How to Deck Out Your Dining Table for the Holidays:
A Designer’s (And Probably Your Mom’s) Guide
Ah, the holiday season—a time for joy, laughter, and desperately trying to remember where you stored your good tablecloth from last year. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family gathering or a festive dinner party that somehow got out of control, your holiday dining table deserves to be the star of the show. After all, what says “Happy Holidays” better than a table so beautifully decorated no one dares to sit at it? Here’s a foolproof guide (or at least a “give it your best shot” guide) to turning your holiday dining table into the masterpiece it was always meant to be.
1. Pick a Color Palette (That Doesn’t Make Your Eyes Hurt)
First things first, pick a color palette that won’t have your guests squinting in confusion. Classic choices like red, green, and gold scream “holiday,” but if you’re feeling adventurous, why not go for soft grays, champagne (the color, though the drink helps too), and metallics? Keep it to two or three colors unless your theme is “Festive Explosion” or “My Five-Year-Old Helped.”
2. Layer Your Table Linens Like You’re Building a Holiday Sandwich
Start with a tablecloth—the foundation of your table’s holiday makeover. Go for a solid color or a pattern that won’t clash with Aunt Margaret’s floral dress. Add a table runner because layersare chic. Velvet? Woven? Sure, whatever makes it look expensive! Just make sure it’s long enough to look intentional, not like you cut it from leftover wrapping paper.
3. Fancy Dinnerware: This Is the Moment It’s Been Waiting For
Remember that fancy china you registered for but have only used once? Dust it off, this is its time to shine! If you’re more of a “mismatched minimalist,” mix and match your modern plates with grandma’s old stuff for that effortless, “I totally meant to do that” look. Keep your dinnerware balanced with your table linens. Got loud linens? Calm plates. Boring linens? Go wild with those decorative plates. Balance is key, people.
4. Seasonal Centerpieces: Go Big or Go Table-Breaking Big
Now it’s centerpiece time, a.k.a. “let’s see how much greenery we can shove in here.” Fresh pine branches, eucalyptus, maybe some holly? Your table is now a forest! If your guests are getting lost in the foliage, you’ve probably gone too far. Add some candles because nothing says “festive” like open flames near flammable plants. Pro tip: battery-operated candles exist for a reason. And for those who like a little bling, toss in some metallic accents. It’s the holidays—shine on!
5. Place Settings: Time to Flex Your Inner Martha Stewart
Let’s talk place settings—this is where you make it clear you’ve got your life together (even if you don’t). Chargers? Yes, those fancy under-plate plates that make it seem like you know what you’re doing. Napkins can be folded neatly or tied with a napkin ring if you’re feeling fancy. Add a sprig of rosemary or a little ornament for that extra “I’m better at this than you” touch.
6. Thoughtful Details: A Little Extra, But In a Good Way
Want to impress your guests? Place cards are a great way to make it clear who’s allowed to sit where, avoiding awkward seating arrangements (we’re looking at you, Cousin Mike). And nothing says “I’m a thoughtful host” like small party favors at each seat. Chocolates, ornaments, or perhaps a tiny bottle of holiday cheer (a.k.a. mini booze).
7. Functionality: Remember, People Need to Eat Here
As gorgeous as your table looks, don’t forget to leave some space for actual food. Guests need to see each other, too, so keep centerpieces low enough that they don’t have to play peek-a-boo over the turkey. And hey, if you’re running out of space for chairs, you might need a bigger table (or smaller friends).
Conclusion: You’ve Got This—Probably
By following these steps, your holiday dining table will be the envy of Social Media. Whether you’re leaning into traditional vibes or aiming for modern chic, the key is to make it look effortless—after hours of painstaking effort, of course. So, grab your garlands, polish your silverware, and remember: if all else fails, dim the lights and serve more wine.
Happy decorating!
Designer JT Norman