Christmas is the perfect occasion to gather your loved ones around a beautifully decorated table. A successful Christmas table is more than just a tablecloth and plates: it tells a story, delights your guests and creates a warm atmosphere. Here’s our advice on how to sublimate your table and impress your guests.
1. Choose a Festive Theme
Choosing a theme helps to harmonize decorating elements. Here are a few inspirations:
- Classic and traditional: red, green and gold with motifs such as fir trees or stars.
- Scandinavian: Natural wood, white tones and touches of fir green for a refined ambience.
- Glamour: Metallic colors like gold and silver combined with glittering candles.
- Natural and rustic: fir branches, pine cones and linen tablecloths for a cosy atmosphere.
2. Elegant Tablecloths and Table Runners
- Opt for a quality plain tablecloth such as white or beige for a sober base.
- Add a table runner in fabric, sequins or jute, depending on your theme.
- If you prefer a table without tablecloths, a high-gloss varnish or well-maintained untreated wood can also do the trick.
3. Play with crockery and cutlery
- Use sober but chic crockery: white plates or plates with gold edges.
- Arrange your plates one above the other for an elegant effect (e.g., a large plate for the main course, topped by a small plate for the appetizer).
- Use matching cutlery and place it correctly (forks on the left, knives on the right, dessert spoon on top).
4. Add a Touch of Radiance with Glasses
- Prepare glasses for each type of drink: a water glass, a wine glass and, possibly, a champagne flute.
- For a glamorous touch, choose gold-patterned or engraved glasses.
5. Details that make a difference
Towels
- Fold your napkins into festive shapes (Christmas trees, stars, etc.) or hold them in place with a pretty napkin ring.
- Add a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick for a fragrant touch.
Guest Names
- Create personalized place cards with labels or small decorations such as baubles or cookies.
Guest Gifts
- Place a small gift or delicacy on each plate (chocolates, mini-candles, etc.).
6. Soft Light
- Candles: Use candlesticks or LED candles for soft, safe lighting.
- String lights: Place them along the table runner for a magical atmosphere.
- General lighting: dim the main lights for a cocooning effect.
7. Enhance with Natural Elements
- Add fir branches, pine cones or dried orange slices.
- Add winter flowers like eucalyptus or amaryllis for a fresh, elegant touch.
8. Create a spectacular centerpiece
The centerpiece is the focal point. Here are a few ideas:
- A raised flower arrangement.
- A tray with candles, pine cones and baubles.
- An enchanted mini-forest with miniature figurines and fir trees.
9. Harmonize Table Fragrances
Diffuse subtle scents reminiscent of Christmas: cinnamon, fir, orange or vanilla. Use diffusers, scented candles or potpourri sachets.
10. Test Before the Big Day
Set up your table a few days beforehand to check that everything matches. This will allow you to make any necessary adjustments.
Conclusion
Creating a stunning Christmas table is easy with a little forethought and imagination. Every element, from the tablecloth to the centerpiece details, contributes to a magical atmosphere. Remember, the most important thing is to bring your loved ones together in a warm, festive atmosphere.