If you’re new here, I kicked off the holiday season with my own version of Blogmas: 12 Days of Christmas. Today, I’m sharing 9 amazing tips for styling your Christmas tablescape this year. From your serving ware to your music, there’s something on the list below that can spruce up your holiday hosting.
1. Add a soft but welcoming seasonal scent
Use candles, potpourri or a diffuser to add a seasonal fragrance to your home. My favorite scents this year are Christmas Cabin from Southern Elegance Candle Company and Fig Tree from The White Company.
One piece of advice: don’t put the scents on the table but put them on a nearby sideboard or end table. This will prevent the scent from overwhelming your guests, especially when it’s time to eat.
2. Add hints of Christmas greenery to the table
Last year, I ran pre-lit flocked garland down the center of the table and it created the coziest ambiance. Here’s a reel I shared on Instagram of the whole thing. Whether it’s flocked garland or bundles of fresh pine needles at each table setting, greenery is a great way to enhance your dinner table.
3. Add Christmas serveware
Seasonal bakeware is always a hit during Christmas but if it’s not your thing, include Christmas serveware. And have fun with more than just the serving plates and bowls. Use Christmas oven mitts, holiday spatulas like this one from Williams-Sonoma or a Christmas cheeseboard like the one I found here.
Related: Shop My Holiday Dinnerware Faves
4. Select a theme or color scheme
Going for a traditional look? Choose a traditional color scheme like red, green and gold. Want a rustic look? Infuse woody scents and rustic serveware. Pick the theme or vibe you want then create it using everything from lighting to fragrance to dinnerware.
5. Serve a seasonal drink
Make one of your own or find a recipe online. You can even serve two versions of the same drink: one with alcohol and one without so everyone around the table can enjoy it.
6. Add seasonal flowers
It’s poinsettia season! Add some to your table or classic red roses. Here’s an article with more options if poinsettias and red roses aren’t your thing.
7. Keep a playlist on rotation
If you’ve ever read any of my blog posts about hosting, you’ll know I always vouch for a playlist. Create a holiday playlist and keep it playing.
Note: keep the volume loud enough that your guests can hear it but low enough that they easily talk to the person across the table.
8. Include small gifts at each place setting
When I say small, I mean small. Put a small box of mini cookies, seasonal chocolates or peppermint bark at each place setting. Make it special by dressing them up in wrapping paper and ribbon.
9. Dress up your stemware
Add artificial cranberry stems to wine or champagne glasses to dress them up or garnish with sprigs of rosemary and curled orange peels.
Hosting and attending parties is one of my favorite aspects of the holiday season. Use this list of 9 amazing tips for styling your Christmas tablescape at your next Christmas dinner or share it with a friend who’s hosting this year.
