TABLE TALK
Top tips on the art of tablescaping at Christmastime
‘I am going to decorate the table in rich, jewel-like colours using my Moon runner (above) as the main feature over a classic white tablecloth. I’ll then add tea lights, pomegranates and red roses in brass lassi cups to create a rich, sumptuous atmosphere. And for the finishing touches, the children will lay out their handmade crackers that we do together as a ritual each year.’ MOLLY MAHON, mollymahon.com
‘Bringing the outdoors in at this time of year is an effective way to decorate your table. A large vase of branches and garden foliage can look both dramatic and stylish. I like to mix these with a few decorations scattered across the table.’
RONNY DE KONING, global buyer, Petersham Nurseries, petershamnurseries.com
‘This year, I definitely think colours like blues and pinks will be more prominent. I also think there will be lots of different textures, such as feathers and glitter, as well as a more dressed-up approach to make the occasion stand out.’ ALICE NAYLOR-LEYLAND, founder, Mrs. Alice, mrsalice.com
‘TO STYLE A NATURAL CHRISTMAS TABLE, FOCUS ON A PALETTE OF PARED-BACK WOODS, RECYCLED GLASSWARE AND SUBTLE TOUCHES OF COLOUR.’ ALI & ALEX COOKE, founders, Nkuku, nkuku.com
‘I WILL HAVE A CLOTH FROM ONE OF MY NEW FABRICS, SUCH AS SILVER DUST BY KATHARINE AMIES, LAID OUT WITH MY MONOGRAMMED MIRROR CHARGERS AND LOADS OF CANDLES. SOMETIMES WE HANG A BRANCH OVER THE TABLE WITH GLASS GLOBES SUSPENDED FROM A FISHING LINE.’ JUSTIN VAN BREDA, justinvanbreda.com
‘I love to use statement candles and this year will be using these, which look like marble and onyx. They would make a wonderful statement on a Christmas table – the black contrasting so well with the vibrant reds of foliage and fruits and with the rich greens of holly and firs.’ SUSIE ATKINSON, susieatkinson.com