5 styling tips for a festively set table
Before you know it, the holidays will be upon us again, which means good times, delicious food and… a beautifully set table! Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, a festive brunch or simply a cosy meal with friends, the right styling can turn your table into a real eye-catcher. We’re happy to help you get started with these 5 styling tips for a festively set table that everyone will be happy to gather around.
Setting the table for a celebration
The celebration is almost here, you already have your finest outfit ready, but then… the table! Of course, it can’t be left behind. A festively set table is the calling card of your Christmas dinner. With these tips, your table will be ready for Christmas in no time, and so will you. Just remember that while styling is important, the food is still the star of the show. Well, after you, of course!
1. Tablecloth and napkins as a foundation
Don’t have a beautiful tablecloth at home? You can visit a thrift shop to look for vintage pieces that give your table a unique character. Do you have a beautiful wooden table? Then simply leave it visible for a natural, warm look. Want to add something extra? Choose a simple white cloth or table runner and place some pine branches or twigs from the Christmas tree on top for a subtle, festive atmosphere.
Napkins are the cherry on top; fold them nicely and place them on top of the plates or beside them. No idea how to fold a napkin? Don’t worry, you can always use the classic “scrunch and hope” technique. It gives a casual look. But for those who want to impress: Google “how to fold a napkin” – believe me, there are YouTube videos for it.
2. Crockery and glasses
Make sure everyone has the right glass for the right drink. Wine? Put out a wine glass. Water? That deserves a different glass. No matching crockery? No panic! Simply mix and match what you have. It doesn’t all have to match; that playful effect is precisely what makes it fun and cosy. Put your finest glasses on the table, or use those fun glasses if you want to keep things informal. Anything goes, as long as it invites people to enjoy a convivial meal. The cutlery should, of course, be in the right place: forks on the left, knives on the right, and spoons if you’re serving soup.
3. Candles for atmosphere
Candles immediately create a warm atmosphere. You can put anything on the table, such as tea lights, dinner candles or pillar candles. Choose a few tall candle holders if you want a dramatic effect, or place some tea lights for a subtler touch. Just watch out for the sea of flames. You want your guests to melt over the food, not from the heat of a candle that’s too close to their napkin.
4. Use nature
A little greenery instantly makes your table festive, and it doesn’t have to be difficult. Go outside and collect twigs, pine cones or a few loose flowers. Put them in small vases or place a sprig of rosemary or eucalyptus on each plate. It not only looks beautiful, it also smells wonderful. Keep it modest, though; you don’t need to create a jungle on the table. A subtle floral arrangement or a few loose flowers in a vase will do the trick. Bonus points if the flowers don’t bend towards the plates as though they also want to enjoy the food.
5. Make it personal
A few small details really finish off your table. Think handwritten place cards or a small decoration on each plate, such as a photo or a nicely folded napkin. It’s a simple way to make your guests feel welcome without requiring much time or effort. Another fun idea: use a paper tablecloth and write something personal at each person’s place.
With these simple yet atmospheric styling tips, you’ll be completely ready to welcome your guests to a beautiful table. Remember: it’s not about perfection, but about creating a warm, cosy atmosphere in which everyone feels at home. So gather your favourite items, be creative and, above all, enjoy being together.
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