Trays on Tuesday!
Let’s talk about trays today! Do you have a tray in your house? What are the uses of the tray, and how long can you use them?
Trays are super “in” right now. Not only serving the sole purpose of looking cute for home decor, they are also useful, and provide functionality. The style of tray may evolve over time, but I’m convinced that the functionality of a tray (in many areas of my house) is needed!
First, my kitchen counter. Although this is the biggest kitchen I’ve had, it still does not have tons of space for decorations. This is where trays come in!
Tiered tray: Adds height. You can fit more on the trays to display. Adds the perfect dose of seasonal fun right in your kitchen, and you can transport it easily. I put my tiered tray on my island and its great. The one downside is probably when I have company over, as the island is the place to serve food, it could seem a little overwhelming, but I can just move the tray over and I can see over the counter just fine 🙂
Flat tray: A Flat tray is a great option without adding height, because maybe you don’t want it! This flat tray is also considered a “coffee tray”. Its simple, and it helps contain items or decorations. This flat tray would be perfect on a large ottoman, a coffee table, on the end of your bed, just to name a few. I also had this on my countertop. Perhaps a little less dramatic than my 15in tall tiered tray, but still a focal point of my kitchen on my island countertop.
Who is a tray good for?
Trays are ideal for holding decorations or even party supplies, cookies, treats, etc. They look amazing if the rest of your counter is completely clear of any clutter. However, if there is clutter on your counter or decorations throughout your countertops in your kitchen, it could actually add to that cluttered feeling.
Trays are great for people who want a sleek, clean, look everywhere else, and one spot “to deck out”.
Are Trays Expensive?
No! They don’t have to be. But you also must consider the usage (will you be moving it alot) etc. My circular single level trays were $5 each. Perfect for my bathroom counter, avoiding water, excessive usage, etc.
My tiered tray is heavy duty, its childproof, and I can use it forever, I can tell from the heaviness of it! That tray was more pricey though, and luckily I got it for Christmas. My husband was the giver, so I did find out how much it was and where he got it. 🙂 It was $35 at Costco, I think regularly they are $40.
I really like my tiered tray because it will last through Hudson. He loves that tray because it’s tall and he’s always trying to find ways to get to it. Sometimes I just place it on the table because I don’t want him high up on my island countertop.
Advice:
If you’re looking for a tiered tray, look at the area in your home you will most likely put it. Is it light, or dark?
In my kitchen I have dark countertops and wooden cabinets. The dark tray works fine for me. I would love a white tray, but that would only work during some seasons for me (think bright seasons).I would probably want an antique white so it seems a little more subtle than a bright perfect white without texture. I wouldn’t want my tray to stick out too much.
If you have a light kitchen, a lighter tray may be what you’re looking for. However, if you want to add some darker accent this is also a great way to go.
Keep your trays away from water. Usually any type of wood decor isn’t really rated to hold your soap dispensers. It looks great, but you will probably see the effects pretty soon, and may be disappointed you didn’t get a longer life out of your trays.
Can I make a tray?
Absolutely! However, it would be some work. I personally wouldn’t make a circular tray from scratch because that would require more tools than I currently own. But! There are kits out there that are already pre-made. Just make sure to look at the dimensions, because many are smaller than you’d expect. Maybe the decorations you buy won’t actually fit on that tray. So just double check its what you want prior to ordering. Also, when you paint the trays, make sure you pick a color you’ll love, and only antique it if you’re really into it.
If I Get a Tray, will it go out of Style?
Someday it might. But I think the concept of containing items for display will still be a thing. Minimalism is becoming ever more popular (meaning no clutter at all, maybe one item on the countertop like a simple floral arrangement). However, if you love to decorate, then decorate! Maybe trays will be reinvented with new current trends someday, i.e. metal, wood, plastic, etc. Maybe heights and other dimensions will change, or maybe the circular trays will be out all together.
Do I have to have a circular tray?
No! I really like the rectangular and square trays too. Circular trays use more space actually. But, when I want a sleek, clean, countertop, a circle actually fits really well and stands out a bit more, while still containing that clutter and looking sleek.
Its up to you! Do what fits you and your style (and budget!)
Do you have trays? Post a picture below! Any advice on trays? We’d also love to hear it!
XOXO,
Kelsie Ann
