How to style a Christmas table

Before you start setting the table, choose a theme to guide the rest of your styling decisions. Whether you're drawn to classic reds and greens, colourful maximalism or a more contemporary palette, a clear theme helps create a cohesive look. Take inspiration from your Christmas decorations and build your tablescape around complementary colours, textures and decorative details that tie the whole room together.

With your theme decided, it's time to start dressing the table. Begin with serving dishes and bowls as the foundation of your tablescape, then layer in side plates to add depth and interest to each setting. Thoughtful details such as salt and pepper shakers can complement your chosen theme while adding a practical finishing touch. By mixing different colours, textures and shapes, you'll create a table that feels inviting, cohesive and ready for entertaining.

No dinner table is complete without glistening Christmas glasses. From wine glasses and champagne flutes for raising a toast to tumblers for water and soft drinks, glassware helps bring both height and sparkle to your tablescape. Lean into your chosen theme with festive red stripes, colourful designs or textured finishes, mixing different styles to create a setting that's full of character.

Your centrepiece is where you can make the biggest statement. Large vases filled with fresh flowers, decorative stems or in-season poinsettias create an instant focal point for the table. Along longer tables, bud vases in varying heights can help carry the arrangement throughout the tablescape. Coordinating your florals and greenery with your chosen theme will help tie the look together from end to end.

Nothing transforms a table quite like candlelight. Dot Christmas candles throughout your tablescape to create a warm, inviting glow. Position candle holders across the table to cast light over your setting, helping to create an inviting atmosphere for guests. Candlestick holders bring an elegant touch to place settings, while larger candelabra-style designs make a striking centrepiece. Pair delicate glass candle holders with polished metal designs for a layered, collected look.

Part of the joy of Christmas entertaining is making guests feel extra special. Adding Christmas table gifts to each place setting brings a personal touch to the occasion, whether you choose beauty treats, keepsakes or playful surprises. Alongside Christmas crackers and other traditions, these small details serve as simple Christmas decor ideas for the table and give guests something to take home once the celebrations are over.

A dedicated drinks station helps keep the conversation flowing long after dinner is served. Arrange a drinks trolley or home bar with your favourite bottles, mixers and glassware. Cocktail shakers, bottle openers and glass decanters add the finishing touches while keeping everything close at hand throughout the evening. Styled to sit alongside your table setting, it helps create a seamless flow from dining to drinks.

Let the scent of Christmas greet your guests as soon as they arrive. Layer seasonal fragrances throughout your home using diffusers and scented candles. Notes of clementine, cinnamon and frankincense bring warmth to your space, while hot chocolate and mulled wine fragrances add a comforting finishing touch. From the hallway to the dining room, these fragrances help set the mood for Christmas entertaining.

Decorating doesn’t stop at the table. Extend your chosen look beyond the tablescape with Christmas home decor, incorporating garlands, bows and string lights throughout the room. Layer decorations across shelves, mantelpieces and nearby surfaces to help create a sense of occasion. Together, these details help transform your space into a warm and welcoming setting for Christmas gatherings and celebrations.