Festive Tablescape Tips & Trends
This month I had the pleasure of hosting a number of Seasonal Table Styling Workshops for Karrinyup. In this blog I am sharing some of the key tips and trends that I covered.
The Elements of a Successful Tablescape
Before we jump into specific styles, here are a few key tips to set you up for success:
Start with Practicalities: Consider your location (indoor or outdoor), your audience (adults, kids, or both), and whether you’ll serve food at the table or buffet-style. Table size and type, whether a trestles for additional room, and of course checking you have enough seating!
Set a Foundation: Tablecloths and table runners set the tone. Layer with plates, napkins, and cutlery to add depth and texture.
Play with Height & Shape: Candlesticks and floral arrangements add vertical interest—just keep them low enough so guests can see each other. For horizontal balance, long garlands or table runners make a beautiful focal point.
Add Natural Elements: Flowers, greenery, or even seasonal fruits and vegetables (like tomatoes and lemons) can bring dimension to your display and are very on trend when mixed with florals. Stick to one or two flower varieties for a cohesive look.
Prepare Ahead: Set up your table a day or two in advance, or do a test run a week before so you can tweak and be ready with any extra styling elements so you can have fun on the day.
Elements ready for the coastal setting, from Bed Bath N’ Table and House.
1. Coastal Table Setting
Perfect for Perth’s relaxed, coastal lifestyle, this look combines soft tones, natural textures, and subtle festive touches.
Key Elements:
A serene colour palette of sage green, crisp white, or a blue coastal aesthetic.
Rattan placemats, linen napkins, and organic textures.
Eucalyptus or natural branches for a fresh, coastal vibe.
Subtle gold or silver accents through decorations or glassware.
Styling Tip: Mix and match plates with simple patterns or stripes, and add layers with stacked tableware and textured table linens.
Draping is a big trend and this worked well for this styling concept. I used a large linen tablecloth draped down the centre of the table to add texture and movement and carried this style through ot hte napkins.
2. Classic Table Setting
Classic, timeless, and versatile, this style brings together the festive favourites of red, green, and gold. Perfect for a formal dinner or a fun family gathering.
Key Elements:
Lush garlands paired with elegant candlesticks.
Red and white stripes or gold chargers to add a festive flair.
White dinnerware layered with accents like seasonal berries or fruit (pears work beautifully for a sophisticated touch).
Styling Tip: Elevate the look with glassware and polished cutlery, and don’t be afraid to add height with dramatic urns or floral arrangements.
White tablecloths are a classic for a reason. Tableware from House and Big W.
Adding layers in your settings as well as an alternative to a Christmas cracker with the chocolates and berry accents. Adding bows to anything and everything, like the candlesticks pictured, is continuing as a trend.
3. Italian Summer Festive Table Setting
Vibrant, playful, and ideal for alfresco dining, this style is a huge trend right now and celebrates bold colours, patterns, and a cheerful atmosphere—perfect for summer entertaining.
Key Elements:
Pattern-clashing linens and bright, dopamine-inducing hues.
Rustic displays of tomatoes, lemons, and crusty breadsticks for a Mediterranean vibe.
Charming tableware, like scalloped placemats and printed menus, that bring personality to the table.
Styling Tip: Use different vase heights for your floral arrangements to keep the table interesting, and let your colour and pattern palette be the focus.
More is more! Items from Myer, David Jones (In The Roundhouse plates), Sheridan, Adairs, Bed Bath N’ Table, Big W and The Somewhere Co.
Layering textures, colours and patterns.
Final Tips for an Unforgettable Table
Layer your plates and glassware to create depth and visual interest.
If using flowers, group one to two varieties together for a clean, cohesive look.
Don’t forget the details: personalised place cards, Christmas crackers, or small guest gifts add that extra special touch.
Match your sideboard or serving area with your table theme for a seamless look.
Above all, have fun with the process! Whether you’re going for elegant, traditional, or vibrant, a well-styled table will create an inviting space that your friends and family will love and remember.
Until Next Time,
Juliet