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I’ve hosted exactly zero (indoor) dinner parties in nearly two years, which is probably why I’m irrationally excited about Christmas table decorations. And while I’m not necessarily planning to go way over the top with decor, I am leaning into the idea that more is more. My 2021 holiday table will have more color, more patterns, more greenery, more warmth, and more joy—which can all be accomplished without anything too formal or trendy. In fact, it’s really just a matter of layering modern takes on classic holiday decor like cozy plaid, evergreen accents (real or fake), and lots of taper candles.
The beauty of this approach to holiday table styling is that nearly every item here can be used on its own throughout winter, but when you put them all together (and light an excessive amount of candles, of course), it feels fun and festive. Here are seven ideas and 21 products to use for your Christmas table decorations in 2021.
Fresh Evergreen
Fresh evergreen instantly turns any table into a holiday table, whether you put a few fir sprigs in bud vases or use a fluffy cedar garland as a runner. A trip to your local hardware store or neighborhood tree lot is probably the most cost-effective way to acquire it, but there’s always the chance it will sell out or just look really sad by the time you get it home. If you’d rather be guaranteed gorgeous greenery in time for your big dinner, order online instead.
Artificial Garland
As much as I love decorating for the holidays with freshly cut greens, I hate constantly sweeping up the needles. Plus, no matter how fresh a clipping is, it’s technically already half dead. Enter the fake garland: It’s reliably gorgeous, requires no spritzing, and never drops a needle. It also makes a beautiful “natural” runner for a holiday table. Unfortunately, finding a realistic-looking artificial garland isn’t as easy as product descriptions would lead you to believe. But I have both of these beauties and can attest to their realistic composition (just don’t look too closely at the one from Target).
Classic Taper Candles in Sturdy Holders
Candles are the easiest way to create a festive, intimate ambiance for two people or 20. And they’re like guests in the Before Times: the more the merrier. I like taper candles for a crowded holiday table because of their small footprint, just be sure to use sturdy holders that won’t tip over if they get bumped when you’re passing the gravy.
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Coordinating Cookware
There’s a time and a place for cool vintage Pyrex and Corningware, but if you’re going for a cohesive look for your holiday table, consider an upgrade to something more neutral. White or off-white oven-to-table cookware works with just about any holiday decor and can be used year-round. (Plus, it always looks good on Instagram.)
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Vintage-Inspired Glass Ornaments
If your table still needs a little something, bring in a mix of vintage-inspired mercury glass ornaments. They’re shiny without being too glitzy, and white and mixed-metal shades work with all kinds of decor. You can snake an ornament garland along the length of your table (with or without a runner or greenery) or attach a gift tag to individual ornaments and use them as place cards.
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A Neutral Tablecloth
I’m not usually a tablecloth person. My style tends to be more eclectic than formal, and a tablecloth feels like a formality (plus, it’s just another thing to wash). But my tabletop is in pretty rough shape after two years at home with two small kids, so this year I’m creating a neutral base with solid linen. It’s an easy way to cover scuffs and Sharpie marks and the relaxed texture means my setup will still feel cozy and casual.
A Plaid Table Runner
Even (or especially) if you skip the tablecloth, a runner is a great way to add color and texture to your holiday table. It’s also an extra layer of protection from hot serving dishes and dripping candles. I’m all about green plaid for Christmas this year, but even black-and-white buffalo check can feel festive when you pair it with fresh evergreen, cozy candles, and shiny ornaments.
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