Christmas dinner always starts the same way. You say it’s going to be sweet and simple. Now you’re standing in front of your dining table! Wondering when you became someone who cares deeply about napkins! Candles! Servewear! And centrepieces! Meanwhile, everyone’s already asking, “When are we opening Secret Santa gifts?” But here’s the thing love. Before the gifts steal the spotlight. Your table usually does. And this season, Westside is making sure it looks festive! Stylish! Instagram story worthy. And above all very much a host-who-has-it-together!
So what even is Christmas tablescaping?
Basically dressing up your dining table the same way you dress up for a party! A little effort. A little drama. A lot of charm. It’s the difference between food will be served and oh wow, this looks so nice. Think layers. Textures. Candles. Christmas playlist that goes on in the background. And festive décor to make people pull their phones out before they pull their chairs in.
Where do I start without losing my sanity?
Start with the base. Table runner or placemats first. They instantly make the table feel intentional. Then your tableware. Plates. Bowls. Glasses. Remember! This table is about to see gravy spills. Second helpings. And at least one enthusiastic guest. Your tableware should be made for this exact scenario! Looks great. Survives chaos. Which is all we really want!
What’s the secret to a table that feels festive?
Candles. Always candles. Tall ones. Small ones. A mix is perfect. They hide chaos beautifully and make everything look warmer. Add a simple centrepiece. Maybe a festive accent. Greenery. Or something decorative that says Christmas. This is the table people start filming for Instagram with Christmas music playing softly in the background. You know the clip.
How do I make it feel special without turning it into a showroom?
Leave room for real life. Plates moving around. People leaning in to talk. Dramatic hand gestures. Someone reaching across the table mid-laugh. A good tablescape looks beautiful but doesn’t get in the way of the fun.
What if my table isn’t very big?
Even better. Smaller tables are easier to style. Focus on the centre. Keep décor low. And let lighting do the heavy lifting. A few candles in well-dressed place settings go a long way.
Any last-minute Christmas table hacks?
Darling don’t light the candles for hours! Do this before everyone sits down. Fluff the napkins. Step back. That’s it. Christmas tablescaping isn’t about being perfect. It’s about creating a moment people remember. One where dinner runs long. Gifts get opened late. And no one wants to leave the table!
Because Christmas my darlings. Isn’t just about the food. The gifts. Or the perfect décor. No. It’s about the vibe. The stories. And the memories made around the table. With Westside’s home collection, dressing up your Christmas table feels fun, effortless, and completely worth it.
Shop Westside Home in-store or online. Because the gifts will be unwrapped… but your table will be remembered.
