Table settings that look way more expensive than they really are

Marble effect side plate: £4, Marks & Spencer. Marble effect charger plate: £10, Marks & Spencer. Set of 16 copper effect cutlery: £32, Next. Concrete planter with succulent: £12, Geo Fleur. Linen table runner: £7.99, H&M. Enamel tumblers: £6 each, Falcon Enamelware. Copper jug: bought in India

With all the refurbishment, we’ve not had anyone around for a while, so haven’t really taken a good look at our crockery – some of it I had had since uni! So I’ve been looking at having a little overhaul and found some great pieces that are more affordable than you think.

Table runner: £7.99, H&M. ‘Love’ print: £15, Big Jon

These table runners were leftover from our wedding and have become so useful, less stuffy than a table cloth and help with the layering on the table. I’m a fan of ‘clutter’ on tables, so Ikea tealights (in copper jars from Anthropologie), flowers in mini kilner bottles and succulents all help create some ambience. Greys and greens go so well together and the Banana Leaf coasters are a cute addition.

Marble effect side plate: £4, Marks & Spencer. Marble effect charger plate: £10, Marks & Spencer. Set of 16 copper effect cutlery: £32, Next.

I had been looking at copper cutlery for a while and had finally decided that the Habitat set at £80 were the most affordable I would find. But I had forgotten about Next homewares, and spied these at the Press day – £32 for a 16 piece set – meaning I could afford to invest in the copper trend on a bit more of a whim. I’m probably still going to do that ridiculous thing my mum does when she saves certain cutlery sets for ‘best’ but I can’t wait to have some people round for our next dinner party.