5 steps to setting a stunning Christmas table

Coming together around a table and the joy of sharing food, love and laughter is often a highlight of Christmas day and a cornerstone of many festive traditions. So, how do you set a table as beautiful as the ones you see on Instagram? We’ve asked our in-house stylists to collate this simple, fuss-free guide to creating your dream Christmas table setting.


1. Choose your palette

The key to a great table setting is layering. Choose a base colour for your table cloth, keeping in mind the darker it is the more formal your table will feel. You can add accent colours over this but try and keep it simple with a maximum of 3 colours for the most effect.

2. Set your base

If your table has imperfections or needs protecting, a table cloth is an easy way to cover it up and quickly add style. If you prefer to show your tabletop, a table runner down the centre is a great way to tie everything together. For something different, run it across the table to serve as placemats.

3. Dress it up

A centrepiece doesn’t have to be extravagant, but as the name suggests, it should be the focus and highlight of your table setting design. It’s important to keep the centrepiece low to ensure you don’t obscure your guests from talking across the table. A favourite base piece for your centrepiece is one of our artificial garlands. Add to your garland vases, jars and vessels of varied heights and fill them with artificial greenery, flowers or candles that you can use again around the house post-festive season.

4. Add your places

Once you have your table linen sorted it is time to arrange your charger plates, glasses, napkins and cutlery. Personalise each setting with a name tag, sprig of greenery, ornament or ribbon as an extra touch.

5. Finishing touches

Finish off your festive table by adding in the all important glassware, lights and candles for extra sparkle; then sit back and enjoy the beautiful table you have created.

We hope we’ve been able to inspire you to create your dream Christmas table setting this year! Share your Christmas table images with us on Instagram with #PillowTalkAustralia.