{{blog.title}} ›

Decor Tips

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

Last Updated July 08, 2024

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!)

Set Of 2 Round Seagrass Tray | Curved

$82

Quicklook

15 | 18 Inch White Wood Serving Tray Blue Stripe | Set of 2

$45

Quicklook

2 Tiered Metal Wood Curved Tray

$79

Quicklook

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!

Set Of 2 Antique White Nesting Trays

$70

Quicklook

Set Of 2 Square Rattan Trays

$165

Quicklook

2 Piece Set Aluminum Trays

$45

Quicklook

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!)

Wood Tray Set Of 2

$55

Quicklook

2 Piece St Wood And Lattice Tray

$125

Quicklook

2 Tiered Metal Wood Curved Tray

$79

Quicklook

White Enamel Metal Serving Tray Set of 2 | Ottoman Tray | Curved

$75

Quicklook

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

$72

Quicklook

Set Of 2 Blue Tile And Wood Trays

$75

Quicklook

Grey 1 Inch Metal Galvanized Tray Set Of 3

$42

Quicklook

— More Great Articles —

Decorative Tray Ideas + Beyond

Decor Tips Jar Decoration Ideas (For Candy Jars + More!)

Decor Tips Clock Ideas That Prove It’s Time to Decorate

Decor Tips 10 Affordable Outdoor Wedding Decoration + Reception Ideas

Decor Tips Throw Blanket on Bed (+ Other Styling Ideas)

Beyond Decorative Tray Ideas

Read the Latest

Shopping Basics These 4 Best Wine Racks Won the Tests — and a Designer’s Heart

Getting Social 9 Fun Things to Do in Friendswood

Shopping Basics 4 Best Gaming Chairs of 2025: The Official List

Shopping Basics 9 Best Chaise Lounges for a Weekend of Relaxation

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.