A fruitless search for gold or silver table runners for a holiday cocktail party made me think outside the proverbial “housewares” box.  I found long silver and gold scarves at a discount department store (Filene’s Basement) and used those as my runners.  They were even nicer than any runner I would have found, and were much less expensive ($10-15 each). 

Next time you’re searching for the perfect color/ patterned tablecloth check out the scarf section at any department store.  A crisp white tablecloth can be used as the base for any runner, any time of year.  Just vary the runner and add a few accessories to customize your table for any occasion.  Happy shopping!