There is nothing better to come home to after a day in the cold than a house full of Christmas sparkle and magic. Decorating your home for Christmas is one of life’s many joys… or burdens, depending on how you feel about it. The best thing about home décor is there is no right or wrong way to do it but if you fear that your décor often looks a bit of a muddle and want to make a great impression on your guests, then follow our guidelines below to create a winning combination that you can use again and again for years to come.
Make a Plan
When you don’t know where to start, the best way is to make a plan of all the things you will need to lay out on your dinner table. Ask yourself the important questions, like the following:
• How many guests are visiting for dinner?
• What are you cooking for dinner?
• What is your serving style? (On the Table/Buffet)
• How many plates/glasses/serving dishes will be on the table?
• Who is sitting where?
Decide on a Colour Scheme
The best way to create a cohesive and well put together design is to decide on a colour scheme. We recommend that you start out with 2 colours and as you grow more confident in your style you can add another in, or perhaps even 2! You can be as traditional or as individual as you like with your choices, though ideally you would match the colours to the rest of your Christmas décor.
Measure Up
A Christmas dinner table tends to be busier than most; if you’re worried about space on your table then why not set up a mock dinner beforehand? Place all your serving dishes, plates and crockery and glassware on the table to see where any gaps may appear. It may even be the case that you have more than one table to consider. Once you are happy with the overall layout, take a picture so that you remember on the day!
Choosing your Centrepiece
There are few things merrier than a floral Christmas centrepiece and there are many styles and configurations to be had. When discussing your design with your local florist, consider some of the following points:
• Will your centrepiece remain on the table while dinner is being served? If so, give some thought to the height of the piece.
• Would you like candles to be included in the arrangement, or will you arrange them separately on your table?
• Do you have a special bowl/vase/jug that you would like your centrepiece to be arranged in? Make sure to take it in with you!
• How long do you need it to last? If your schedule only allows you to collect your flowers a week before the big day arrives, consider which flowers you will use in the arrangement and where you place it in your home until then. Your florist will be able to advise you on how to take care of your flowers, but if you forget to ask then do check out our short guide on how to care for flowers in winter!
However you decide to decorate your Holiday table, we hope that you have a wonderful festive season filled with warmth, family and happiness!
