SYLVIA PARK'S STEPS TO A BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS TABLE

Lifestyle

06 December 2016

Gathering your nearest and dearest is what Christmas is really all about but if you want to wow them with your table decorating skills it's actually pretty simple, here's how:

1. CLOTH THE TABLE

While a table cloth isn’t absolutely necessary, a table runner helps to draw the eye to an amazing centrepiece.

2. BEAUTIFUL PLACEMATS

Go for a large embellished style that can be seen beneath the plate. If you’re unsure of colour go for earthy neutrals like beige, white or gold.

3. SHOWCASE YOUR CUTLERY

A funky cutlery set can elevate the everyday. We love the gold and rose-gold options available at Stevens.

4. BEAUTIFUL GLASSWARE

Whether it be a simple stemless wine glass or your Nana’s finest crystal goblets, don’t be afraid to make a statement with your glasses.

5. SZHOOSH UP YOUR NAPKINS

A napkin ring is a simple way to make plain napkins look amazing. Simply insert the napkin and fluff out the ends.

6. A STATEMENT PLATE

White dinnerware is timeless but when you need to go ‘festive’, swap one plate out for a decorative pattern in a fun colour, perhaps the dessert bowl or dinner plate.

7. NOW FOR THE CENTREPIECE

You may choose to do your centrepiece first or last but there is no right or wrong way to go about it. The trick is to find objects that hint at your colour theme and what you are celebrating (Christmas) while also tying everything together.

8. ADD HEIGHT WITH CANDLES

Candles are a great way to create mood lighting. Sprinkle a few along the centre of the table and choose different heights to keep things interesting.

9. DECORATIONS AREN'T JUST FOR TREES

Save a few of your favourite tree decorations and toppers to place amongst the candles to add sparkle and of course, festive cheer.

10. ADD FOLIAGE / GREENERY

It might be real-life pine cones, pine needles, palm leaves or some flowers from the garden. Foliage looks great scattered carefully beneath or through your baubles and decorations. And if you don’t have fresh flowers, there are some amazing artificial options available to buy.

11. DON'T FORGET THE CRACKERS

Christmas crackers provide a lot of the fun for the occasion while also keeping things festive. Lay them on, above or to the side of your place settings to complete the look.

In need of a visual, check out our inspiration board below:

a /  Candles from Bed Bath & Table  b / Star tree topper from The Warehouse  c / Silver beads garland from The Warehouse  d / Fantail bauble from Acquisitions  e / Box of decorations from Bed Bath & Table   f / Fa la la la la wall banner from The Warehouse  g / Wine glass from Stevens  h / Christmas cracker from Stevens  i / Fork from Stevens  j / Placemat from Bed Bath & Table  k / Spoon from Stevens  l / Knife from Stevens  m / Napkin and holder from Bed Bath & Table  n / Red rimmed plate from The Warehouse