By Neha Mehrotra
22-Dec-2023
For some, the star of the festive season is the Christmas tree and the decorations; for others, it’s a Christmas feast. And if you are hosting a Christmas brunch this year, it’s time to up the ante with your dining table decor. Tablescaping is a great way to express your personality and inject individuality into the home. Moreover, going the extra mile with your tablescaping is a surefire way to foster a party atmosphere and is guaranteed to get your guests into the festive spirit. Regardless of the style you opt for in your dining room this Christmas, there are certain essentials that the tablescape experts agree are non-negotiable. We've rounded up some essential tips to help you transform your brunch table into a festive masterpiece.
Have a Colour Scheme in Mind
It goes without saying that a colour scheme can really make or break a table setting, and with Christmas, it becomes even more important. With the Christmas tree and decorations already adorning your home, coordinating your table decor with these elements can enhance the overall festive ambiance. To make it feel even more Christmassy, try going for a colour on your tablecloth or table runner. It doesn't have to just be one colour either; pick one main one and then two accent colours. You can go for rich mulberry, gold, and spice colours to conjure up the essence and spirit of Christmas.
Layer with Linens
Adding layers to your table setting not only introduces texture and visual intrigue but also provides a delightful feast for the eyes. Begin by establishing the foundation with a tablecloth or runner, then build layers by stacking plates and crockery atop placemats for your place settings. Elevate the visual appeal by incorporating seat decorations and placing cutlery on napkins to introduce patterns and textures to your Christmas table. The multiple layers contribute to a captivating and impressive table arrangement. However, ensure that the chosen tones harmonise with the overall decor, and consider incorporating fabrics such as velvet combined with soft cottons or layered linen to create a gentle yet luxurious feel.
Add Drama to the Table
While setting up a table, it is important to create a stunning centrepiece to add drama to your decor. If you have space on your table, you can go all out with oversized ornaments, seasonal winter flowers, or a bunch of tapered candles in a candelabra for your centrepiece. However, consider using Christmas garlands, fairy lights, or suspending decorations above the table if you have a narrow space. Remember, when it comes to Christmas table decorations, always start with the centrepiece because it will help to construct the rest of your theme and figure out space. Your tabletop shouldn't be overcrowded, as you'll need room for serving dishes and glassware.
Light Up the Table
Lighting is essential for any good dinner party, and there's an undeniable charm in the warm, flickering glow of candles. Adding soft, layered dining room lighting like lamps, string lights, and candlelights not only adds aesthetic beauty but also serves a practical purpose. Opting for a mix of candlestick holders and various candle colours adds a bold and colourful touch to your tablescape, especially if you lack matching holders. Additionally, candlesticks are a great way to add height to the table without taking up too much space. For a creative touch, you can repurpose old jam jars into mini lanterns to safeguard your centrepiece from potential mishaps.
Weave Some Foliage
Add a touch of nature to your Christmas table with flowers and foliage. Opt for sprawling vines or elegant vases of white hydrangeas that match your tableware. You can even choose seasonal greens like pine branches or eucalyptus and arrange them as a centrepiece in a decorative vase or along the table edges. Further, to add pops of colour, consider placing smaller bud vases with roses and vibrant poinsettias on the table.
Be Careful of the Cutlery Placement
A well-laid cutlery set can add an extra level of formality to your tablescape. As a general guideline, when setting or using table cutlery, start from the outside and work your way in. Place the starter cutlery on the outermost edges, with the main course knife and fork closer to the plate. Maintain the tradition of positioning knives to the right and forks to the left. Additionally, position the dessert spoon above the plate to complete the well-organised and formal arrangement. To add more detail to your table, you can create personalised name cards and thoughtfully arrange them.
By Smriti Choudhary
