A French Finishing Touch for Your Christmas Table

The countdown has begun! Christmas is just around the corner and no matter how prepared you think you are, there are nearly always a few last minute things to do. Hopefully the lists are getting shorter (even if they appear to be getting longer!). The decorations are going up and the meals are being planned. This is therefore a good time to think about how to decorate the Christmas table adding a French finishing touch as inspiration.

The centrepiece is a good place to start and although you might think it easier just to go out and buy something, it’s probably worth looking around to see what you already have in the house and add some festive cheer to it. The design can be simple or complicated according to the time available and the level of expertise.

The Finishing Touches

Sometimes just a pretty Christmas decoration surrounded by a couple of twinkling candles is enough to make a statement. A cake stand decorated with baubles, greenery, berries, candles or fruit (or a mixture of some or all of these) makes a stunning display without too much artistic talent! And a covered cheese dome can look really great with coloured sparkling baubles tucked inside and a sprig of holly on the top. I love the idea of this hanging decoration of ivy leaves, wire and silver bells in the above photo. Fairly simple to do but stunningly effective and a perfect way to save space on the table.

Once you’ve decided on the centrepiece, it’s easier to think about the rest of the table decoration. This is where it’s nice to add some personal touches. Place card holders are handy for guests to know where to sit and you could put their French names on them for a simple twist. A small table present for each guest will always be appreciated – sounds like something else to add to that ‘to do’ list! Twinkling little votives bring a relaxed calm to the table and if you wish, a mini Eiffel tower or NOEL letters creates a French theme. And colour? As you can see, this year I am loving a simple white decor with just a hint of green foliage (with a touch of pink). Not too much to think about at this busy time of year but still easy on the eye.

It is likely that a fair amount of time will be spent sitting around the dining table, so comfort and perhaps some extra cushions need to be considered. Above everything else the Christmas season is there to be enjoyed so let’s not stress too much about the table décor. Instead let’s concentrate on the joy and laughter of the people around the table at this lovely time of year.

Joyeux Noël!

•With thanks to Frenchicandshabby
Photos from The Contemporary Home