Tips for Setting Your Table For The Holidays
|
|
Time to read min
I find there's something truly special about setting a table, especially when it's for those close to my heart. And the holiday season, in particular, is a favourite time of the year for me to indulge my creative side and create a beautiful, inviting table.
Creating a festive and inviting table for Christmas goes beyond just setting the mood for a shared meal; it’s also an opportunity to start decorating my home for the holidays, since my table is a central space in our home.
So, I’d love to share a bit of my experience and some easy, heartfelt tips when it comes to transforming your table into an inviting, magical space for the holidays.
Holiday Table Checklist
- Neutral Table Cloth or Runner
- Seasonal Greenery
- Layered Place Settings
- Sparkling Glassware
- Candles for a Special Glow
- Pretty Napkins
- Personalized Place Cards
Table Cloth & Runner
When setting your table you want there to be texture and an easy way to introduce this is with a textile. Personally I love table runners because they are an easy and effective way to create layers and visual interest to my table. This year I opted for a neutral table runner that sits quietly as the basis for the festive accents I’ve layered on top.
Tip: If you adore a particular tablecloth but want to try the runner look, you can fold it into thirds and lay it lengthwise for a similar effect.
Seasonal Greenery, Candles, & Centerpiece
The heart of any holiday table is its centerpiece. This year I opted for faux pine stems that I weaved together to create a garland-like effect. Tucking in some berries and pinecones adds that extra dimension.
In my opinion, no tablescape is complete without candles. This year I’ve placed a lantern in the centre and then candlesticks on either side. I chose wooden candlesticks, as I’m going for a more organic, natural feel. I will sometimes scatter glass votives along the table to add even more candle light.
Layered Place Settings & Pretty Napkins
Layering plates creates visual interest, and topping them with a well-folded napkin adds more texture and colour. My mother always taught me that you must have pretty napkins on hand when inviting guests to dine with you.
This time of year, I like to add a special touch to the napkin holder – a small red ribbon with a cinnamon stick tucked inside does just the trick. Want some more ideas for inspiration? Just head to Pinterest and you will find oodles!
Sparkling Glassware
The holiday table is not the time to use your everyday glasses. You know the ones I mean, that have been through the dishwasher dozens of time. Whether it’s stemware or the sparkle of copper mugs, bring a hint of glamour and glimmer to the setting with your glassware.
Personalized Place Cards
Make your guests feel truly special by incorporating handwritten place cards. A simple touch, like using tags from the stationery or dollar store as card holders, elevates the dining experience. It's these thoughtful details that turn a meal into a cherished memory. Believe me, your guests will notice and appreciate it!
Beyond the table, there's the heart of the celebration – the meal. Taking the time to plan ahead ensures not only a delicious feast but also a stress-free hosting experience. My family often tease me about how long it takes me to just decide what to serve guests at an upcoming get together. I spend a lot of time on Google!
Whether it's a cherished family recipe or a new culinary adventure, the effort you put into the meal will resonate with warmth and satisfaction. I have a favourite family Christmas cookbook that I love browsing to get me in the hostess mood! Some of our past favourite meals have come from this well worn book.
So as you decorate your home and get ready to welcome your loved ones, remember, setting the table is more than just making it look nice. It's about creating a feeling, an atmosphere for shared joy.
I hope these tips are helpful. I don’t know about you, but I’m so excited for Christmas meals gathered around this table.
Cheers to a magical holiday!
Sincerely, Rose
I find there's something truly special about setting a table, especially when it's for those close to my heart. And the holiday season, in particular, is a favourite time of the year for me to indulge my creative side and create a beautiful, inviting table.
What I’ve come to realize is that the thought and time I spend setting my table goes beyond just setting the mood for a shared meal; it’s also an opportunity to start decorating my home for the holidays, since my table is a central space in our home.
So, I’d love to share a bit of my experience and some easy, heartfelt tips when it comes to transforming your table into an inviting, magical space for the holidays.
HOLIDAY TABLE CHECKLIST
Neutral Table Cloth or Runner
Seasonal Greenery
Layered Place Settings
Sparkling Glassware
Candles for a Special Glow
Pretty Napkins
Personalized Place Cards
When setting your table you want there to be texture and an easy way to introduce this is with a textile. Personally I love table runners because they are an easy and effective way to create layers and visual interest to my table. This year I opted for a neutral table runner that sits quietly as the basis for the festive accents I’ve layered on top.
Tip: If you adore a particular tablecloth but want to try the runner look, you can fold it into thirds and lay it lengthwise for a similar effect.
The heart of any holiday table is its centerpiece. This year I opted for faux pine stems that I weaved together to create a garland-like effect. Tucking in some berries and pinecones adds that extra dimension.
In my opinion, no tablescape is complete without candles. This year I’ve placed a lantern in the centre and then candlesticks on either side. I chose wooden candlesticks, as I’m going for a more organic, natural feel. I will sometimes scatter glass votives along the table to add even more candle light.
Layering plates creates visual interest, and topping them with a well-folded napkin adds more texture and colour. My mother always taught me that you must have pretty napkins on hand when inviting guests to dine with you.
This time of year, I like to add a special touch to the napkin holder – a small red ribbon with a cinnamon stick tucked inside does just the trick. Want some more ideas for inspiration? Just head to Pinterest and you will find oodles!
The holiday table is not the time to use your everyday glasses. You know the ones I mean, that have been through the dishwasher dozens of time. Whether it’s stemware or the sparkle of copper mugs, bring a hint of glamour and glimmer to the setting with your glassware.
Make your guests feel truly special by incorporating handwritten place cards. A simple touch, like using tags from the stationery or dollar store as card holders, elevates the dining experience. It's these thoughtful details that turn a meal into a cherished memory. Believe me, your guests will notice and appreciate it!
Beyond the table, there's the heart of the celebration – the meal. Taking the time to plan ahead ensures not only a delicious feast but also a stress-free hosting experience. My family often tease me about how long it takes me to just decide what to serve guests at an upcoming get together. I spend a lot of time on Google!
Whether it's a cherished family recipe or a new culinary adventure, the effort you put into the meal will resonate with warmth and satisfaction. I have a favourite family Christmas cookbook that I love browsing to get me in the hostess mood! Some of our past favourite meals have come from this well worn book.
So as you decorate your home and get ready to welcome your loved ones, remember, setting the table is more than just making it look nice. It's about creating a feeling, an atmosphere for shared joy.
I hope these tips are helpful. I don’t know about you, but I’m so excited for Christmas meals gathered around this table.
Cheers to a magical holiday!
