Scottish Christmas table ideas to impress Santa in 2021
Did you know that Scotland is home to Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer? That’s right, roaming across the mountainsides of the Cairngorms, you’ll find a herd of 150+ real life Rudolphs!
Fans of our collections will know that animals have long been a source of inspiration for my art, so what a treat to have these incredible creatures, with their enormous tree-like antlers, right in our back garden! And, with that in mind, I’m really excited to be introducing our Christmas Reindeer Collection, printed in festive red, green, brown, and featuring my illustrations of reindeer and Winter foliage.
This is a collection I am super excited about, because included in the range are 3 brand new products: bone china serving plates, napkins and table runners! Just in time for festive celebrations. Leave Santa a tasty Winter beverage in one of our bone china mugs and prepare to wow guests with a truly Scottish Christmas presentation they’ll never forget.
Looking for a bit of extra inspiration? Here are my tips for the perfect festive table display this Winter …
How should I style my Christmas table?
I was always taught that the key to an eye-catching table was choosing a theme that people will love. I like to keep my tablecloths simple and create a real focal point with a dramatic table runner. For that extra festive feel, pair it with pretty Christmas garden side plates.
A lot of people like to add a centerpiece to encourage conversation. I recommend that you choose a slender centerpiece, candelabras or an ornament with a narrow base. If your guest list is anything like mine, you’ll want to free up as much space for food as possible. For something a bit different, potted plants are a great natural focal point (and they work so well with our prints of boxwood, mistletoe, cedar, and pine cones).
How can I make my Christmas table pop on a budget?
Continuing with our natural theme, foraging outdoors for those additional Christmas props is an effective, inexpensive way to make your table look inviting. A walk in the woods should treat you to some great natural accessories: branches, cones, and pine sprigs.
If you have children, this is a wonderful way to get them involved in your project (meaning they’ll be more likely to enjoy sitting down to their meal on the big day). Help them strew your findings across the table before laying plates and cutlery.
What’s the best way to add elegance to a Christmas table?
It’s all in the tiny details! I designed our new Christmas reindeer napkins in a way that means that they don’t need napkin rinks to stand out. However, taking a couple of minutes to iron your napkins will make a real difference to your final table look. Do this ahead of time so you don’t need to worry about these smaller details whilst cooking and hosting.
My table is small. Any tips for keeping things festive without taking up valuable space?
If you’re trying to keep your table clear, then why not take advantage of the surrounding space? Carry your table runner or napkin theme into your dining chairs by decorating them with matching accessories. Coloured ribbon is always pretty, whilst boughs of fir hung from chair backs (with or without pine cones/berries) will create a real ‘wow’ moment as your guests arrive.
Alternatively, make use of your ceiling or walls. Whilst exploring the Christmas table trends of 2022, I spotted a number of designers hanging wreaths above tables. It may sound a bit unusual, but the styling real caught my eye, and it’s a wonderful way to bring natural and Autumnal hues into your home.
Any other finishing touches you’d recommend?
Nothing shows your guests you care about them quite like a little personalised name card. Keep it simple with handwritten cards, or get creative with one of these incredible DIY place card ideas.
If you’re looking for something to keep the kids busy on the run up to your festive feast, this task is perfect!
A little surprise for your guests …
I’ll never forget the time I went to a dinner party and the host had placed a small gift on each of our plates. Stocking filler surprises are a sure way to delight your diners (and a great way to distract them from any kitchen mishaps or delays). On a budget? Choose something small like our stylish pin badges, handy pocket mirrors, or delightful Christmas Reindeer Coasters.
For a more elaborate treat, hang a Reindeer Tote Bag from the back of each chair and fill them with goodies from your favourite local businesses. A Christmas stocking with a sustainable Scottish twist!
Whichever way you choose to style your table, remember to have fun with it! This is a time to get together with your loved ones and celebrate with great food and a glass of wine (or two?).