The Christmas Table 101

With only four more sleeps til the big day, the chances are you’ve turned your mind to the on the day details (or you’re still shopping and haven’t got anything wrapped but we’ll gloss over that). For us, one of the most memorable parts of Christmas Day and the days surrounding it are the conversation and laughter which take place around the table. It really does feel like the centre of celebrations so it’s only right that we offer the table a little extra attention. 

Gathering your most beloved around a table, laden with plates filled with delicious festive food is a real treat. Getting them together around a beautifully laid table is where the real magic happens. This close to Christmas and in the current climate we’re not encouraging you to go out and spend lots on new pieces, instead we’re sharing our Christmas Table 101, with a small selection of tips to bear in mind when planning your own table of cheer. 

Never Predictable Layering

More is officially more at Christmas. In the Coco & Wolf world we will always encourage layering, be it on beds or tables, but even outside of this, Christmas is the perfect excuse to go a little over the top. You likely already have a gorgeous collection of table linen - it might be newly purchased Coco & Wolf linens or family heirlooms, either way, now is the chance for them to shine. Layer up tablecloths, runners, placemats and napkins for lots of fun, contrast and texture. If you don’t have a contrasting runner you can always fold a tablecloth and use that - there’s no rules at Christmas!

Don’t feel you have to stick to the traditional conventions of red and green at Christmas - your Christmas table should still be to your taste, after all. We like to look towards our favourite festive Liberty prints for unpredictable colour scheme inspiration. Think teal, red and gold inspired by Strawberry Thief or Wiltshire Star inspired navy, gold and lavender. Metallics always add beautiful shimmer and shine so don’t shy away from including them, either in fabrics or accessories. We’re planning a decidedly over-the-top pink, red and gold table with plenty of Wiltshire Star. 

Candlelight

Candles are a Christmas staple and we won’t be told otherwise. Candlelight creates an intimate mood and makes everything feel that little bit more sparkly. Your Christmas table isn’t the place to play with scent, but instead offers the perfect opportunity for lots of different heights to add interest and impact. Use a couple of colours from your layered linen for continuity or go for an unexpected contrast - both will create a magical ambience you won’t regret. 

Make It Your Own

Decorative details are your chance to have fun on your Christmas table and they can be incredibly transformative. Just as the typical conventions of linens and colours don’t need to be followed, neither do the final finishing touches. If you don’t love napkin rings, kiss them goodbye! Not got time to write place names? No sweat! Details can extend beyond the table too - add gorgeous Liberty cushions and sheepskin throws to chairs and benches for maximum comfort. 

A foliage garland down the middle of your table can add beautiful interest but will almost definitely use up all your serving dish space. Instead, think about going up! A couple of years ago we suspended a lichen covered branch above the table draped with fairy lights, Coco & Wolf fabrics baubles and paper garlands and it was a beautiful talking point which didn’t take much effort at all. 

Who’s Around Your Table Is What Counts

And finally, despite everything said above, the thing which really matters at Christmas is the people gathered around your table. A Christmas table truly comes alive with the conversation and laughter not candles or sheepskin throws. If this year feels a little more tricky for whatever reason, just envelope yourself in the company of your loved ones. That is real Christmas magic.