Not sure how to decorate trays and looking for inspiration? In this post, find everything you need from easy tips to gorgeous tray decor ideas for every room in your home!
Trays are not just for serving snacks; they’re perfect to instantly elevate any space. Personally, I’m a huge fan of decorating with trays, but what’s even better is how they help keep things organized too.
In this post, I’ll show you how to style them, with over 30 examples to draw inspiration from.
From the living room to the bathroom and everywhere in between, I have a list of tray decor ideas for every corner of your home.
What are decorative trays used for?
Ever wondered what those fancy decorative trays are really for? Well, they’re not just for looks!
Sure, they add a nice touch to your home decor, but they’re also super handy for keeping things organized.
You probably know the problem of everything piling up on tables and counters. But with trays, you have a fixed place for all your things. This will keep your surfaces free of clutter. We love that!
And don’t get me started on how pretty they can be! You can jazz up your coffee table or dining table by using a tray as a centerpiece and filling it with other cute decorations.
Plus, there’s a tray out there for everyone – they come in all sorts of materials like wood, metal, acrylic, marble, and glass.
Each material gives off a different vibe, so you can pick one that matches your home’s style perfectly.
Here are some ideas on how to use and what to put in a decorative tray in your home
- Coffee Table: Make your coffee table cozy! Put a tray in the middle and fill it with coasters, a candle, a small vase of flowers, and a bowl for your remotes.
- Entryway: Keep your entryway tidy! Use a tray to hold your keys, sunglasses, mail, and anything else you need when you’re heading out.
- Bathroom: Keep your bathroom counter neat! Put a tray down and fill it with your toothbrush, soap, a little plant, and a scented candle for a relaxing vibe.
- Bedside Table: Make bedtime easy! Use a tray on your nightstand for your lamp, a book or tablet, a glass of water, and your phone.
- Bar Cart: Create a stylish bar setup! Arrange your liquor bottles, cocktail glasses, shaker, and garnishes on a tray for a fancy look.
- Vanity: Get glam! Put your makeup brushes, skincare products, perfume, and jewelry on a tray for easy access and a chic touch.
But now, let’s jump right into the fun part and explore these tray decor ideas to spruce up every corner of your home.
31 Stunning Tray Decor Ideas for Every Room
1. Add a Tray on Your Entryway Table
The entryway is a perfect spot for a tray. You can jazz it up with decorations that match your style, or keep it simple with just a candle.
But you could also make it super practical by adding a decorative bowl (we’re not limited to regular trays here!). That way, when you walk in the door, you’ve got a designated spot to toss your keys and other stuff.
I also find decorative bowls are much better for keys than flat trays. They hold them securely so that they can’t slip off and get lost.
Kitchen Tray Ideas & Kitchen Island Tray Decor Ideas
2. Organize Your Utensils
When it comes to kitchen organization, I swear by wicker baskets! They’re like the ultimate solution for keeping your counter clutter-free. I mean, where else are you gonna stash all those utensils, right?
Plus, they add a cozy touch to your kitchen decor, making it feel super welcoming.
And they help save counter space by keeping everything neat and tidy in one spot. Just throw in a vase with fresh flowers and a hand towel for some extra flair, and you’ve got yourself a super nice setup!
And hey, don’t feel limited to just wicker baskets – any tray that matches your style will do the trick!
3. Spices & Oils Next to Stove
Marble trays are one of my favorite things – they add such a classy vibe to any space! And they’re not just for pretty. You can use them to keep all your cooking oils and spices organized right by the stove where you need them.
Oh, and can we talk about these dispensers in the image? They’re seriously gorgeous! I found them on Amazon. Way better than those plain bottles they usually come in.
It’s amazing how little changes like these can really make a big difference in your kitchen! You can click the link here to check them out.
4. How to Style a Decorative Tray?
Let’s talk about tray decoration. It’s all about using what you have to create a look that reflects your style and personality.
Start by placing your tray in the center of your table or wherever you want to add a decorative touch. This will be your canvas.
Now, think about what you want to showcase. Maybe you have a beautiful vase of flowers, like the one we have here.
Place it slightly off-center to make it the focal point. On the other side of the tray, you can balance things out with another item, like a smaller vase or a decorative object.
Also, making sure your decorative items stand at varying heights is a must. Therefore, definitely go ahead and add some height and texture.
A candle is always a nice touch. You can place it next to one of the other items on the tray. Don’t forget about those small items, like draping some beads or adding a small figurine.
If you have any empty spaces on the tray, don’t worry! You can fill them in with whatever you have on hand. Maybe some decorative orbs, a small plant, or even a stack of books.
Once you’re done arranging everything, take a step back and admire your work. The beauty of styling a tray is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it.
5. Change it up for the Holiday Season
Isn’t decorating for the seasons or holidays just the best? It’s just such a fun way to switch up the vibes in your home.
