The team at retail collective A Raft of Otters love having a theme for a table setting. And with the festive season here, they’ve got the perfect excuse to talk all things tablescape. Here are some of their tips for table settings and table decorations for Christmas (or next Thanksgiving!) – all you need to do is add the delicious feast!
Themes and layers
Firstly, when it comes to planning your festive table settings, do take the time to prepare. Setting the scene has never been so involved and you can really go all out to create the wow factor for when your guests walk in and see your spectacular table laid in its entirety.
Choose your colour theme for your table decorations, whether it’s classic green and red, autumnal shades, or blue, white and silver – even monochrome. This should be your starting point. Then comes the important layering element – playing with shades, prints and textures in your choice of linens, crockery and flowers.
Tablecloths and florals
A lot of you will own beautiful tables that don’t require a tablecloth, but for a showstopper of a themed Christmas table setting or Thanksgiving dinner we would recommend a runner or a tablecloth to make the table feel really special and add texture. Make this your first layer, then work up to your placemats, linens and plates, and then to your glassware, staying on theme with your chosen palette.
A festive table setting gives you the opportunity to incorporate seasonal greenery and branches or to highlight harvest colours. For florals, instead of one large arrangement, which can block your view of people across from you, opt for several vases of varying heights, each one holding short stems of holly, mistletoe and rosemary or amaryllis, known for its candy-cane-like red and white flowers.
Finishing touches
When it comes to candlelight, you can add atmosphere to the room and set the mood with a mix of taper candles at various heights. Also, little clusters of two or three tea lights in pretty glasses along the table bring colour, depth and consideration to your table setting.
This is the perfect time of the year to really go all out – more is certainly more! Add plenty of finishing touches, from family heirloom napkin rings to decorative pieces such as on-theme coloured nutcrackers, reindeers and tree décor. It’s all in the detail.
When it’s time to create your own Christmas table decorations or Thanksgiving table settings, head to A Raft of Otters at #03-102 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road. araftofotters.com
This article first appeared in the November 2022 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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