Jingle Bells, and Ho Ho Ho, and all that jazz? What about candlesticks, and mistletoe, and some pizazz?

Let’s. Talk. Tablescapes! What is a tablescape? It’s a formal way to dress up your table for the holidays. It’s taking the word landscape which is “an artwork of scenery”—and adding the word “table”. Combining it together, you get a “scenery of the table”.

If I could describe in three words, the perfect tablescape, it would be:

1.       Cozy

2.       Interesting

3.       Luscious

Let’s take it step-by-step. You will be on your way to a cozy setting for your holiday feast.

Step 1: Decide a theme for your décor. Do you want simple and hearty rustic décor? Maybe a little bit of traditional English style Christmas décor?  Or maybe you want to glam it up with a Hollywood style contemporary décor. Deciding your style upfront helps you decide what to look for to use in your tablescape. It might help to go ahead and decide your budget at this point too—that way you know if you are searching for items in your home, or going shopping for new things.

Step 2: Gather your styling items. The key to this tablescape is being cozy, interesting, and luscious. Find things that you can stack and layer (check out our last blog post for fall and winter styling with layers). We want things that bring warmth to the space and allow your guests to feel like they are getting a true experience. Tablescapes are all about “the experience”. Use ornaments in a bowl, candlesticks, and a table runner. You may also want a touch of greenery since many homes are decorated with evergreens during the holidays. This will allow the tabelscape to fit right in with the rest of your home. Find some décor that is reflective of light. This helps do two things: It will draw in light to your dining area since often we have lower lighting to set the mood and it brings a touch of elegance. Things to use might be mercury glass ornaments, mirrors, silver candlesticks, tinsel, or crystal. Don't be afraid to use color, if it fits in with your aesthetic. We want a combination of things that help the table feel full and happy. A happy table makes for happy guests.

Step 3: You’re ready to create. For the first look we went with a simple tablescape with slight drama. Black candle holders feel chic. The wooden beads are earthy and the place settings are warm with texture. This is a functional table space perfect for any dinner party. This table was designed by our head designer, Aubrey.

Voila! A perfect tablescape.

Check out these other inspiring table settings.

This amazing and rustic tablescape was designed by Liz Marie Galvan and is featured on her blog: lizmarieblogs.com

It is really cozy and vintage! She has layered greens, wood, and farmhouse treasures. The unique shapes carry your eye around and create an interesting vignette.

This next tablescape is styled by Lindsey from Motherchic.com.

This festive take on a holiday table setting is beautiful. The plaids warm up the space. It has some rustic influences but maintains a classic Christmas look with touches of gold.

… And those chairs?! So. fun.

We hope your holidays are filled with whimsical design and family time. Merry Christmas from Autumn Rose!

www.autumnrose.com