How to Set a Great Holiday Table!! In 5 Easy Steps.

#1. Seating. Start with counting the number of guests that will be attending your meal. Having plenty of seating will ensure that all your guests will have room and that they will be comfortable.

#2. Buffet or Family Style. The next step would be to decide if you will serve your guest buffet-style or family-style where the food is on the table. This will determine the flow for your guests and if you will need a place to set up the food for a buffet or if it is family-style how much room you will need on your table.

#3. Table Linens. After you have determined seating and food locations it is time to dress up the table. Choose what color palette you would like to use. This is a great time to decide how formal or informal you would like to set your table. If your table is scratched or worn one option could be to cover it with a full table cloth to hide the surface. If you have a table you don’t mind showing off a table runner, placemats, and napkins are great options and can help establish a color theme.

#4. Dinnerware. Whether you’re decorating with paper plates for a Holiday potluck or making a more formal feast, the key is consistency. Plates, silverware, and glassware should be clean and should match. You can also fancy it up a bit with a layered look with chargers or stacking plates. Using serveware can be a great grounding element to your table that you can use year after year while changing up the less expensive linens and centerpieces.

See Formal Place Setting Above

#5. Centerpieces. Adding complementary centerpieces will tie all your tables together and add some festive elements to accent the holiday occasion. Using holiday colors and items can complement your other holiday decor. You can also add greenery, and candles to give it texture and warmth. Making place cards for guests or adding decorative items
to each place setting gives a personal touch.

Now, you are ready to enjoy your dinner guests!