Happy December! It’s been another beautiful sunny and cool winter here in California and it never gets old. After being in the 100’s just a short few weeks ago, the cool crisp air is so refreshing and welcomed! Looking back at this year, having everyone home more than ever, more dishes to wash, and more meals to prepare, just keeping it real, hasn’t been my favorite. Anyone else tired just thinking about it. Haha. BUT, the one thing I’ve probably enjoyed most, and far outweighs all that, was having more time together around the table than ever before, and that alone has totally made it worth it.
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Today I wanted to share a Christmas table that is both easy and quick to put together yet special, working with what you have on a free to very low budget. And you’re going to want to keep it on your table as long as you can cause it’s going to make your dining space extra special!
My favorite thing to do when creating tablescapes is to first look around my house, and outdoors. I kept it simple with just a few elements to make up our table. And I wanted it to be one that can easily be replicated and one I would want to use all winter long.
The 5 elements to create a simple yet special tablescape
Start with a clean table.
1. Add a runner or a table cloth. For me, it’s an easy way to instantly dress a table and make it feel a little more special. I chose a runner because we just got a new dining table from Ikea that I’ve been eyeing for a while and didn’t want to cover it. I recently used a couple old white curtain panels as table cloths and they were perfect. You can also make your own table runners or use a roll of parchment paper which I’ve done many times as well.
2. Candles. I just love the warmth and cozy feeling candles give! It also just makes any table feel a little fancier, doesn’t it?! I saw some led taper candles here which is totally perfect if you want the glow but don’t want burning candles. I did a mix of 3 different sets in varying heights to add movement and interest, but kept a nice and simple flow.
3. Foliage and/ or flowers. They add life and a natural touch and the best part is you can go right out, maybe in your garden, yard or maybe even on your walk around the neighborhood for free! We have 2 magnolia trees in our back yard and I love that these last a little longer than other clippings. I later wanted to break up all the green so just threw in some oranges to add a pop of color.
4. Cloth Napkins.
Just like putting down a runner and/or table cloth, cloth napkins just give that extra touch of special. Honestly all of the above does just that. And aren’t these so so simple? Simple yet special, my favorite! I like getting my cloth napkins at Homegoods, TjMaxx, Target, and World Market because they’re cute, great quality and affordable. If you want to get even more low cost and have some sewing machine skills, it’s super easy to just find a thrifted table cloth or use one you already have and cut out and sew napkins from them.
5. White dishes and everyday silverware.
We recently got these new silverware for everyday and I just love the simplicity and will be perfect with any table setting. We’ve had these simple white plates since we first got married 11 years ago and they are still going strong. The wine glasses we’re also since we got married and definitely makes things a little more fancy. The Christmas appetizer plates are from the Hearth and Hand line last season but I chose them because they are simple and classic. They came out this year with a very similar Christmas dish set.
Shop our dining room and tablescape
similar Christmas appetizer plates
Hope you enjoyed today’s post and feel excited to dress up your tables whether it’s just your own household or hosting a party! Below are some friends also sharing their Holiday table creations to give you more ideas this year!
10 holiday tablescape ideas
Festive Christmas Tablescape | Rooms for Rent
Cozy Holiday Tablescape | Maison de Cinq
Special Christmas Table| Almafied
Nature Inspired Christmas Table | Crazy Wonderful
Simple Blue Christmas Tablescape | Nina Hendrick
Blue + White China Christmas Table | Designthusiasm
Holiday Housewalk Tablescape | Jennifer Rizzo
Easy Holiday Table | Maison de Pax
A Small Holiday Get-Together | Shabbyfufu
Layered Holiday Tablescape | My Sweet Savannah
Shelley Westerman
December 8, 2020It’s beautiful, Alma! I am so envious of your magnolia trees!!
Shelley Westerman recently posted…Nature Inspired Christmas Table
Almafied
December 8, 2020Aww thanks girl! And to think we almost cut one down this year.
Almafied recently posted…Creating a stress free and special Christmas table to enjoy all winter long
Rachel Paxton
December 8, 2020This is beautiful! I love the classic look of Magnolia leaves.
Almafied
December 8, 2020Thanks Rachel! I feel the same about them, there’s something about their big and shiny 2 tone leaves!
Almafied recently posted…Creating a stress free and special Christmas table to enjoy all winter long
Sheila
December 9, 2020I couldn’t agree more about this year Alma. It’s been tough, but the one silver lining has been spending more time together and lingering family dinners around the table – which I hope to have more of this holiday season!
Love your pretty table, too. The magnolia leaves are perfect for the season and I’m in love with the cute plates!
sheila
xo
Connie @ Ketaminescottsdale
July 26, 2022This is wholesome! May everyone viewing this have a day filled with happiness and winnings ❤️❤️
Shahzad
December 25, 2023Your Christmas table is simply enchanting! I love how you’ve embraced the beauty of simplicity with the tablecloth, candles, foliage, and those charming Christmas appetizer plates. It’s inspiring and perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Cheers to memorable moments around your special table this winter! 🌟
John
July 23, 2024Great tips for a stress-free Christmas table! Love the ideas for making the space warm and inviting. Perfect for creating lasting holiday memories!