Even though Easter’s already passed and fall’s still a ways off, I couldn’t help but admire these adorable tray setups. Like that tiered tray for Easter with those cute little bunnies – it’s just so cheerful!
Also, you don’t even need a regular tray. A cutting board works just as well! She used one with feet, which I find gives the whole thing a unique touch. And how cute does it look with the pumpkin-shaped kitchenware?
That’s what I love about trays – they’re so versatile and easy to switch up for any season or holiday. It’s just the best for decorating and adding that special touch to your home!
6. Small Coffee Station Ideas
Are you a coffee lover? Then you absolutely need a countertop coffee station!
Even if it’s just a tiny spot on your counter, having a dedicated space for your morning brew makes all the difference. You can use a marble tray to give it a touch of elegance.
Throw in a mug for some spoons, a vase with some flowers or greenery, and you’ve got yourself a perfect coffee setup.
Oh, and check out the image below – it just goes to show that, again, anything can be used as a tray. I mean, who knew a small cutting board could look so chic with a few essentials on top?
7. Simple Kitchen Island Tray Decor
How about keeping things simple yet super functional with a large tray? Just throw in a big vase, a cozy candle (with a small towel underneath for that extra cozy vibe), and some glasses for serving guests. It’s simple, but it adds such a pretty touch to your kitchen island.
8. Organize Even More
Trays are just perfect for organization. You can use them to keep your mason jars of grains all neat and tidy. They already look pretty on their own, but putting them in a nice tray just takes it to the next level.
And how charming is it to use a tiered tray to display a few cute mugs? I love how it brings a nice touch to the space!
9. Fruit Display
Work with what you’ve got. Take a larger wicker serving tray, for example. Place it on your kitchen island and add a few flowers to add some charm!
And don’t forget your fruits. Whether you present them on a cake stand or in a bowl, it adds color and makes the whole setup look so welcoming.
Bathroom Tray Ideas
10. Small Tray for Dispensers
Having stylish soap dispensers in your bathroom or kitchen can really elevate the look. Just adding them to a small tray next to your sink instantly changes the vibe.
Personally, I’m a fan of the black tray with white soap dispensers. It’s a classic combo that never fails to impress!
11. Tray Filled with Essentials
When it comes to our bathrooms, staying organized is key. And why not do it in style!
Depending on your vibe – rustic, glamorous, modern, vintage – you can choose the perfect tray to match.
Then, fill it up with your essentials, maybe in cute little jars, and add some decorative touches like a candle or flowers to really make it pop.
If you’re wondering what kind of tray would suit your home, I’ve got some inspo for you!
- Rustic, Farmhouse, or Scandinavian:
- Wooden Tray
- Elegant, Modern, or Minimalist:
- Marble Tray
- Contemporary, Chic, or Glamorous:
- Acrylic Tray
- Artistic, Eclectic, or Traditional:
- Ceramic Tray
- Glamorous, Vintage, or Hollywood Regency:
- Mirror Tray
Of course, this is just a rough guideline. Feel free to choose any tray that catches your eye! There are absolutely no rules when it comes to decorating with trays.
12. Or Use a Tiered Tray
Tiered trays are awesome for bathroom counters too! They give you extra space to organize your stuff. Some even have more than two tiers!
If you’re not a fan of everything being squished together in a single tray, a tiered option might be just what you need.
13. Just Because it Looks Pretty
If you have a little more space on your bathroom counter and don’t necessarily need more storage space, why not use a tray just as decoration?
Pick out a tray you love and then have fun styling it with a mix of large pieces and smaller items with different textures. It’s a simple way to add a touch of flair to your bathroom!
14. Use Skincare Products
Skincare products aren’t just for your skin – they double as decor too! I mean, have you seen how stylish they look on their own?
Especially when you pair them with a marble tray – it’s like instant elegance. Remember when I said “work with what you got”? It’s seriously that simple!
15. Toilet Tank Decor Ideas
Here’s a fun idea that might not be for everyone. But hey, why not decorate your toilet tank? It’s a simple way to add a little flair to your bathroom.
Just grab a tray, toss in a plant, a diffuser, and a cute candle holder, and voila – even your toilet tank can look its best!
16. Add an Acrylic Bathtub Tray
Don’t forget about your bathtub – it deserves some love too! If you’ve got one, adding a tray can really elevate the vibe.
Whether you’re into a modern and sleek look with an acrylic bathtub tray, or you prefer the warmth and coziness of a wooden tray. Either option will make your tub look amazing!
17. Tray Decor Ideas for Your Desk
If you’re looking for a chic way to corral all your papers and stuff, consider a gold wire letter tray! It’ll instantly jazz up your desk and give it that touch of glam. I actually found one at Target that I’ll link here for you.
Bedroom Tray Ideas
18. End of Bed Bench Decorative Tray
If you’ve got an end-of-the-bed bench, why not dress it up with a decorative tray? A gorgeous golden tray like the one in the image will give your space a touch of glam. And adding some flowers will bring it to life.
