Author: Sydney Piwowar
1. Pick a Theme
This year, I am keeping a simple Scandinavian winter theme with a neutral palette. Natural textures, greenery and soft candlelight create a relaxed setting where the focus can be on the great food and conversation around the table.
2. Simple Textures
Layering up textures is very important. Here, starting with a layer of white linen sets a soft tone. A rough grey linen runner lines the table adding needed balance against the perfect white. Notice that the grey and white tones call back to the dive grey dishes set on the table.
3. Natural Accents
They say that scent is the strongest memory trigger. The smell of pine at this time of year reminds me of all the great holidays of my past and to come. Using the left-over tree trimming is an easy way to add a more festive feel to any holiday table.
4. Add Height
I don’t like focus of a table setting to be down. I like to give the eye freedom to travel around the room. One easy trick is to add height which is easily done with the addition of a few tall candlesticks. In the winter months, candlelight is essential to any gathering. Burning candles creates the ultimate cozy ambiance. Another trick to fill up a larger table is to add a combination of tall candlesticks and low tea lights scattered along the table foliage so there’s light at different levels.
5. Simple Accessories
Black and brass candle sticks are a simple, yet gutsy way to go. This trend pays homage to traditional candles but adds a fun and celebratory feel. This is also an opportunity to showcase special occasion cutlery that is more exciting than the everyday stainless-steel set. Textured or patterned napkins serve as a pop against the white setting here. Tying the edgy black stainless steel in with the rest of the clean, elegant, table setting.
