Setting the table for the holidays can be an exciting endeavor that adds a special touch to your festive gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a simple, straightforward setup or an all-out holiday wonderland, there are options for every style and budget. Here’s how you can set your holiday table at three different levels: essential, next level, and all-out.

At each progressive level, we build upon the last, adding elements that transform your tablescape from a stress-free meal to a grand holiday event.

Essential Tabletop Decor

Tablecloth | Napkins | Dinner Plates | Flatware | Glassware

If you’re no fuss and want to keep your tablescape as such, here are the essentials to make your table feel put together yet approachable. This is also a great place to start if you’re beginning to enter the hosting scene. I like to set the scene with a tablecloth, and this merlot linen tablecloth is the perfect backdrop. Now, all you need is a pretty dinner plate, flatware, napkins, and a glass. At this level, I like to fold my napkins into rectangles neatly beneath the silverware.

Next Level Tabletop Decor

Napkin Rings | Dessert Plate | Flatware | Goblet | Candlesticks | Taper Candles

Alright, let’s spice it up a notch. Keep that tablecloth and add some dessert plates in the left-hand corner above the forks. Aside from the flatware essentials, add a salad fork and a soup spoon—or whatever you use them for. Rather than folding your napkins, add a ring around them and place them atop the dinner plate. Next, you can add a secondary glass for their “fun” drink of choice, perfect for toasting! Lastly, taper candles are the perfect addition to make your tablescape feel more intimate and put together, and they’re so simple and affordable.

All-Out: Holiday Extravaganza

Serving Platter | Bread Basket | Chargers | Name Card Holders | Wood Serving Bowl & Spoons

If you’re dressing your table to impress or simply care about the details, here’s how to make your tablescape memorable. First things first, don’t underestimate how adding a charger plate beneath your dinner plate can instantly make things feel more formal! I also love how a name card instantly makes your guests feel so welcome and thought of. This idea of using a Polaroid picture rather than their name is the perfect personalized touch. And to top it all off, you can make your serveware a part of the tabletop decor!

And there you have it! Whether you choose to go with something simple, all-out, or in-between, I hope you get to enjoy time with those you love this holiday season!

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