Setting an unforgettable holiday table

Dec 05, 2012 12:44 AM by
Posted in Food & Recipes / Entertaining / Entertaining Checklists & Tips

A Holiday To Remember

It’s time to dust off the china set and dress your table for the holidays! Every table setting could use a touch of festive class, but what’s the trick for achieving that magazine look? These five tips will freshen up your holiday table with a look that is unforgettable!
1—Hit repeat
Photo credit: Kelli Uhrich, ahappyplacecalledhome.com

1

Hit repeat

Don’t reserve the repeat button for just your iPod. Tying a classy look together is as simple as replication of the elements. Place items, like silverware, napkins, glasses and embellishments in the same arrangement for each place setting, and position your settings evenly around the table. In addition to place setting items, repeat colors, textures and finishes within your arrangement. Use a tablecloth or runner with an inspiring fabric to reference for your selection choices. Repeating all elements within your setting will create unity, resulting in a tailored look.

2—Color outside the lines
Photo credit: Kelli Uhrich, ahappyplacecalledhome.com

2

Color outside the lines

Holidays are centered on over-the-top decor, so let your hair down and go big with color! For Christmas, using a vibrant red within your table setting is an instant winner. Not only will this color turn your table into an instant focal point, but it will excite your guests with its festive nature. Accent this lively color with a crisp white for a look as perfect as a candy cane.

Additional holiday color combinations:

  • Navy blue and silver
  • Silver and gold
  • Green and gold
  • White, silver and blue
  • Red, green and white
3—Find strength in numbers
Photo credit: Kelli Uhrich, ahappyplacecalledhome.com

3

Find strength in numbers

Rule of thumb — anything can become an artistic display when grouped together in numbers. This means creating a unique centerpiece has never been easier! Take a trip to your local dollar store to find inexpensively-priced holiday items to use within your setting, or browse through your personal collection of holiday decor and pull out coordinating items.

4—Surprise trinkets
Photo credit: Kelli Uhrich, ahappyplacecalledhome.com

4

Surprise trinkets

Use your table decor as a creative way to give party favors to your guests. Place small ornaments, candles or gift boxes within each place setting. Or, fill a small stocking with holiday treats and hang them from each chair.

Additional holiday favor ideas:

  • Coffee mugs with packets of coffee, tea or cocoa
  • Chocolate bars and candies
  • Wine stoppers
  • Cookie cutters and cookies
Go beyond the table
Photo credit: Kelli Uhrich, ahappyplacecalledhome.com

5

Go beyond the table

To make your holiday table truly memorable, don't stop at just the table! Instead, continue your theme to other surfaces within your home that are visible from the table. Include side tables, bars, consoles, china cabinets, shelves, fireplace surrounds and other surfaces where holiday decor will enhance your table setting. Hang holiday bunting over window sills and garland from the mantel. Adding these touches won't distract from your dressed-up table — they'll only make your table feel right at home!

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Comments

Comments on "Setting an unforgettable holiday table"

Lauren December 05, 2012 | 3:10 PM

Awesome tips. It's all about having a super festive table this holiday season! I agree that it's important to go beyond the table as well. Thanks for the inspiration!

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