Why Tartan Is Taking Over Redlands Events
There’s something happening at weddings, corporate galas, and backyard celebrations across Redlands. Between the Spanish Colonial architecture and the orange grove sunsets, a pattern is stealing the show: tartan. That’s right—the classic Scottish plaid is becoming the unexpected star of Southern California events.
If you’re planning something special in Redlands and haven’t considered tartan, you’re missing out on one of the most versatile design elements around. Here’s why this heritage pattern deserves a place at your next celebration.
A Pattern That Actually Photographs Well
Anyone who’s planned an event knows the struggle of creating a backdrop that looks good in person and translates beautifully to photos. Tartan solves this problem effortlessly. The intersecting lines and rich color combinations create natural visual interest without overwhelming the frame. Whether your photographer is capturing candids by the fountain at the Redlands Bowl or formal portraits in front of heritage citrus trees, tartan adds depth and texture that flat colors simply can’t match.
The pattern scales beautifully too. A tartan table runner reads as elegant sophistication, while tartan ribbons on favor boxes add just enough personality without screaming for attention. Your Instagram feed will thank you.
Heritage Meets California Cool
Redlands has always been a city that honors its past while embracing the present. The Victorian mansions along Olive Avenue coexist with modern farm-to-table restaurants. Tartan fits perfectly into this aesthetic fusion. It brings Old World craftsmanship and tradition to events while feeling fresh and intentional rather than stuffy or dated.
There’s also something deeply human about tartan. Each pattern tells a story, carries meaning, and connects to centuries of tradition. In a world of disposable party decorations, choosing tartan signals that your event matters, that you’ve put thought into the details, that you’re celebrating something worth remembering.
Color Combinations That Work With Everything
Planning an event in Redlands means working with the natural palette around you: the terracotta roofs, the green of the valley, the golden light that filters through the oak trees. Tartan comes in countless color combinations that complement these tones beautifully.
Going for a romantic garden wedding at the Kimberly Crest? A soft green and cream tartan enhances the natural surroundings. Hosting a sophisticated corporate dinner at the Casa Loma Room? Deep burgundy and navy tartan tablecloths add gravitas. Planning a casual outdoor celebration? Bright red and yellow tartan throws personality into the mix.
The genius of tartan is its built-in coordination. Once you’ve selected your pattern, you’ve essentially created an entire color palette that works together automatically. No more agonizing over whether your napkins clash with your centerpieces.
Versatility That Saves Time and Money
Event planning in Redlands often means juggling multiple vendors, venues, and visions. Tartan is remarkably adaptable across all of them. The same tartan ribbon that ties your invitations can wrap your bouquet, accent your cake, and tie back your ceremony drapes. This continuity creates a cohesive event design without requiring you to source dozens of different coordinating elements.
Tartan also transitions seamlessly between formal and casual settings. Use fine wool tartan for an upscale affair or cotton tartan for a relaxed gathering. The pattern itself carries enough visual weight that even budget-friendly materials look intentional and polished.
A Conversation Starter That Feels Personal
Events are about bringing people together, and tartan gives guests something to notice and discuss. Whether someone recognizes their family clan pattern or simply appreciates the bold design choice, tartan creates natural moments of connection. It’s distinctive enough to be memorable without being so unusual that it alienates anyone.
For couples and hosts with Scottish heritage, tartan offers an authentic way to incorporate family history into modern celebrations. For those without that connection, it’s still a sophisticated choice that signals attention to detail and design confidence.
Practical Benefits You’ll Actually Appreciate
Beyond aesthetics, tartan offers practical advantages for Redlands events. The pattern is incredibly forgiving. A small stain on a solid-colored tablecloth draws the eye immediately, but tartan’s busy pattern camouflages minor accidents. This means less stress during your event and more focus on actually enjoying yourself.
The fabric options for tartan are extensive, which matters when you’re planning for Redlands weather. Lightweight cotton tartan works for warm afternoon events, while heavier wool tartan adds warmth and coziness for evening gatherings as temperatures drop.
Making Tartan Work for Your Event
The key to using tartan successfully is restraint and intention. This isn’t about turning your venue into a Scottish castle. Instead, consider tartan as an accent that elevates your overall design.
Start with one signature tartan pattern and incorporate it in strategic ways. Perhaps it’s the table runners at your reception, the backing on your welcome sign, or the pocket squares for your wedding party. Layer in complementary solid colors that pull from the tartan palette, and let the pattern do the work of adding visual interest.
For corporate events, tartan adds warmth and personality to spaces that might otherwise feel too sterile or generic. A tartan backdrop for your photo booth or tartan accents on your gift bags creates a memorable brand moment without requiring a complete redesign of your corporate aesthetic.
The Bottom Line
Tartan works for Redlands events because it bridges the gap between tradition and contemporary style, between careful planning and effortless elegance. It photographs beautifully, coordinates easily, and adds personality without overwhelming your vision.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering at your Redlands residence or organizing a grand event at one of the city’s iconic historic locations, tartan provides a design choice that blends function with visual appeal. It conveys thoughtfulness and purpose—an understated detail that leaves a lasting impression on guests.
As you plan your next Redlands celebration, consider embracing a pattern that has enhanced festivities for generations. Tartan could be the distinctive touch that seamlessly brings your entire concept to life.
About the Restaurant
Tartan of Redlands is a beloved local fixture and traditional steakhouse that has served the community for decades. Celebrated for its Saturday night prime rib, extensive selection of high-quality steaks, the renowned Redlands Tartan Burger, and a fully stocked bar, the restaurant holds a cherished spot in the city’s dining scene.
The story began on April 15, 1964, when brothers Velmer, Al, and Art Ctoteau opened the restaurant in downtown Redlands, driven by a shared dedication to exceptional food and genuine hospitality. Their vision set the stage for a dining establishment that would become a true community landmark.
Over time, Larry Westin joined the ownership team, partnering with the Ctoteau family and, together with his wife, steering the restaurant through many successful years. After his passing in 2003, the legacy continued under Larry Westin Jr. until 2015, when ownership transitioned to Jeff and Lisa Salamon. Jeff Salamon, a Boston native and proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, has remained deeply committed to honoring the traditions and character that define the Tartan.
Even after decades of operation, Tartan of Redlands continues to offer a warm, classic atmosphere. Fondly known as the “Cheers of Redlands,” it’s a place where familiar faces and first-time visitors alike are welcomed with friendliness, comfort, and a strong sense of community.
