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Christmas Table Decorations for Holiday Entertaining

How will you decorate your Christmas table? Don’t worry–there’s plenty of time to decide! Today we’ve gathered a dozen ideas for your inspiration! From centerpieces to dishware, these holiday selections will give you a sampling of the season’s best styles. Whether you prefer ultra contemporary or irresistibly glam, there’s a look for your ideal table.

Start by assessing what you have. For example, if your dishware is a solid color that’s perfect for the holidays, liven it up with a set of salad plates in a Christmas pattern. If you own a red vase, use this container to inspire a festive centerpiece. By adding a few new items, you can give this year’s holiday table a fresh update!

Christmas Centerpiece Decor

We begin with a slew of centerpiece ideas, and we can’t help but love the glistening assortment of tabletop selections offered by CB2 this holiday season, including glass trees and candlesticks. Mix silver and transparent pieces for variety, and enjoy the way the candlelight bounces off each shiny surface for a warm glow. These reflective selections are perfect for modern interiors!

Shiny Christmas tabletop decor

There’s a centerpiece for every style! If you’re hunting for a look that is both earthy and contemporary, try the Star 9 Candleholder from CB2, which is rustic yet modern with its powdercoated steel frame. Not to mention, the piece is strategically weathered with a raw finish and exposed brass welding.

Metallic star candle decor

This next featured table combines the best of vibrant textiles (like a red and white chevron runner) and charming details (such as mason jar candle holders). Greenery, pine cones, berries and pomegranates tie the look together. A perfect blend of crisp decor and country style! [from Rikki Snyder Photography]

Red and white Christmas table decor

For a similar look, select berries and other red accents, such as antique lanterns and colorful candle holders. Don’t forget that hanging decorations can add just as much to your table as the items that rest on its surface. Check out the geometric snowflakes below! [from Kay Loves Vintage]

Festive holiday table decor in shades of red

In fact, some of the best Christmas tables combine varied elements in a display of contrast. Don’t be afraid to mix two different looks for a unique effect. For example, the mercury glass bird and votive candle holders below blend beautifully with natural details such as pine cones, placemats and the natural wood of the table. [from The Old Painted Cottage]

Silver and wooden tabletop Christmas decor

We can’t forget about dessert! Christmas is such a magical time, and the season is filled with delicious treats and special baked goods. Create a candy shop effect with a table of goodies, buffet-style! Below we see a dessert table by Mon Tresor, featuring a red, aqua and white color scheme. [from Mon Tresor via Green Apple Paperie]

A colorful Christmas dessert table

Christmas Dishware

Another great way to enliven your Christmas spread is to add a few new plates and serving pieces. Spice up your table with some vibrant Marin Red Dinnerware from Crate & Barrel, shown here with pieces from the Sycamore Dinnerware collection. This two-toned combo proves that a little bit of holiday color can go a long way, especially when seasonal patterned napkins are thrown into the mix!

Holiday dinnerware in shades of red and grey

Bring a playful element to your holiday table with these Penguin Friends Dessert Plates from West Elm. Perfect for festive appetizers and desserts, the plates are made of porcelain and are purchased in sets of four. The best part: their patchwork motifs are perfect for serving tasty treats all year long!

Penguin holiday plates

Sometimes it’s nice to keep things simple. If you want just a touch of holiday festivity, try Pottery Barn’s metallic rim salad plates with silver or gold-toned trim. Sold in a set of four, this dishware adds a bit of glitz without being Christmas-specific.

Metallic-edged holiday plates

Christmas Place Settings

Still looking for more dishware ideas? Expand your search to include place setting items such as glassware and table linens. Head over to the Z Gallerie website, where you’ll find an assortment of 9 different holiday looks, all glamorous and unique. If you like what you see, click through for a breakdown of each detail, including purchasing information. From napkin rings to those extra baubles that dazzle, you’ll find countless ways to celebrate wintry shine.

Holiday place setting ideas

For a woodsy look that celebrates the power of plaid, try using a colorful flannel-style tablecloth. Play up the outdoorsy theme with placemats and trim made of natural fibers, plus branches of greenery. Red accents tie the look together, as shown by the silverware handles below. [from Sweet Something Designs]

Woodsy Christmas tabletop decor

Don’t forget about the kids! In our last image, we see a child-friendly Christmas table, complete with paper plates that look nothing but stylish when topped with cone-shaped Christmas caps that double as place cards. Also of note: the way a simple pine cone becomes the perfect whimsical centerpiece. [from A Lovely Lark]

Christmas kids’ table decor

The images above encourage the blending of different looks, as well as the clever use of items found around the house. You don’t need to spend a fortune to create a special holiday table. Purchase a few new items to add pizzazz, but if you’re on a budget, don’t be afraid to sample from your current decor. Most importantly, have a festive holiday surrounded by people who make you smile!

Kate Simmons

Kate Simmons is a freelance writer and design blogger with a love of all things decor. She spent her childhood writing stories and working on interior design-themed DIY projects. Kate’s published writing reflects her special interest in how design has changed through the decades. Her blog Mirror80 ( http://mirror80.com/) explores the fashion and [...]

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