Create the ultimate CHRISTMAS TABLESCAPE

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR FESTIVE DINING!

Abeautifully set table not only gets everyone in the mood, but also shows off your food to perfection. Carolyn Dorrian, founder of Mrs Tablescape, shares her styling tips to impress.

COLOUR SCHEME

To decide on your colour scheme, start by looking at what items you already have. For example, would you like a traditional red and green theme, silver and white, red and gold, or blue and gold. There’s no right or wrong answer, however, you’ll want to pick one so you know what look you’re working towards. Having a beautiful tablescape doesn’t mean you need to go out and purchase all-new items – it’s something that you can build on each year.

DON’T FORGET THESE ESSENTIALS

The tablescape items that you will want to include on your list are: bonbons (if you’re having them), centrepieces, placemats or tablecloth (or perhaps both), table runner, napkins, plates, wine and/ or champagne glasses, water and soft drink glasses or tumblers, and cutlery.

CHOOSE A CENTREPIECE

You are only limited to your imagination, but as a guide keep your centrepiece to below eye level when you’re sitting down – you don’t want to obstruct your guests’ view of each other. Keep in mind the size of your table and how much room you’ll have once you have your plates and glasses on it. A few DIY centrepieces include:

• Candles of various sizes and colours

• A vase filled with Christmas balls or cherries • Turning a wine glass upside down and using it as a candle stand, and placing a Christmas-themed item under the glass

• Small boxes gift wrapped and tied with ribbon as mini presents • Placing groups of cherries, red fruit, acorns or tree branches and leaves together.

As long as your items match your colour scheme, they will work.