If food is drama, the table is the stage! And hosting a memorable lunch or dinner party entails far more than the starter, main course, and dessert! Tanya Anand can be the perfect mentor when it comes to revamping tables and converting a boring and dull environment into a vibrant one! Tanya’s foray into tablescaping began during the lockdown period, and today it’s a side passion she enjoys in her free time. Tanya’s creative work has been recognized by IndiaToday Home and Ideal Home and Garden, and she has also won several table-styling contests in the Instagram décor community.
A Cambridge certified language trainer, Tanya has been teaching for more than five years. She was first with English Mate, a language school run by Hindustan Times, and then joined Burlington in October 2020. She has taught Spoken and General English to both adults and young learners, and Business English as well.
An alumnus of Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi, and Kingston University, United Kingdom, Tanya started her career with Google India, followed by a long stint in the writing and communications industry. Her written work has been published in Travel Secrets Magazine, TheWire.in, and IndiaTimes.com
Tablescaping is the trend that’s here to stay and Tanya Anand shares with us her experience as an educator and how you can incorporate simple tips in your table setting to make it look eye-catching!
Tanya Anand- Elevating your Dining Experience
Interview
Questions and answers
As an educator, what are some of the recurring problems that you have encountered in your students when it comes to Spoken English?
When it comes to English language training, one of the recurring problems is the use of Indianisms- words and phrases that are commonly used in Indian English but are not understood in the context of international English. For instance, using “passed out” of school/college, instead of using the word finished; asking “where do you put up?” to enquire about residence when the term ‘put up’ has a totally different meaning; “please revert” rather than reply or respond; and many more. Once you are aware of these Indianisms, you should avoid using them, so that you sound more confident and correct.
How does Business English differ from General and Spoken English?
Business English involves learning the language for business purposes. Some of the elements could be communication skills, email writing, report writing, presentation skills, and such.
General English covers all four skills – listening, reading, writing, and speaking, and includes grammar whereas the focus of Spoken English is on improving speaking skills. The grammar component may not be there at all or could be very limited.
Can you provide some tips and advice to those who wish to have their writings published as well but do not know where to start?
Build your portfolio and keep it ready. There are some great sites out there that let you create digital portfolios where you can save your work and also share it with others. Don’t hesitate to reach out to publications or literary agents. Network with people whose work you admire and who are already established, to learn from their experience. Be open to receiving feedback. Believe in yourself and keep working at your craft!
When and how did you first realize your knack for tablescaping?
Since childhood, I used to observe both my mom and maternal grandmother, who were really particular about the table layout. From the flower arrangements to the placement of cutlery, plus the linen and crockery used- everything was done in a proper way. Now, when I create my tablescapes, I, too, focus on the same aspects and include them in my layouts. The lockdown gave me an opportunity to explore this childhood fascination of mine and translate it into an expression of creativity.
Can you elaborate on how tablescaping can add a personal touch to any celebration?
Tablescaping is the art of making your table more visually appealing by incorporating different artful elements. You can give your tablescape a theme to celebrate the event and include little details that make your presentation more decorative. For example, for a sit-down dinner, you can place name tags and small gifts for each guest. And if it’s a special occasion, you can add hand-painted menus, photos, or other mementoes that bring joy. Lastly, pay extra attention to the table linen, glasses, cutlery, and crockery that you’ll be using. Top off your setting with candles, flowers, and a beautiful centrepiece.