You can set your table, or you can ‘scape’ it. Tablescaping is the art of transforming a meal into an adventure or experience your guests will never forget.
With the social scene now taking full priority, the new trend has dinner parties taking pleasure in scaping their tables in elaborate fashion to wow guests.
So here we’ve put together a simple step by step guide to creating the perfect setting for that Christmas party or luncheon, alongside some tips from our expert friends in this field - Boutierre Girls @boutierre_girls, if you feel like really flexing your creative muscles.
The Beginner’s Guide to Creating a Picture-Perfect Christmas Tablescape
Step One: Start With A Clean Base
Before you do anything make sure you start with the basics of cleaning and uncluttering a beautiful marble surface or adding a crisp white tablecloth. We find this helps fuel your creative muscles.
Step Two: Set The Mood With A Theme
A theme is always a good idea, whether you are going for a classic red and green or a more contemporary colour palette or something more extraordinary like Enchanted Wood or Snowy Christmas scenes, the way to style a cohesive and elegant table is to pick a theme and express it throughout the tableware and decorations – keep this in mind when gathering items. You will find Pinterest are a wealth of ideas and inspiration.
Don’t limit yourself to one shade, mix different colours that harmonise each other. We recommend incorporating metallics to add an extra sparkle, using our Raspberry & Rhubarb scented soy candle to the space.
Step Three: Time To Create An Impact
The focal point of your table is the centerpiece! Taking notes from Boutierre Girls (@boutierre_girls), “the recipe for a beautiful floral and festive tablescape are a vase/floral foam (purchase from Spotlight or your local florist) + 1-2 foliage varieties + 4-5 flower varieties + CIRCA scented Soy Candles”.
• To start, find a pair of snips/scissors to use to cut the stems to varying heights. Take your vase or floral foam, if you’re using a floral foam it will need to be soaked in water. Fill up your sink and pop it in, it should sink to the bottom when ready.
• Start adding 1-2 elements of foliage/greenery varieties as the foundation of your arrangement, “Foliage will ensure your tablescape has texture and shape, include some at varying heights to create a nice shape. We used geranium, blueberry foliage and deutzia."
• Next is to follow with hero larger focal flowers that are in season. “We used 10 stems of pink roses, 5 stems of pale pink peonies, 5 stems of coral peonies, 5 stems of lupins, and 10 stems of pink alstroemeria.”
Flowers are a non-negotiable element of any tablescape centerpiece, adding a fresh and lively dimension to the table, making the space look more inviting and engages the senses. To keep it all cost effective and fresh, buy what is in season.
Watch How The Boutierre Girls Put Together Our Festive Centerpiece
Step Four: Add Decorative Elegant Touches
This is where the look comes together. Plating, cutlery and napkins are the second most important part of everyday tablescapes as this is a powerful way of setting the tone for the whole table.
Use this time as an excuse to dust off those fine pieces of china, fine dining cutlery and champagne flutes to make the setting extra luxurious. As a rule of thumb, cloth napkins are a MUST have for the table, as they make the occasion feel special.
Finish off your table setting with festive lighting to add a relaxing and intimate atmosphere. “Pair it with yummy scented soy candles, aka the Gingerbread Cookies” – Boutierre Girls favourite. In a limited edition antique gold vessel, it will add a radiant soft glow making your table sparkle and shine – literally! Not only does it look spectacular, it elevates the fragrance of festiveness to another level.
Step Five: Don't Forget The Details
Consider a few small additions to give your tablescape more personality. As a fun and festive placeholder to finish off dressing the table, add our Mini Candle Bon Bon Trio for an luxurious alternative to your run-of-the-mill holiday bon bon. To make your guests feel even more special, add a personalised touch with handwritten place cards.
Step Six: Pretend You're A Guest
When designing a tablescape, keep in mind that your guests will need space to eat, drink and be merry. Step back and observe the table setting, is it comfortable for your guests? Sit down and pretend you’re a guest at the table. Most importantly gaze around the table to make sure there is clear visual for eye contact.
Step Seven: Final Touches
Now that you have created the perfect tablescape, ensure your entryway is welcoming to guests and fill the air with festive fragrance. Try; our Raspberry & Rhubarb Liquidless Diffuser set, an always on fragrance option ideal for busy thoroughfares.
There you have our simple styling tips to create a luxurious, festive table setting with the help of Boutierre Girls (@boutierre_girls). Step back and relish in the reaction of your guests when they’re wowed by your elaborate and beautifully laid table. Don’t forget to share your Christmas table styling on our Instagram, @circafragrances. Importantly, Enjoy and Celebrate moments that matter.