When it comes to the holidays, some of my most cherished memories were created by sitting around the table enjoying that special holiday meal with family and friends, Grandma’s egg soufflé soup, the smell of roasted turkey in the air, the elegant table set with family heirlooms, the sounds of crackling wood in the fireplace and laughter filling all spaces of the home. It is those memories and carrying on family traditions to me is what the holidays are truly about.
Whichever holiday you are going to be celebrating, setting the holiday table is a time- honored tradition. Think about all the new memories that will be created and the smiles you will see seated all around that beautiful, festive table with your heirloom china, grandma’s silver, and your mother’s crystal glassware proudly set and displayed for all to enjoy.
When setting your holiday table there are certain rules that must be followed such as properly placing the silverware, glassware, china and napkin. However, when decorating your table there is a lot more flexibility to be creative and have some fun! The color palette and design theme for your holiday table should reflect your taste and personality. It’s a great way to add some whimsy and dazzle your guests with your fabulous creativity.
The foundation of your holiday table is the textile you choose for your runner or tablecloth and napkins. Go with a neutral color and pattern, rather than a holiday theme and remember it’s all about the layering of other elements on top of that foundation. Color can be added with the other items that you will be placing onto the table.
Next is the centerpiece, think about adding a garland of greenery with winter fruits down the center of the table or an eye catching decorative floral arrangement that incorporates the colors that you have selected for your theme. Keep in mind that whatever you chose for your centerpiece, it should be low enough for guest to see across the table and large enough that it creates a beautiful focal point for all to enjoy.
An easy and inexpensive way to add some drama to the dinner table is to include candles. Aim for a mix of tapers and votives scattered down the length of the table and don’t skimp for you can never have too many. Nothing sets the mood better than candlelight with its warm, luminous glow.
Next, place your china, silverware, glassware and napkins properly onto the table. Use the photo bellow as your guide.
Lastly add those decorative finishing touches to your holiday table. These design elements can add that bit of holiday magic to your table. There really is no right or wrong way to do so, just be creative and have fun! Add some antique ornaments of various sizes carefully placed here or there on the tables top, or festive ribbons weaving in and out of your candle bases, old fashion candies sprinkled throughout, and/or classic British holiday crackers placed at each place setting.
