Holiday Tablescapes and Entertaining
September 2024
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and gatherings with family and friends. It’s also the perfect time to showcase your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for your guests. Whether you’re hosting a large Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy Christmas get-together, updating your furniture and creating stunning tablescapes can make your home the star of the season. Here’s how you can do it.
Updating Furniture Ahead of the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect opportunity to assess your current furniture and make updates that will both impress your guests and provide the comfort needed for gatherings. In order to create a stunning and bespoke home that can be enjoyed throughout the holiday season, it’s important to work with an interior designer and start early. Custom order furniture can give you exactly the style and fit you desire for your space, but many pieces take twelve weeks between ordering and delivery. You can work with an interior designer on your timeline, and choose between custom and in-stock items as the calendar allows.
Luxurious Sofas and Sectionals
One of the key pieces of furniture that can transform your living space is a luxurious sofa or sectional. These pieces not only provide ample seating but also serve as the focal point of your living room.
Choose Comfort and Style: Look for sofas and sectionals that offer both comfort and style. Plush, deep-seated sofas in rich fabrics like velvet or high-quality leather can create an inviting atmosphere.
Consider Size and Layout: Depending on your space, a sectional might be more practical than a traditional sofa. Sectionals can accommodate more people and can be arranged in various configurations to suit your room’s layout.
Add Cozy Accents: Enhance the comfort of your seating area with soft throw pillows and warm blankets. Choose seasonal colors and patterns to add a festive touch.
Beautiful Dining Table Sets
The dining table is the heart of holiday gatherings, where family and friends come together to share meals and create memories.
Opt for Extendable Tables: If you frequently host large gatherings, an extendable dining table is a smart investment. These tables can be adjusted to accommodate more guests when needed and then reduced in size for everyday use.
Select Stylish Chairs: Pair your dining table with chairs that complement your overall décor. Upholstered chairs can add a touch of elegance, while wooden chairs provide a classic, timeless look.
Don’t Forget the Details: Small details like a beautiful table runner, elegant placemats, and coordinating dinnerware can elevate the look of your dining table.
Creating Stunning Tablescapes
A beautifully set table can set the tone for your holiday gatherings and make your meals feel extra special. Here are some ideas for creating memorable Thanksgiving and Christmas tablescapes.
Thanksgiving Tablescapes
Thanksgiving is all about celebrating abundance and togetherness. Reflect this spirit in your tablescape with warm, earthy tones and natural elements.
Layered Table Settings: Start with a neutral tablecloth or runner, then layer with charger plates, dinner plates, and salad plates. Use cloth napkins in rich autumnal colors and tie them with twine or ribbon.
Seasonal Centerpieces: Create a centerpiece using pumpkins, gourds, and fall foliage. Add candles in varying heights to bring warmth and light to your table.
Personal Touches: Place cards and small favors can add a personal touch to your table. Consider writing a small note of gratitude for each guest.
Christmas Tablescapes
Christmas tablescapes can range from traditional to modern, but the key is to create a magical and festive atmosphere.
Classic Red and Green: For a traditional look, use a red tablecloth or runner with green accents. Add gold or silver elements for a touch of elegance.
Winter Wonderland: If you prefer a more modern approach, create a winter wonderland theme with a white or silver tablecloth, sparkling ornaments, and frosted greenery.
Festive Centerpieces: Use a mix of candles, ornaments, and seasonal greenery to create a stunning centerpiece. Incorporate elements like pinecones, holly, and berries for a festive touch.
Tips for Hosting During the Holidays
Plan Ahead: Start preparing early to avoid last-minute stress. Create a checklist of tasks to complete before your guests arrive.
Stay Organized: Keep your home organized and clutter-free. Use decorative baskets and storage solutions to keep items out of sight.
Create a Warm Welcome: Greet your guests with a warm welcome. Light candles, play soft music, and offer a signature holiday drink as they arrive.
Work with a Design: An experienced interior designer can help you update your home to best showcase your space during the holiday hosting season, and also choose functional pieces to outfit the entertaining areas of your home.
The holiday season is the perfect time to refresh your home and create a welcoming environment for your guests. By updating your furniture and creating stunning tablescapes, you can ensure your home is not only comfortable but also beautifully festive. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or Christmas, these tips will help you showcase your home and make your holiday gatherings truly memorable.
