How to add wow factor to your Christmas table | When It Alteration Finds

How to add wow factor to your Christmas table this year

I’m not much of a cook, but I do love a chance to set the table! When it comes to tablescapes your Christmas table is the big one. The whole family will be there and it’s a great excuse to go all out. I like to set things up on Christmas Eve, so I can take my time adding the finishing touches which really make it special.

Inspired by John Lewis’s Amber theme and B&Q’s Nordic Nature collection I’ll be focusing on a rustic glam look in this post. Whatever you choose follow the steps below and you’re guaranteed to have a Christmas table with WOW factor.

If you’re undecided on the look for your Christmas table this year check out my top five Christmas decorating ideas for inspiration.

Rustic Glam

Bring rustic right up to date by pairing neutral tones and natural textures with a bit of bling. Layer simple white crockery with gold cutlery. Add candles or fairy lights to greenery. Include some baubles on the table or hang them above with paper lanterns and stars. I love that this look is both cosy and elegant, perfect for Christmas.


1) Tableware

For a rustic look a wooden table is perfect, but for more elegant schemes opt for a plain tablecloth to act as a blank canvas. Most of us have white plates in the cupboard and the good news is that they are perfect for nearly all Christmas looks if paired with a coloured accessories. Wooden rounds or metallic chargers are very on-trend at the moment. Create a layered table setting by stacking your dinner plate, side plate and napkin on top. Add gold or copper cutlery for a bit of glamour.

John Lewis & PartnersMaisons du MondeMaisons du Monde

2) Glassware

Add a wine glass and a water glass to each place setting. Tinted or patterned glassware is lovely to invest in and bring out for special occasions. If you have a big group then mix and match two complimentary designs. Vases or glass cloches will add height and create fab focal points.

Maisons du MondeJohn Lewis & PartnersJohn Lewis & Partners



3) Candles and lighting

For me nothing creates a Christmas ambiance quite like the glow of candles and fairy lights. Tapered candles are a great way to add height to your table or you could top each individual place setting with a tea light holder. Flameless LED candles can be safely placed among any greenery or use a string of battery powered fairy lights and you won’t have to deal with power cords.

B&QB&QMaisons du Monde

4) Greenery

Yes, it’s traditional but in my opinion Christmas just isn’t complete without a bit of greenery. Running a garland up the middle of your table provides an instant centrepiece and it can be easily customised to match your scheme. Pre-made garlands can be a bit pricey, so I prefer to start with some greenery (real or artificial) and add pine cones, flowers or fairy lights to suit the year. Ivy or pine work well with more traditional schemes or go for eucalyptus for a more modern look.

The RangeThe RangeThe Range

5) Festive touches

Finally, decorations aren’t just for the tree! Pick a selection of baubles or home-made decorations to match your design and nestle them in your central garland to add character. Alternatively hang them with paper lanterns or origami stars above the table to create a stunning display. You could also borrow a tip from my Auntie and add gifts tags to form a place card / small gift for each of your guests.

John Lewis & PartnersThe RangeJohn Lewis & Partners

For more Christmas inspiration check out:


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How to add wow factor to your Christmas table | When It Alteration Finds
How to add wow factor to your Christmas table | When It Alteration Finds

For more inspiration check out my board on Pinterest.