When the festive season rolls in, our homes become the centre of the celebrations. A warm, welcoming hub of feasting and togetherness for family and treasured friends.
One of the joys of Christmas hosting is creating a beautiful tablescape. A thoughtfully designed table doesn’t just set the stage for a meal; it sets the mood for the whole gathering, whether it’s a traditional family lunch or a raucous New Year’s Eve feast with your favourites.
And so, whether you’re hosting a fabulously festive Christmas feast or a glamorous holiday supper party, tablescaping allows you a quiet moment of creativity guaranteed to elevate every occasion and makes guests feel cherished from the moment they arrive.
Holloways Interior Designer Annie Blackledge is a master in the art of tablescaping. To host generously, she says, makes the festive season magical and memorable in equal measure. And she always starts with a show-stopping tablescape.
“Before you start, decide what story you want your table to tell,” says Annie, who lives with her husband James in a converted barn in rural Herefordshire, which comes alive at Christmas. She advises starting your table design process several days in advance, to create a gorgeous festive vignette in the dining room and take the stress out of last-minute preparation.
”Is your style natural textures and candlelight? A modern glam approach with metallics and crystal? A traditional holiday palette of red and green? Choosing a theme creates cohesion and ensures your table feels intentionally curated rather than cluttered.”
Your table covering sets the foundations for a considered tablescape. A crisp cotton or linen tablecloth, luxe velvet runner or even a bare oak dining table can all work beautifully depending on your style, Annie advises.
“Layering is key here—a runner atop a cloth adds depth, while placemats or chargers introduce definition for each setting,” she adds. “Plain white tableware works beautifully with a patterned cloth for visual interest – there are beautiful examples in the Holloways Gift Shop. Conversely, if you have bold plates or glassware, a neutral base will let them pop. Remember: the aim is balance, not competition.”
Nature-inspired décor instantly infuses warmth and authenticity. Evergreen branches, eucalyptus garlands, pine cones, dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks and fresh florals will make your table feel festive without overwhelming it. For a wintery touch, spray greenery with metallic paint or intersperse tiny fairy lights for subtle sparkle. Keep candles, flowers and other accessories low enough to allow easy eye contact across the table. Tall arrangements may look stunning in photos, but they can interrupt conversation—the heart of every Christmas meal.
“Texture brings richness and dimension to a tablescape,” says Annie. “Mix materials – linen napkins, ceramic plates, stainless-steel cutlery, hand-blown glassware, woven placemats. Even small details like a velvet ribbon tied around a napkin or a sprig of rosemary tucked into a place setting can elevate the look. There are plenty of examples of these slightly eclectic tablescapes in the Holloways showrooms this year.”
Annie says contrast also works well. Rustic wood paired with shimmering gold, or rustic, textured plates with high-sheen accessories – think our new Addison Ross candlesticks and mills, available in our Gift Shop – can create striking and memorable combinations.
Lighting is the magic-maker of Christmas décor. Candles—pillar, taper, or tea lights—offer warmth and intimacy. Clustered candles at varying heights add drama without overwhelming the table. Rechargable table lamps are a contemporary touch and add beautiful pools of light to the table.
“If your guest list includes children, LED candles or fairy lights woven through a garland deliver a cosy glow without the risk,” says Annie. “Make sure the light is soft and inviting—not stark or overly bright. Warm tones and candlelight makes everyone look good and food look even better.
A festive table feels extra special when each guest is welcomed with a personal touch. Name cards, handwritten messages, a tiny ornament or a sprig of greenery tied with twine can transform a simple place setting into a thoughtful, personal experience.
“I like to wrap miniature bottles of spirits in tissue paper tied with ribbon,” says Annie. “It feels generous and spoiling, and are a great after-lunch tipple.”
As enchanting as a maximalist tablescape can be, ensure there's enough space for eating, says Annie. Avoid overcrowding the table with flowers, candlesticks and ornaments — plates, glasses, and serving dishes need room too. Think beautiful but functional.
“The most memorable tablescapes reflect your personality,” adds Annie. “Whether you love bold, jewel-like colours, understated elegance or whimsical details collected over the years, let your table represent you. Festive tablescaping isn’t about perfection—it's about creating an atmosphere that invites people to relax, celebrate, and savour every magical moment with you. With a little creativity and a few well-chosen elements, your decorated table can become the heart of your seasonal celebrations—warm, welcoming, and wonderfully festive.”
