CHRISTMAS: ON THE TABLE
As the epicentre of most family Christmas day celebrations, the table decorations are of utmost importance as they are key in stoking the festive mood. But relying on the same tired centrepiece each December is plain ol' boring. If you want to try something a bit different this Christmas, take some inspiration from these four table decoration themes...
Scandinavian
Photo by Marks & Spencer
The Danish concept of hygge made its way across the North Sea and quickly become one of our favourite interior themes. Inspiring a cool, Scandi style, hygge essentially means cosiness and comfort – put simply, achieving a sense of happiness. Think an abundance of candles, warm tea sipped from beautiful china and a cosy close-knit family-feel. And with Scandinavian countries topping the charts in happiness levels, it’s a style that we’re certainly pleased to embrace.
With their focus on loved ones and cosiness, hygee and the Scandi style lend themselves perfectly to the festive period and it couldn’t be easier to get the cosy, hygee look for your table settings.
Simply scatter the table cloth with everything that gives you that warm-and-fuzy feeling and you’ll be well on your way to Scandi bliss. Cosy candles are a great start, but if you’re concerned about little hands around the dinner table, you can get the same ‘warming’ effects with electric candles.
Do away with traditional Christmas table centrepieces and instead leave a few smaller touches around the table – this creates a less formal and softer feel – and pretty pine cones are an absolute must.
Jewel Tones
Photo by TI Media
When it comes to Christmas table decorations, sparkling jewel tones will take you to the next level of glamour and elegance! Combine opulent place settings and rich colour palettes for some Christmas day indulgence.
Place your usual candles in lanterns, or make your own using mason jars coloured with glass paint – these create a wonderful rich glow to the room. Set your places with plates and plenty of coloured napkins, then arrange textured tumblers and glasses in deep, rich hues across the table to finish off the look. With this style, colour really is key. Don’t be afraid to add some variety with a splash of luxurious metal to really top off your settings.
Rustic Enchanted Forest
Photo by Twisted Bramble
With lush conifers and picture-perfect snow scenes, the festive season is an ideal time to take table setting inspiration from the great outdoors. Fresh foliage and frost-covered greenery provide a great foundation for a magical Christmas table – simply add charming finishing touches to complete your enchanted forest look.
Kick things off with lots of plants: a potted evergreen or fresh seasonal flowers will make for a classic centrepiece this December. If you want to get the natural look without the risk of soil spilling onto the dinner table, try experimenting with fake foliage. Leftover branches from an old artificial Christmas tree are perfect for repurposing in this way.
To keep things fresh, add something unexpected to your settings – dried fruits or sticks of cinnamon. Want something more traditional? Holly and mistletoe are firm favourites when it comes to finishing off your festive dining table.
Go Modern With Colour
Photo by CHI CHI MOI
It might be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t warm things up indoors with some vibrant colour. Step away from traditional reds and greens to make way for bright lights and bold hues. Going off piste with your colour scheme is sure to surprise and delight your guests!
To get the look, buy some bright ribbon off-cuts from your local haberdashery and use them to hang colourful baubles. Experiment with sequins, buttons, strings and glitter to create your own decorative colour explosions. Then go all out with bold plates and cutlery to match. Want to tone things down a touch? Simply spice up your existing table settings with neon napkins and bright candles.