6 Easy Steps to Create the Most Festive Christmas Table Settings

Christmas is easily one of the biggest events in the calendar each year — it’s the perfect opportunity to relax and celebrate a long year with your nearest and dearest. So, after a day of toiling away to make sure the house is clean and the food is cooked to perfection, it’s time to turn your attention to creating a dreamy Christmas table setting. But don’t worry — it’s easier than it sounds.

No matter your Christmas style, there’s a few handy tricks to help you create a cozy and festive setting, and it doesn’t involve running to the store to come back with armfuls of cutlery either (unless you’re going to get candles, in which case you can’t ever have too many!). To help you create a beautiful setting with items on hand, Marjorie Silva, the senior stylist at homewares retailer The Home shared her top tips.

1. Color Palette

For a traditional Christmas table with a twist, start with a neutral palette — and no, this doesn’t just mean monochrome. Whether you’re aiming for a classic red and green, or a more contemporary silver and blue Nordic interpretation, there’s a Christmas color palette that will work for you. If your table has some flaws, get a tablecloth that covers the entire table to hide any imperfections.

2. Tableware

When it comes to tableware, stick to traditional crystal glasses and white linens if you’re looking for something classic. If you have a set on hand, gold cutlery sets can definitely add a pop of luxury and warmth to the traditional red and green.

3. Festive Florals

Dust off any pewter, brass, or silver vessels and give them new life as lovely textural vases. Filling them doesn’t have to be expensive — look around your garden (or neighborhood) for clues of seasonal florals and fruit such as bottle-brushes and eucalyptus leaves.

4. Table Details

Place a sprig of rosemary on top of your guests’ napkins and fill some smaller bowls with spices such as cinnamon sticks or clover to add style, texture, and aroma to your table. If you’re feeling particularly crafty, try making your own Christmas coasters or Christmas table wreath for an extra pop of personality.

5. Centerpiece

A centerpiece doesn’t have to be a giant floral arrangement — group candles together to create a simple yet elegant centerpiece for the table. If you are adding florals, make sure the end result isn’t too tall, so as to obscure faces and make it harder for those sitting opposite to chat with one another.

6. Make It Personal

Assigned seating isn’t a requirement, but it can be a nice touch so each guest knows they have been considered. Put some thought into which guests have more in common and seat them next to each other. Why not add a personal touch with handwritten place cards? Your guests will certainly appreciate the effort!

This article was originally written by Homes to Love editors. For more, check out our sister site, Homes to Love.

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