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Get Christmas Dining Ready with our Tablescaping Inspiration

Published: 04/12/2024

Christmas Dinner is possibly the most anticipated meal of the entire year. Whether you’re hosting a 12-person banquet or a cosy festive table for two, let the merriment commence and make spending time with your loved ones around the dinner table all the more special by creating a beautiful and inviting tablescape.

With our tablescape ideas you can make the most wonderful time of year even more memorable with the use of artificial garlands, berries, named place holders and more.

     1. First, pick a theme

Before diving into the details, consider settling on a theme for your tablescape. This will help you stay focused and keep your setting looking cohesive. Your theme doesn’t need to be obvious, it could be as simple as a common motif or a single colour that appears throughout your linens and accessories to give your table a look of being professionally styled.

If you don’t know where to begin, consider who will be gathering around your table. Will it be a glamourous affair or will everyone still be in their pyjamas? Will there be masses of in-laws or a more quiet, romantic dinner for two? The overarching theme already used for your Christmas décor may also guide your choices for tableware, linens, and decorations if they’re in the same room. Why not take a look at our 5 decorating themes for a bit of inspiration?

     2. Start with your base

Begin to build your table with a beautiful tablecloth or runner that perfectly complements your theme. To anchor your scheme and make it all the more festive, we suggest laying a luscious artificial garland along the length of your table that you can use as a base for further decoration. You can also drape it over the edges or intertwine with fairy lights for an enchanting ambience.

Artificial garlands are a versatile and durable option for decorating tables, and they have the added bonus of being reusable for multiple events. There are many styles available, each creating a different look, so consider your theme before choosing.

Add texture and layers with placemats or chargers. Woven placemats are great for a casual setting, while metallic chargers add a touch of sophistication.

     3. Create the perfect place setting

Choose plates, bowls and glassware that complement your theme. For a cohesive look, stick to a consistent colour palette. You can experiment by adding patterned crockery or add a bit of fun to classic crockery with a cracker or small gift for each guest. This could be a cracker full of truffles, a jar of homemade chutney, or a bauble for your guests to keep. With the latter it’s fun to pick different decorations for each guest, then make them guess which one is theirs - novelty baubles are especially good for this. Alternatively, you can’t go wrong with a beautiful set of named place holders, which will help to avoid any squabbles over who sits next to whom!

Lay out your cutlery and napkins. Cloth napkins add a sophisticated touch. Use napkin rings or fold creatively to enhance your tablescape. You can even add in a pretty berry, flower or foliage stem for an extra festive feel.

     4. Add finishing touches

Choosing the finishing touches is the most important part of table styling. These elements will tie your scheme together, and you can add as much or as little drama as you like. Remember that your guests still need to be able to converse so try to vary your heights and not block eye level with multiple vases or large items.

Candles add warmth and ambiance. Place them in lanterns, seasonal candle holders, or even jam jars depending on your theme.

Artificial flower arrangements can be just as stunning as real ones and can really add to the wow factor of your table. Use a mix of vases in different heights and styles to create visual interest, and ensure you have balance in your blooms by mixing larger headed flowers with smaller filler flowers and greenery. When styling candles and vases together, pair taller vases with tea lights or short candle holders, and elevate smaller bud vases with traditional pillar or tapered candles. Position arrangements in the centre of your table or use multiple pieces, spaced evenly along the length of a longer table.

Lastly, consider additional elements like decorative items or small seasonal pieces including pinecones, ceramic houses and novelty characters. We are partial to adding a sweet felt mouse or classic reindeer here and there!

Creating the perfect Christmas tablescape is all about attention to detail and creativity. By incorporating artificial garlands, floral arrangements and decorative items, you can craft a stunning centrepiece that sets the tone for your Christmas Dinner. Don’t forget to balance your aesthetics with functionality to ensure your guests are comfortable and the table is both beautiful and practical.

Now off you go to entertain, eat, drink and of course be merry!