Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guides on trends, fashion, relationships and more
Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guides on trends, fashion, relationships and more
Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guides on trends, fashion, relationships and more
One of the best things about hosting during the holidays is the promise of drama when you set the dinner table.
Also, making an impact is also about having fun when you’re trying to create your centerpiece – bringing all the elements together for a cohesive scheme, and building the story you want to tell.
Here, experts share their top tips for achieving a look that matches your artistic aesthetic…
Decide on a theme and style
“This year I have decided to go for a modern Christmas table in black, khaki and white,” said Kelly Hoppen CBE, multi-award winning designer. “It’s festive and sophisticated.
“Everyone has their own preference for color or style…modern or traditional. The important thing to remember is that it’s all about layering textures, mixing colors, and adding special details that make you your own.
Start with the basics
Start by laying a green foundation, advises Hoppen. “I like to use a mix of real vintage fir and faux green, including soft puss willow.
“This layering creates texture and sets the tone. Place it in the center of the table as your base – it anchors the whole look.
Draw the eye with creative decorations
If the mission to decorate the Christmas table is to impress, create depth with key decorative accessories, said John Rastall, head of home at DFS.
“Hanging ornaments from a chandelier or ceiling will draw the eye, making an immediate impact without taking up valuable space on the table.
“The trick to making this look neat and discreet is to reflect the shape of the table. If you have a long rectangular table, extend the long decoration from end to end.
Rastall continues: “Or if you are working with a round table, try to gather the decorations in the middle and this glass with a vase of flowers in the center of the table.”
Meanwhile, Victoria Fletcher, senior buyer at Garden Trading says to make your table feel really special, start with simple, light paper decorations.
“Hang from an existing point like a chandelier, and stagger at different heights to add visual interest,” suggests Fletcher. “For a more spectacular look, combine individual stems and leaves.”
“Overhead installation also frees up space on the table for layered details such as candles, glassware, and decorative accents, while maintaining an open feel.
“It’s an elegant way to add height and seasonal charm to a festive setting, creating a warm and memorable atmosphere,” says Fletcher.
Pleasant wooden decoration
If you lean towards a more traditional theme, the current trend is to bring it outside, create a mystical forest and find the charm of the forest…
“In addition to incorporating nature into your tablescapes, the whimsical mushroom vibe can bring an enchanted feeling to other parts of your Christmas decor,” highlights Alysha Alli, lead interior design at Redrow.
“As for your Christmas table, you can add mushroom motifs, soft earth tones like green and beige, and woodland creatures such as deer and rabbits to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.”
“Enhance this look by incorporating natural materials like wood and ceramics, which can bring a rustic touch and an organic feeling to your space,” says Alli.
“Opt for paper wrapping or gift tags with whimsical illustrations, mushrooms or delicate patterns to reinforce the nature theme under the Christmas tree.”
‘Tis the season to shine
If you want your silverware to shine and welcome your guests with beautiful glamour, a stunning tablescape needs a little shimmer….
“It’s the perfect time to make your table look special, and add just a touch of sparkle,” says Chrissie Rucker OBE, founder of The White Company.
“I like to start with crisp white linen tablecloths, matching napkins and always use the best glassware – polished to reflect the light in the room – smart white porcelain and weighty cutlery.”
“Beaded beads and coasters add extra festivity, look great and add a magical glow – like mirrored scapers and, of course, many layers of wax, tall and small,” enthuses Rucker.
“I like to run a mix of tall and low candles in the center of the table – a good mix of tall but make sure you can talk,” she says.
For flowers, Rucker likes to stick to white and mix in lots of seasonal greens. “At each place, I tie a napkin with some greenery, a small ornament and a white heart gift tag, so that everyone knows where they are sitting.”
