How To

All the glitters and gold

Written by Karien Slabbert

Set the scene for a memorable Christmas by decorating your festive table with flair.

Make it personal

Gone are the days of having to keep your tree or table traditional. “Think outside the box and make it fun and festive,” suggests Claudine Schafli of Vintage Vista Lifestyle Centre.

The easiest way to add personal style to a Christmas table setting is to decorate with what you love. “It’s all down to your personal taste. The more you use personal favourites, the more the table will reflect you,” says Katrin Herrmann-van Dyk, Hertex/HAUS creative director and head homeware buyer.

The right theme

To make the planning process easier, Schafli suggests choosing a theme or a specific colour scheme. This will help keep your thoughts focused and ensure a pulled-together look.

Image: Paper-design.de

“If you have a modern table in mind, black and white with touches of fresh green and regal gold,” says Schafli.

Image: www.shabby-diele.de

For a more organic look reminiscent of a northern hemisphere Christmas, add earthy touches like blonde wood, pinecones and dried-twig wreaths. Schalfi suggests adding greenery for a touch of woodland appeal. “Faux greenery is always a winner, as you can use them afterward.”

Image: Pixabay

Colour on cue

“In terms of colour schemes, there will always be room for festive hues like forest green and Christmas rose red,” says Herrmann-van Dyk.

However, you don’t necessarily need to follow the rules when it comes to colour. “As we experience a warm Christmas in our country, we can get away with using bright colours too, like yellow, teal or red,” says Hermann-van Dyk.

Dinnerware and utensils

According to Herrmann-van Dyk, the key components of a successful Christmas table are beautiful and unique dinnerware and utensils. “Quality definitely trumps quantity when it’s time to set your Christmas table. Not only can you see the difference, but good quality products will last you for years to come.”

Image: HAUS

TIP: It’s all about presentation. Crockery in a darker shade is ideal for showcasing jewel-hued Christmas dishes.

Image: Haus

For an eclectic touch, combine antique bone china and modern accessories.

Image: Sophy Allport

Accessories

Introduce colour to your table with boldly printed napery, or fold paper serviettes in interesting origami-style designs. “Add personalised place cards and a small gift to make guests feel extra welcome,” suggests Schafli.

Image: Paper-design.de

No Christmas dinner table is complete without the soft glow of candles. The more ambient light the better.

Image: Lichtertüten

Flowers

“Nothing beats vases on your table filled with fresh and fragrant greenery and flowers,” says Hermann-van Dyk. For a contemporary look, divide a selection of your favourite flowers in vessels of differing heights, instead of one large floral arrangement. This way, guest will be able to enjoy the blooms and still see each other.

Image: HAUS

TIP: Don’t limit blooms to your festive table. Place arrangements throughout your home to give your home a celebratory feel.

THE AUTHOR

Karien Slabbert

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