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Decor Tips

Decorative Tray Ideas for Parties, Breakfast-in-Bed & More

Published November 04, 2019

Need some decorative tray ideas for your next party? Follow our TRAYning guide, which takes you through simple strategies, effective steps and the most beautiful, photo-worthy aesthetics for ottoman tray ideas, how to decorate an ottoman tray and more!

1. As a way to bring cohesion to your decor.

Placing a few decorative accents on a coffee table won’t mean much if they don’t feel like they ‘belong’ together. On a tray, your accessories will feel unified – and, not to mention, easy to move all at once.

2. Remember: ‘3’ is a balanced number.

Three is everywhere – from nursery rhymes (think Three Blind Mice), fairy tales (think Aladdin and the three wishes), and even novels (think ‘Three Musketeers’). (And, even, in this step – notice how three examples are given!) This is because it ‘rounds’ everything out – it brings a satisfying sense of completion.

For a space that feels pulled together and balanced, group decor in three’s!

3. For hotel-worthy vibes.

Want to feel like you’re living in a resort? Place a tray with a fresh plant on a made bed. (And if you’re really feeling the hotel vibes, throw in a few chocolates!)

15 + 18 Inch White Wood Tray With Blue Stripe Set Of 2

$75

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Set Of 2 Round Seagrass Tray

$95

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2 Piece Set Red Metal Trays

$125

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2 Tiered Metal Tray

$79

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4. For breakfast (or coffee) in bed.

Of all of life’s simple joys, there’s perhaps none better than a tray of breakfast brought to you in bed. So, whether you’re doing the bringing or the feasting (or both), you’ll definitely need a tray. (For an enjoyably spill-proof morning, go extra-spacious and extra-sturdy.)

5. On an ottoman.

Tray on coffee table is expected; tray on ottoman is not. A sophisticated tray + succulent reinvents what was once ‘that thing you propped your feet on.’ (For all you influencers out there, tray on ottoman also makes a great flat lay for the ‘gram!)

6. With boho flair.

For the newly-converted bohemme, a woven tray + ceramic decor in bold colors and tribal patterns = the ultimate “starter kit.”

Hear that? It’s the subtle whisper of one of our favorite mantras, coming from the living room above: green is vibrant, green is fresh, green is good!

Grey 3.5 Inch Metal Galvanized Trays Set Of 2

$65

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Set Of 2 Square Rattan Trays

$165

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Set Of 2 Antique White Nesting Trays

$70

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2 Piece Set Aluminum Trays

$69

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7. With a “non-tray.”

Technically, a flat basket isn’t a tray – but it’s become such a widespread decorating phenomenon, we wouldn’t correct you if you accidentally called it one!

8. For a home bar.

An empty home bar is every decorator’s dream – because the possibilities are truly limitless. (If they seem too limitless, and you don’t know where even to start, start with a tray!)

3 Inch Aluminum Boat Tray

$65

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2 Piece St Wood And Lattice Tray

$125

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Wood Tray Set Of 2

$55

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White Enamel Metal Tray Set Of 2

$75

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9. To make a simple statement.

When the decor inside the tray is bold, no need to go all-out with a fancy tray; clean and simple gets the job done!

10. For sipping refreshments by the pool.

Who needs poolside waitservice? A beachy tray sporting your favorite fruity margs delivers the same amount of luxe – no tipping required!

Decorative Tray Inspiration

Multi 3 Inch Wood Lacquer Shell Tray

$89

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24 & 30" Natural Rattan Round Trays Set Of Two

$195

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Set Of 2 Blue Tile And Wood Trays

$75

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Grey 1 Inch Metal Galvanized Tray Set Of 3

$69

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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.