Over the years, I have done an enormous amount of entertaining. I have designed many holiday tables, from elegant formal parties, to casual holiday gatherings with friends. The holiday table has always been one of my favorite decorating projects in my home, or in my client’s homes. Recently I was asked to teach a seminar on holiday table decorating, so I prepared some of my decorating tips to help you create a perfect holiday table. So I thought I would share these tips for your holiday decorating.
1- Select your china- Consider mix and match china- I love mixing old and new. Vintage items, mixed with contemporary pieces will give your table a unique and personal look. Look for items with similar colors and patterns with similar scale. Hunt flea markets for vintage china and unique serving pieces. This will add personality and pattern to your table.
3- Design your centerpiece- Here is where you can really have some fun! Play with various items, check to see if size and proportion of your centerpiece or arrangement works for the size of your table. Use groupings or single items to bring your own unique style to the table.
4- Add something from nature- I’ve made centerpieces from so many natural elements, everything from pinecones, fruit, vegetables, branches, tree bark, and every nut, berry and greenery variety that I could find. Add paint, ribbon, candles…. just remember to clean everything thoroughly before bringing it in from the yard. I little goes a long way with natural elements, stick with one or 2 items in multiples.
5- Add the glow of candlelight- Candlelight is a great way to illuminate the holiday table. Candlelight bouncing off glassware and china will create a soft glow and add sparkle to the holiday table. Vary heights and sizes for a more interesting table.
6- Use place card- a great way to make you gusts feel welcomed. Simple homemade place cards are great, use your imagination!
7-Table linens- a beautiful wool blanket, a scarf, some crisp casual dish towels, if the colors coordinate. these items can make a beautiful unique choice for table covers, placemats, or napkins.
8- Decorative details- anything that adds your personal touch!
9- Choose Glassware- Choose complementary glassware. Mix and match!
10-Dress the chandelier- Consider decorating the chandelier if you have one over your table. Hang ornaments or greenery!
Even if you incorporate a few of these ideas in your home you will have great results!
I hope you will enjoy creating your own holiday table! Have fun and enjoy entertaining your friends and family!
