YOUR HOLIDAY TABLE

The holidays are the best time to expand your table setting décor and add some glamour and fun. Don’t be afraid to play with colors and patterns that are non-traditional. Red and green aren’t the only colors that can be used. Other great holiday colors include purple, teal, gold, silver, white, lime green, and blue.


Photo: House Beautiful

Your table setting will depend on how elaborate or simple you want it to be and how much time and money you want to spend on the décor. An elaborate setting can include a table cloth or runner, placemats, chargers, dinner and silverware, napkins, name cards, and even an individual gift for each guest. You don’t have to have everything and simple is usually better anyway.



Photo: Martha Stewart

This table setting is simple, fun and inexpensive. The candles can be made by tying red and white ribbons around white, unscented candles. Be sure the candles are unscented or have a very light scent. Otherwise when they are lit, they will overpower the table with their scent. The name cards can also be easily made by tying two peppermint sticks together with ribbon and placing the name card in between. Decorate the rest of the table with white bowls filled with peppermint stripe candy.



Photo: House Beautiful

Another simple way to add something extra to the table is by hanging Christmas bulbs above in a variety of different sizes and colors. These silver bulbs add glamour and whimsy to this holiday table. Stick with one or two different colors and styles. Adding to many bulbs may make the table look overwhelmed.



Photo: Country Living

A great way to make your dining experience more festive is to place your tree near or in the same room as your dining table. This way your guests can gaze at the beautiful tree while enjoying the holiday meal. You can also coordinate your tree decorations with your table decorations to create a theme.



Photo: Good Housekeeping

An easy centerpiece you can make yourself is colored pine cones. Collect pine cones outside and lay them out to dry for a couple days. Next, pick a couple colors of spray paint that coordinate with the rest of your holiday décor. Paint the cones, let dry, then display in clear glass bowls in the center of the table.



Photo: Good Housekeeping

When creating your holiday table, look around the house for things you may already have that can be made into something new. Your mother’s old doilies can be sewn together to make a beautiful snowflake table runner. They can also be sewn together to make individual placemats.



Photo: Good Housekeeping

Transform each guest’s place setting into a present by tying a bow around the entire setting. You can use satin ribbon for an elegant look or tulle for a lighter look. This is an easy way to add an extra touch to the place settings you already have.



Photo: Martha Stewart

If you want to spend the extra time and money, you can also do an elegant display with fresh flowers and taper candles. This would be perfect if you are hosting a more formal party with a large number of guests.

However you decide to decorate your table this holiday season, have fun and think outside the box. Small touches here and there can make a big difference in the overall presentation of your holiday meal. Don’t forget to search your home and the outdoors for materials that can be reused in your décor. Finally, keep in mind that your table décor can be completed a day or two before your meal, leaving more time to cook and spend time with family. Have fun, Happy Holidays!