6 Tips for the Perfect Christmas Table Decor

Getting the perfect Christmas table decor means taking the decorations, the menu and your guests into account. Want to learn how it's done?
6 Tips for the Perfect Christmas Table Decor

Last update: 21 November, 2019

We’re just a few weeks away from enjoying one of the most anticipated meals of the year – Christmas dinner. For some of you, it might be the first time you’ve ever hosted the event, and you may feel a little bit lost. From the menu and the presents to the staging and decor, there are so many things to think about. Today, we want to tell you some of our best-kept secrets, so you can get the perfect Christmas table decor.

How to get the perfect Christmas table decor in 6 easy steps

1. Variety is the spice of life

Table decorations.

This year, it’s all about mixing and matching. Be daring, and leave the old, boring traditions far behind. To get the perfect Christmas table decor, you need to combine a variety of different colors, textures, and materials.

Yes, we’re throwing the rule book out the window. Forget about finding matching sets and combine a range of different cutlery, crockery, and glassware. This year’s trends also encourage us to combine gold and silver, rather than going straight for the classic red and green combo.

2. Christmas table decor -table cloths

Table cloths.

To get the perfect Christmas table decor, you need to choose a tablecloth that reaches right down to the ground. Remember, the table cloth forms the basis upon which you will build your entire display – decorations, flowers, candles and everything else.

Don’t forget to check that your tablecloth is clean and neatly ironed. As an extra precaution, we recommend laying a sheet under your tablecloth to make sure your table doesn’t get scratched or stained.

3. Dinner by candlelight

Candles.

No Christmas table decor would be complete without candles. Be sure to use candle holders – they’re safer and will help you avoid accidents. Combining different shapes and colors will give your display a casual yet glamorous look. Candlelight is perfect for giving your dinner table a feeling of warmth and intimacy and will make your Christmas night simply magical.

One more thing about the candles: try to choose odorless candles, rather than scented. This will allow the mouthwatering smell of food to permeate the room.

4. Christmas table decor – centerpieces

Christmas dinner decor.

Your centerpiece should be in proportion with the size of the table – make sure it doesn’t take vital space away from your guests. The plates, cups, and cutlery are equally important, and your centerpiece shouldn’t get in the way.

It’s also important to make sure the centerpiece doesn’t make it difficult for your guests to access the food or talk to each other. Don’t choose enormous centerpieces that they’re constantly having to lean around just so that they can see the person sitting opposite them.

One really popular idea is to swop the single large centerpiece for several small decorations spread out along the length of the table. This will give your display a much more casual look.

When it comes to centerpieces, there is a huge variety on the market. Mistletoe, eucalyptus, and poinsettia are the stars of the season and will brighten up any Christmas spread. Make sure the plants you choose don’t drop petals or flowers easily, as they will likely fall into your food.

5. Guests are the most important thing

Napkins and gifts.

At the end of the day, the perfect Christmas dinner can only happen thanks to the people sitting at that table. You cook for them and fill your home with beautiful decorations so that they feel special and loved.

Remember, each guest will need approximately 30″ of space at the table to be able to eat comfortably.

Make a seating plan before your guests arrive, and make beautiful place cards for each person. If you really want to go all out, you could personalize the name cards even more, and leave small gifts around each place setting.

6. The menu

Christmas dinner.

Perhaps the most important aspect of the night is what you’re going to eat. Go beyond the conventional and traditional dishes, and dare to create a menu that will surprise and delight everyone sitting around the table. At the end of the day, this is one of the most special nights a year, and no one should go hungry.

You should also think about creating a separate children’s menu, providing them with different food you know they’ll like. Be sure to include them at the grown-ups’ table so that they can take part in the festivities.

There’s nothing wrong with a little indulgence during the festive season. So if you want to embellish your table with those golden decorations you thought were too over the top, or bring out that expensive china you never use, Christmas day is the perfect time to do it.