Each year, my partner and I host a holiday dinner for our dearest friends, a cherished tradition that has continued for five years. I prepare dishes like sweet and spicy glazed short ribs and pesto parmesan potatoes, while we sip champagne by the fire, relishing the joy of the evening.
This year, I'm excited to share how I'm arranging our holiday table with elements like place cards, greenery, and candlelight. My favorite handmade ceramic dishes and recycled glassware are integral to the setup. Join me as I share tips for designing a modern holiday table while keeping it stress-free and enjoyable.
Prepare the Setting the Night Before
To ensure a hassle-free experience on the day of the event, my top tip is to set the table completely the evening prior. This allows you to admire the beautiful setup and concentrate on the other details that day.
Use Linen for a Stylish Base
Forget about stiff, perfectly pressed tablecloths. For a modern holiday table, I prefer a casual linen throw that leaves part of the table visible, showcasing the natural wood beneath.
I designed an oversized linen napkin that feels both organic and luxurious. It's now a staple for our table settings.
This throw fits any table shape and enhances the look by revealing the edges underneath, celebrating natural imperfections.
Shop NowCrafted in Lithuania from heavyweight flax linen, this napkin also serves as a stylish kitchen dishtowel.
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Add a Touch of Evergreen for Scandinavian Charm
This year marks my third collaboration with an artist for the evergreen accents of our decor. We've crafted a simple Scandinavian-inspired look that feels special throughout the season.
I love incorporating a garland down the center of the table, which serves as a natural runner, allowing for easy conversation. Plus, it stays fresh for weeks, maximizing the enjoyment of the decor.
This beautiful garland features an array of textured evergreens and west coast seeded eucalyptus, available in several lengths: 5ft, 10ft, 15ft, or 25ft.
Shop NowThis wreath combines Seeded Eucalyptus, Leyland Cypress, Fraser Fir, White Pine, and Boxwood, measuring up to 36″.
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Celebrate Handmade Ceramics
I have a passion for handmade ceramics. There's a unique warmth to these handcrafted pieces. Setting the table with our oversized stoneware dinner plates adds an elevated touch for the dinner party, yet they're the same plates we use daily.
Great news if you've been eyeing these plates—they'll soon be back in stock from our artisans in Mexico, and pre-orders are now open, making it a perfect little gift for yourself.
These oversized stoneware dinner plates, handmade in Mexico, feature high-temperature hand-glazed ceramic and are dishwasher-safe.
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Craft Elegant Place Settings
While I appreciate a relaxed table, I also enjoy using place cards to personalize each setting. They help guests know where to sit and can feature natural elements like fresh herbs or dried citrus. This year, we created striking rosemary wreath place cards.
Steps to Create Rosemary Wreath Place Cards
- Use fresh rosemary for flexibility. Take three stems, each 6-8″ long, along with green floral wire and wire cutters.
- Wrap the floral wire around the first rosemary stem, adding another stem midway and twisting to secure. Include the final stem halfway through the second piece.
- Once secured, loop the wire back to the first stem to create a circle, adjusting as needed.
For more ideas on modern holiday table setups, check out last year's pomegranate-themed table. Don't forget to explore our Holiday HQ for delicious recipes, decor inspiration, and gift guides to celebrate the season fully!
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