Christmas dinner is a special occasion, a chance to gather friends and family round to share good food, happy memories and a few laughs. There is no need to invest in a new set of table linens for the festive highlight; adding a few new pieces to your existing collection can give your tablescape a fresh look.
It’s easy to elevate your dining area’s look. You can inject a hint of glitz with elegant glassware, green votive candles, shiny accessories such as golden candlesticks and cutlery and a statement dish in a seasonal leaf motif. Finish it off with red tapered candles for just the right amount of warmth.
Choose a traditional bouquet of seasonal flowers and greenery at a low height, so it doesn’t interfere with table conversation, and place it at the centre of the table.
I love using place-name cards and menus at this time of year – they just add a little formality to the whole setting and can be simply prepared and tucked cosily under the napkin.
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Seasonal tablescaping tips
Don’t panic if you have nothing newly bought. The first thing to do is explore what you already have at home.
Pick a colour
I choose a colour scheme first, or a few key colours, for my table. I then decide on whether to go with floral arrangements or just add foliage with my centrepiece. Foliage always makes a statement and you can always run to the garden for last-minute emergencies – winter greenery is perfect scattered along the centre of the table.
Have the table set
Set the table the day before you entertain so it’s one job that has been done in advance. I like to start with a tablecloth, as this creates a lovely base layer for the table. If a tablecloth is not for you, a runner can look fabulous along the centre of the table. You can then add depth to this with placemats and charger plates.
Don’t overdo it
Don’t over-style your table. Just add the plates you need for your first course on each place setting. Tapered candles are great for adding height to your table; use them along with tea lights.
Nature is your ally
For place names, use foliage or fruit if you don’t want to use paper – pomegranates and a gold Sharpie are all you need. This year at The Designed Table, we’ve collaborated with Dublin-based calligraphy and engraving artist Calligraphy by Laura to create an elegant range of place cards in white, red and green.
Napkin know-how
Do a simple fold with your napkins or pop them into a napkin ring. If you don’t have napkin rings tie some Christmas ribbon and add a sprig of eucalyptus on top.
Lighten the mood
I just use lamps in the room where I am hosting and lots of candlelight to add sparkle and atmosphere.
Preparation is key
Set the table the day before or morning of. Light the candles as soon as guests are due to sit for dinner and not while they are sitting. A cold starter is always handy, as this can be made before and just served.
Low florals, high visibility
Never have your florals too high, so you can see your guests across the table. The same applies for candles. Keep tea lights low and taper candles tall and slim and not in big vessels. Also, leave your scented candles off the dinner table. I always have one in the hall and bathroom but avoid other scents apart from food near the table until the meal is finished.
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