Festive winter tablescapes for your holiday season

by Jamie Jamieson 11/28/2023

Decorating for winter holiday parties often includes creating tablescapes. Whether you’re setting up a buffet style party or hosting an intimate meal around the dining room table, tablescapes are a wonderful accent to your party decor.

But how do you go about creating a tablescape? Here is a basic guide to get you started.

Parts of a tablescape

Tablescapes come in all styles and levels of complexity. However, most designs generally include some of the following:

  • Basic table setting pieces like dishes, glassware and silverware.
  • Decorative accessories like candles, place mats, table runners, napkin rings and decorative serving dishes.
  • Natural accents like live plants, flower bouquets, pine cones and branches.

Holiday tablescape basics

For holiday table decorating, you might want to include a table runner in festive colors, accented by miniature bottle brush trees as a natural backdrop. Candy canes are a simple way to add holiday cheer and make for decor that’s also a sweet treat.

Woodsy winter hues

If you’re not sure where to begin with your tablescape, consider a color palette. Winter holiday designs are often full of rich, deep tones like ruby red, forest green and chestnut brown. Pair deep, dark hues with a bright pop of classic red from fresh cranberries or holly berries.

Silvery & bright

For a lighter and brighter winter wonderland tablescape, try shades of white and sparkling silver, gold or glass accents. Glass candlesticks, crystal bowls, pitchers or even simple mason jars can help reflect the light and create a cozy glow.

Minimalist chic

Sometimes the simplest designs are the most effective. Try using the classic combination of black and white to create an ultra-modern and minimalist tablescape. Keep the centerpiece and accessories in a single color or material to add depth without taking too much attention. Try subtle pine cones or a single holly berry branch in a clear vase.


Whether you’re cooking a holiday feast or sharing some holiday spirit with a smaller gathering, beautiful table decor can take your event to the next level. Keep these winter tablescape tips for your next holiday season.

About the Author
Author

Jamie Jamieson

Professional Association National Association of Realtors (NAR) New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR) Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors/ Hudson Gateway Multiple Listing Service Education I hold an A.A in Italian Studies and an A.S in Accounting as well as being one of few students accepted into the Cambridge University International Student Study Program abroad as a returning student in 2011. Community Involvement I am proud to serve on the Home & School Board for St. Augustine School in Ossining and maintain the role of a Girl Scout leader. I am an active member of the community assisting in a variety of fundraising efforts. Personal I am a young and energetic agent who prides myself on providing personalized service with honest representation whether you are buying or selling your home. My expertise of the river towns, attention to detail and excitement for real estate are a few of the many assets I will bring to you. I will utilize my eagerness and market knowledge of the area to build lasting relationships with all of my clients that will extend far beyond the closing table. Be at ease from start to finish with my help. In my spare time, I love exploring the Hudson Valley with my husband, three children and our dog, Pippin. I love scoping out the infinite restaurants, farmers markets and other fabulous activities this exciting county has to offer. Experience Before joining William Raveis Legends Realty Group I started my career with Hudson Homes Sotheby's International Realty team. Prior to real estate, I had a remarkable 15+ year career in Restaurant Management/Hospitality including Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Rivermarket and several establishments in Newport, Rhode Island. My experience in that field provided me with the foundation of excellence in customer service. Areas Covered All of Westchester County and parts of Putnam County.