Christmas Table Setting

 I hope you have enjoyed the tips I have shared over the past few weeks for creating new and unique ways to decorate your home for the Christmas season. However, like all good things, the Christmas edits must come to an end. Today is the final series and the one that is most dear to my heart. I have shared my tried and true secrets for creating a breathtaking Christmas table setting, one that is sure to impress your guests.

Now that we have created a magical, winter wonderland in our homes and Turkey day has come and gone, it’s time to create a Christmas table setting fit for a king! We host Christmas day for family and friends who might not be near their family. I like to create an intimate and impressive setting. I also want the dining table to be practical for the entire month of December. To see what you missed in the previous blog posts check out Christmas Tree Edit, Garland Edit, and Styling Small Spaces.

1. Focal Point

Regardless of the shape of your table, start the decorating process by creating a focal point. You can do so by using a variety of pieces or one large piece, think vases, sets of trees, candlesticks/holder, etc.). My go-to centerpiece (that never disappoints) is a silver urn filled with seasonal flowers and branches. To create layers to your table, add different textures and materials to your centerpiece. I found this centerpiece at our local At Home store; I simply added the gold decorative garland to it. To do this, I cut the garland into pieces and randomly added them into the arrangement. Ornaments and Christmas picks are a great way to add glamour and sparkle into your tablescape. Use floral wire to secure your stems to the branches. Now that our centerpiece is in place we want to continue to add layers. Garland is an excellent complement to a centerpiece, creating a luxurious but understated statement. In this case, I used this wreath around our arrangement. See how I styled my dining table for Thanksgiving. I enjoy keeping the table setting basic so that I can add to or take away for the different holidays. This not only saves time but also saves money.

SHOP THE TABLE SETTING

2. Ambiance

You want to create an inviting setting for your guests and nothing is more welcoming than the warm glow of candlelight. Fire can be worrisome with kids running around but there are other great options available to give you the same glow. This year I am OBSESSED with battery power lights. The options are limitless; you get the same warm glow with no fuss. Fairy lights can be used to create a runway down your table, to fill vases, or to the top of your garland. I found these fantastic monochromatic bulb battery power lights that perfectly match the tone set in our living and kitchen space.

3. Personalized Touches

I get sentimental when designing and creating the special touches for our Christmas table setting, getting lost in the thought of our loved ones gathered around for hours with music and laughter feeling the room. Creating a custom place setting does not have to be elaborate, but I promise it has a huge impact. If you have the gift of calligraphy (or pretty handwriting), get blank place cards at the craft store and get busy letting your creativity flow. I am a lefty with zero handwriting skills. My mom used her vinyl machine to add our names to these place cards. Another option I love is a single initial ornament to add even more glitz to your table. Layer it onto the napkins or plates and make your guests feel special!

CHRISTMAS DECOR

4. Surrounding Areas

When the holiday décor totes come out of the closet, it is time for my beloved fig trees to move to their temporary home, my husband’s office. As much as I love them, they clash with my Christmas decor but they leave quite a void in the dining room. I couldn’t leave the empty space so I created a cozy setting styled with a basket stuffed with pillows and a blanket. A pre-lit tree and festive bar cart completed the corner.

SHOP DINING ROOM AND KITCHEN

SHOP BAR CART ACCESSORIES

Bar Widgets:

I also wanted to include a quick demonstration on how to set a casual table setting.

Follow these few easy steps, and I have no doubt you will create a spectacular Christmas tablescape, one that will have all your guests asking for your tips! I have loved sharing my design tips and tricks for creating a winter wonderland in your home. Thank you for coming along for the ride. I can’t wait to see what you all have created. Share them with me on Instagram using the hashtag #mrichristmas so I can share them!