How to set the perfect Scandi Christmas table

As an interior designer, I think it’s safe to say that one of my favourite things about Christmas is decorating. Table settings are particularly fun as you can change them up and make them unique each time. After all – the festive season is centred around food so no doubt you’ll be dressing the table a few times!

For me, a table should feel special and luxurious, but not too formal – you want to feel relaxed around the table. Drawing on typical Scandi style and design, my table settings consist of natural elements, varied textures, earthy hues, touches of gold and a dash of Christmas glitz.

Using natural fibres, such as a linen tablecloth and cotton napkins in festive greens and clean whites, are an effortless way of integrating festive hues whilst staying true to the classic Nordic look. For my table setting this year, I’ve used an earthy green table cloth to help tie in with plant cuttings used in the centrepieces.

Still keeping close to nature, the next step is foliage. You can opt for classic holly cuttings or do what I’ve done and incorporate some of your favourite plants – here I’ve used a combination of textures, with eucalyptus and fern cuttings for the centrepiece. I’ve also added some fern leaves underneath the table cloths and tealights for continuity. The fresh foliage adds a lush feel along with a lovely smell.

 

Other natural decorations you could incorporate include cinnamon sticks, dried fruit, acorns and pinecones. Not to mention, these are all very cost effective ways of decorating.

Now you’ve got the base of your table decorations, you can begin adding the finishing touches. Bits of gold will elevate the table, adding drama and lifting the setting. Take some of your favourite Christmas tree decorations and dot them around the table, focusing on the centrepiece. Napkin rings and placemats are another way to add a splash of glamour; I’ve gone with gold this year but you could use twine to tie your napkins together, then slip a cinnamon stick and/or some red berries in.

In Denmark, we use candles to celebrate advent – I say the more candles the better, they will add warmth and ambience to any room and are the perfect way to creative a festive atmosphere.

If you want to really set the scene, extend the dinner party decorations past the table; try dusting off any old wooden toys you may have and adding seasonal, nostalgic touches.

Another inexpensive yet effective way to add maximum drama to your dinner table is to hang an arrangement of leaves, branches and flowers above the table with battery operated fairy lights.

Most importantly, have fun decorating and be creative – you’ll be surprised how little you have to spend to achieve a beautiful, inviting table setting.