y Goldeneye 177'2 / 54m | Overmarine |
Chief Stewardess Julyana and Tia Tait curated an elegant setting featuring lanterns and flower vases in neutral tones with metallic reflections. The beautiful china added to the sophisticated ambiance, creating a timeless tablescape.
M/Y Eternity 213'3 / 65m Codecasa |
Bringing their A-team to the challenge, designed by Chief Stewardess Kristen Courtis and Second Stewardess Aimee Boelchout, they presented a Malibu Beach Barbie theme. Complete with real size Barbie dolls & Malibu Beach Ken‼️Performance by Bosun Gareth Reece, Personal Trainer Natalie Zerbib, Spa Stewardess Jade Connoway, and Chief Stewardess Kristen Courtis.
The table was adorned with disco balls of various sizes hanging from the ceiling, pink flamingos over a glittery gold pond, and meticulously crafted flower bouquets featuring lilies and roses. Palm trees and Barbie surfboards added playful elements. Each setting featured a peach napkin with a contrasting edge and a flower napkin ring. Bernardaud Ecume china, reminiscent of water bubbles on the sand, perfectly captured the Barbie beach party vibe. Thank you, team, for showcasing the next level. 💯teamwork✅
Let's recap -
Tips for the Season and Beyond
Drawing inspiration from these exemplary settings:
Layering and Textures: Combine different fabrics, layer placemats, runners and patterns to add depth and interest to your table and a backdrop to the Chef's masterpiece.
Menu Designs and Beverage Presentations: Consider thematic elements that align with your overall design, thoughtfully designed menus and freshening beverage stations with cool welcoming towels.
Napkin Folds: Experiment with different styles to complement your theme.
Creative Centerpieces: Use items you already have onboard to craft unique centerpieces. Incorporate natural elements, fruits, or themed decorations to reflect your motif.
Whimsical Elements: Hanging lightweight items from above can create a whimsical party effect. Ensure they are securely fastened and do not obstruct guests' views.
Monochrome Tones: A monochromatic color scheme over a crisp tablecloth, whether black or white, can make your table pop. This approach offers a sleek and modern aesthetic.
Resourcefulness: You don't always need to use the finest china or purchase new items. Incorporate existing pieces creatively to design a stunning table.
Team Building: Strengthen teamwork and communication through creativity
Music and Ambiance: Background music and a warm smiles are final touches that tie the experience together.
The challenge was simple: nominate yachts whose interior crew consistently go above and beyond—teams that elevate the guest experience. Participants showcased stunning tablescapes, impeccable service, and unparalleled creativity at the Top Notch Tabletop Challenge Spring 2025.
It's noteworthy that not all yachts participated, with many citing reasons such as being for sale, not having the time or lacking decorations, or just because they don't want to set the table. However, the solo stews and teams that did participate demonstrated dedication, finding inspiration in various themes and creating memorable experiences for their guests and Setting the Standards for other interior crews.
We extend our best wishes for a successful season ahead, filled with numerous charters and generous tips. Most importantly, we wish safe travels to all crew members and their guests.
Thank you for participating! Thank you for sharing! We hope this inspires all our readers!
Send us your favorite table settings to info@topnotchtabletop.com
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Thank you, Grazie mille, Merci, Muchas Gracias, Pura Vida!
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