On the dark

colour and texture, and I’ve layered gold and pine on the top,” she explains.

Fir tree branches should be layered down the middle of the table, which will fill the room with a pine scent, and then entwine them with batteryoperated fairy lights.

Pine fronds and pom-poms will give plenty of warmth to this look, and stop it being too stark, Barnett advises.

Baubles and gift tags, with every guest’s name written on each, will conjure really personal place settings and make a lovely gift and souvenir of the meal for them to take away.