With the turkey to stuff, presents to open, and guests to look after, creating your
Christmas tabletop should be as stress free as possible. If you can, be sure to
schedule time to set the table before the festivities begin, giving yourself plenty of
time to craft your look. Start by thinking about the table’s theme, remembering
that it needs a focal point to tie the scheme together. Don’t create anything too tall
or big that will block guests’ view from one side of the table to the other. Hanging
a horizontal wreath decorated with glass bubbles from the ceiling is the perfect
statement piece for this scheme. However, if such a grand piece isn’t possible in
the space available, two tall and narrow candlesticks decorated with ivy are also a
simple and elegant option that will add visual height and interest.
With the focal point complete, lay gemstoned garlands along the length of the
table and weave amongst ivy–this echoes the candlestick centerpiece and will give
the romantic white, silver, and gold theme a more organic feel. Then place an assortment of votives amongst the gaps, using ones with a cracked-glazed finish for
a nod to the subtle vintage theme. Keep the place settings simple–a white ceramic
will works best, but use with a set of vintage flatware and tactile napkins to soften
the modernity. Finally, add in a few gold accents to break up the silver and white
tones–the votives are a perfect way to introduce the brass hues, as they shimmer
beautifully by candlelight.
3,
2.
1.
Will’s tip! A white
dinnerware set works
best in this elegant
tabletop; these delicately
patterned doily plates
bring enough vintage
edge without being twee.
4.
4,
6.
5,
1. Doily plate; anthropologie.eu;
2. Vintage silverware;
jaysonhome.com; $12.00
each
3. Jingle bell garland;
crateandbarrel.com; $19.95
4. Candle stick holders;
potterybarn.com; $49.00
5. Sommelier Wine Glasses;
marksandspencer.com;
£ 25.00 for 4
6. Three crown tea-lights;
marksandspencer.com; £ 9. 50
