Every year, I look forward to hosting a dinner party for friends right before Christmas. It's a cherished tradition where I whip up a delightful menu, often featuring my sweet and spicy glazed short ribs, pesto parmesan potatoes, and my holiday jewels kale salad. We sip champagne by the fire and enjoy meaningful conversations as the year wraps up.
Hosting intimate dinner parties fills me with joy. These cozy evenings spent with close friends at the table create lasting connections.
This year, I'm excited to show you how I'm setting the table for our Christmas dinner. With handmade ceramic dishes and recycled glassware, I'm incorporating a beautiful evergreen garland as a centerpiece.
First, check out the video below to see my holiday decor this year—then scroll down for my tips on keeping things simple yet special, allowing you to enjoy the festivities as much as your guests.
$895 at Casa Zuma$99-239 at Casa ZumaInspired by Scandinavian Design
In my recent Holiday Decor tour, I shared how I'm embracing evergreen branches, twinkling fairy lights, birch bark candles, kraft paper gifts, and bowls of pine cones. This decor creates a Scandinavian woodland vibe against a minimalist neutral backdrop. The lush textiles and soft candlelight transform the table into a cozy atmosphere, capturing the essence of hygge throughout the space.
The Perfect Linen Table Covering
While I usually appreciate the natural look of our unfinished teak dining table, I love to dress it up for dinner parties with a casual linen table throw. This doesn't cover the table entirely, allowing the beautiful wood to peek through. Don't stress about wrinkles—the charm of linen lies in its relaxed appearance. This simple white look enhances the Scandinavian theme, especially with a natural evergreen runner that maintains an unobtrusive height for easy conversation.
$80 at Casa Zuma$76 at Casa ZumaCreating a Lush Evergreen Centerpiece
My friend Elle Worsham, who owns Gracious Garlands, provides the most stunning evergreen garlands, perfect for draping over the mantel or centering the table. This particular garland is abundant and textured, serving as a lovely runner that doesn't obstruct conversations like a taller floral arrangement might. Plus, it lasts for weeks, adding beauty throughout the holiday season.
It pairs beautifully with our Casa Zuma Holiday Wreaths, which hang over the mantel and near the table. Made from a California-inspired blend of Fraser Fir, Leyland Cypress, Gold Tipped Cedar, and Seeded Eucalyptus, it brings warmth and natural elegance to the setting.
$145 at Sezane$175 at SezaneIlluminating the Table
After laying down the linen tablecloth and evergreen runner, I introduce twinkling candles that instantly add magic to any gathering. Among my holiday table setting tips, using candles is the most effective and budget-friendly way to create a warm ambiance.
I prefer an asymmetrical arrangement with tall candlesticks for visual interest. To enhance the glow, I often tuck votive candles among the greenery.
Recycled Glass Petite Goblets, Set of 4
$78 at Casa Zuma$7 at TargetRaise a Glass
This year, I've chosen the Playa Dinnerware for our Christmas table. It's both elegant for special occasions and sturdy enough for our casual dinners. I've paired them with Recycled Glass Goblets, which add a charming organic touch to any drink. Crafted by artisans in Guatemala from recycled glass, these durable goblets are perfect for water, wine, or cocktails, making them a staple for every dinner party.
Oversized Linen Napkin, Set of 2
$40 at Casa ZumaShop NowA Personal Touch
Taking a few moments to create handwritten place cards adds a special touch to the table. I used simple recycled paper, wrote each guest's name, and tucked in a sprig of cedar and a dried orange slice. Don't stress about perfection; the charm lies in their personal, handmade quality.
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