With lots of autumn sporting events on the horizon, I put together some inspiration for an old school, preppy look (think "Love Story" meets Ralph Lauren) that would work for many a tailgate. Be it for a horse race, a college football game, or a gathering with friends after shooting or playing paddle tennis, this buffet style tablescape exudes a healthy dose of preppy nostalgia.
To set the tone, I choose a wool plaid picnic blanket that has a collegiate feel (you will be seeing a lot of it this season). I used mainly vintage pieces, and wove in some simple equestrian touches along with family trophies.
Apples give a nod to fall and the vintage leather bound books bring an Ivy League feel to the outdoors.
The polo trophies were won by my great-grandfather and date back to as early as 1909 (you can find similar one's in flea markets and vintage stores). 
I added dried boxwood for an element of country club green. 
An old school tailgate would not be complete without cocktails! The vintage low-ball glasses have a paddle tennis motif on them and are set on a vintage monogrammed silver tray with a matching cocktail shaker.