19. Spruce up Your Dresser
Got a ton of perfumes? Why not show them off on a chic tray, like a marble one? They’ll look even more stunning all displayed together.
Just like most skincare products, perfumes have their own kind of beauty. And a tray just adds that extra oomph.
Oh, and don’t sleep on a glass tray either – it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication that really makes your perfume collection pop.
Whether you’re showcasing them on your dresser or your nightstand, your perfume collection will definitely stand out!
20. Neutral Decor Ideas
If you’re all about that neutral color theme, consider grabbing a woven tray and filling it with other neutral goodies like vases, a diffuser, or some candles. Then, just plop that setup onto your dresser or console table for that instant chicness!
21. Add Trays to Your Shelves
If you’re looking for another way to showcase your perfumes, why not use a shelf? A vintage tray would look absolutely stunning on there, adding a touch of elegance.
22. Catch-All Tray on Nightstand
So, it might not be the neatest solution, but having a catch-all tray on your nightstand is a game-changer. It gives all your stuff, from watches to jewelry, a designated spot to hang out.
Plus, it’ll save you from forgetting to take off your earrings before bed. Been there, done that. Uff, the *pain*.
23. Use a Vanity Tray
Don’t restrict yourself to typical trays like serving trays. There’s a whole world of options out there! Take vanity trays, for instance. They work wonders (and look amazing!) on your nightstand, just as they do on your bathroom vanity.
You can jazz them up with a table lamp, some flowers, and candles, and voila! Instant prettiness. Of course, the same goes for any other tray, like a woven one.
24. Tray Decor Ideas for Your Bar Cart
No matter how you use your bar cart, a tray can always add that extra touch – whether it’s for decoration or organization.
If you’re serving beverages, you can use the tray to keep your wine glasses in order.
But even if you’re just using it for decor, decorative bowls or trays can look super stylish all on their own on your bar cart.
Coffee Table Tray Decor Ideas
25. Should I put a Round or Rectangle Tray on a Rectangle Coffee Table?
Honestly, there’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to choosing the shape of your tray for your coffee table.
It’s all about what feels right for you and what your personal style and preferences are.
But if you’re aiming for a cohesive look, a rectangle tray on a rectangle coffee table and a round tray on a round coffee table tend to work well.
Check out the image below – it’s the same setup as the one above, but with a round tray instead. And you know what? It still looks super nice! In fact, mixing it up with a round tray on a rectangular coffee table can add a cool visual contrast.
But hey, if balance isn’t your thing, go ahead and experiment! Trust me, there’s no better way to find out what looks best on your coffee table than trying it out for yourself.
26. Place a Tray on The Ottoman
Check out these images – both square and round trays look great on a square ottoman. So, it’s all about what you like and the vibe you’re going for.
To amp up the visual appeal, get creative when decorating trays.
Try placing a farmhouse tray filled with stones on top of a larger tray, or stack coffee table books with an interesting item on top. It adds that extra touch and balances out the heights for a more polished look.
27. Round Nesting Tables Ideas
Having options is always a plus. It’s great to see different variations so you can really visualize how things might look otherwise. Take that image with the round nesting tables, for example.
The round tray on top creates such a balanced and harmonious vibe. So if that speaks to you, go for that kind of look.
28. A Rectangular Tray on a Round Coffee Table
On the other hand, if you’re all about adding some visual interest, a rectangle tray is the way to go.
In the picture, they’re using a silver tray that adds a touch of luxury and elegance to the space.
Dining Room Tray Decor Ideas
29. Keep it Simple
If you’re into minimalist decor, this idea could be right up your alley! Just grab a woven tray and a big vase with some greenery, and you’ve got yourself a simple yet striking centerpiece for your kitchen table.
30. Place Some Essentials on the Tray
Why not make your dining room table tray both stylish and functional? Take a cue from the adorable small tray holding the salt and pepper shakers – it’s such a charming touch, isn’t it?
Throw in a small white pitcher with some greenery to give it a lively vibe. And especially if you use a white tray, the greenery will really make it stand out!
31. Add Candle Holders to the Mix
When you’re styling a tray, mixing up the heights of your decor items is key, as I mentioned earlier. Candle holders are perfect for this – they add some extra height and visual interest.
So, if you don’t have a big vase handy, candle holders can step in and do the job just as well, making your tray look even more captivating!
We have now come to the end of this post and I hope these tray decor ideas have given you some inspiration and made styling your trays a breeze! With these tips, you’ll be able to elevate any space in your home in no time! Let me know if you will try any of these tray decor ideas 🙂
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Other posts you may like:
17 Simple Toilet Tank Decor Ideas You Can Recreate On a Budget
How to Decorate a Bathtub: 25 Stunning Ideas to Elevate Your Space
25 Stunning Bedroom Dresser Decor Ideas for a Stylish Look
28 Best Makeup Table Decor Ideas To Elevate Your Makeup Area
22 Clever Bedside Table Ideas For Small Spaces You Need To See
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