Celebrate the season by feasting in style

Christmas is the perfect time of year to go all out with your table decoration. If you're hosting a small intimate gathering or catering for the whole family, discover our tips for inspirational tablescaping. Whether you prefer glitz and glamour, a refined nordic style or a traditional festive scheme featuring classic reds and greens, the first step to a stylish table is to select your colour palette. You can base your design scheme on existing decor or choose tablescape theme to work beautifully alongside your Christmas tree, the choice is yours.

Consider your table coverings

Add to the feel of Christmas luxury by layering tablecloths to set the scene and act as the foundation for elevating your favourite pieces. A white tablecloth, or white with a hint or sparkle is a great base for adding your tableware and festive flourishes. Be sure to add an additional 40-60cm to your table size when measuring for your tablecloth to allow for sufficient overhang. If you are opting for a more minimalist style, a simple table runner or swag of greenery (there are some great imitation garlands available) along the centre of your table will add colour and texture without covering if you want to show off your table. McAlister Textiles have a great range of velvet table runners in 25 colours, perfect as a foundation for your table decor. Runners can be used either across the length or width of the table depending on the sizes and how you arrange your place settings.

Layer your tableware

If you're hosting a large gathering you may need to mix and match your plates and glasses. This can add interest and rhythm to your table scape providing it works within the theme. Consider using silver or gold oversized charger plates underneath standard white tableware to add instant glamour. Tie in cutlery and glassware with the metallic accent, whether this be gold, silver or copper details and if you're browsing for some new additions to your tableware, metallic goblets are this years trending item for your festive table.

Finishing touches

The accessories and details you choose will help bring your look together. A simple table centrepiece picking out the colours from your theme may be all you need or you can add drama and height to your table with mini trees, tall candles or candelabras. Tea lights, candles or led micro lights are a must to create a twinkling magical ambience. Add interest to your place settings with sprigs of greenery or an interesting personalised bauble or small wrapped gift for your guests to take home instead of the traditional cracker.

Choose your theme

Luxury Alpine

Choose a neutral colour palette with soft silver and white, introducing fresh greenery and relaxed linens to your table scape. Add natural materials such as pine cones and wooden platters for texture and an organic feel.

Jewel Brights

Select bold bright jewel tones of amethyst, sapphire, jade, fuchsia pink and bright green and layer the table with velvet runners or tablecloths in deep colours with gold accents for a rich opulent feel.

Timeless Evergreen

Style with Pine and Eucalyptus greens, silver greys, warm naturals and snowy whites to capture the beauty of winter's subtle colour palette.

Classic Christmas

A comforting traditional combination of red and green along with natural materials is the foundation for a classic scheme. Incorporate patterns and motifs which sit together in the colour group without looking too formal. The Classic Christmas table scape can include the finest china with gold accessories and accents to add to the sense of occasion, or for a more rustic look opt for tableware with a more organic feel, handmade items and stoneware.

We'd love to see how you've styled your festive tables this year. Follow us on Instagram and tag your pics with #mcalistertextiles