If you’re hosting Christmas this year, chances are you’re looking for some top tips on how to give your dining table the wow factor. Here, we’ve put together some inspiration on how to give your guests a magical meal to remember.
Take the lead from your tableware
Your tableware should be the star of the show, so allow it to shine by taking cues from the different patterns and colours that feature on your dishes and plates. Traditional reds and greens are a failsafe option for a classic Christmas tablescape. Look for tableware with a heartwarming Christmas motif, such as Spode’s Christmas Tree collection, to introduce these colours more subtly if you’re reluctant to overhaul your space with bold hues. Then, create a beautiful backdrop by laying a table runner or tablecloth. Choose a solid colour and dress with accessories or choose a patterned design for added interest. Add flashes of gold and red throughout your arrangement to guide your guest’s attention around the table.
Add decorative flourishes
For a table arrangement that looks utterly magical, adopt the ‘less is more’ approach. Often, all you really need is a nice dinnerware set, fresh garland, and some decadent accessories. Metallic décor like gold and brass candlesticks and napkin rings all add glamour, while the reflective surfaces play beautifully with twinkly lights from candles. That being said, every Christmas tablescape can benefit from a striking decorative accent, such as a Christmas tree napkin holder that will undoubtedly be a conversation starter. Up your tablescape game by dotting ceramic Christmas trees or decorative cones along the centre of the table to add height without obstructing people’s eye-line.
Play with texture
To create a textured look, use a mix of table linens, glassware, and tableware. Start with a tablecloth or runner with a luscious pattern and flecks of gold and yellow that lend themselves perfectly to this time of year. Add matching dinner plates for a beautiful pattern-on-pattern effect or mix and match your tableware for a tablescape with even more impact. For example, you can use neutral tones for large and small plates and add a pop of colour with red bowls. Alternatively, embrace your inner maximalist and mix patterns, teaming festive designs with ornate, decorative styles.
Personalise decor
Give personal touches to all the little details you add to your table. For place names, fold pieces of coloured cards to put above or on the plate, with handwritten names in an elaborate style of font. Embroidered napkins are another way to create a well-thought-out scheme. If you have candlestick holders, consider adding beautiful thick ribbons to them.
One practice that can make your festivities even more memorable is sending guests home with a thoughtful gift. This could be a one-of-a-kind Christmas decoration or a vintage-inspired candle holder, both of which will make magical additions to your giftee’s home.
Bring out your best glassware
An abundance of glassware creates a luxurious look, so pair champagne flutes with coordinating tumblers for each place, setting them directly onto the tablecloth. For a magical, ethereal look, choose ribbed or iridescent glassware and pop a sprig of rosemary in each glass. When your party inevitably transitions from the dinner table to the lounge, bring out your festive mugs to enjoy a mulled wine or hot chocolate as you warm by the fire.
