Even for the most seasoned hosts and hostesses, December doubles as an Olympic night. Holiday decorating ideas need to be thought through carefully, placemats need to be cohesive, dress codes need to be communicated, and holiday treats need to be scented to perfection. Participating in these practices is only part of what makes the season so festive.
While there are many golden standards and hospitality rules (like being mindful of your seating plans and personally greeting each of your guests), the way a host chooses to decorate isn’t as rigid. Some are keeping the holiday tradition alive with classic Baccarat crystal and antique porcelain decorative items that will remain in fashion forever. Others choose to have a little more fun with more original accessories and playful table decorations. And some express their undying love for the holiday spirit through Christmas-themed tableware.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a big party in mind that rivals Truman Capote’s black and white ball or if you go for something a little more intimate, the possibilities to create the party that leaves attendees in awe and non-participants. attendees hoping for next year’s invitation are endless.
Below, shop for holiday decorating ideas that will ensure your celebration is a memorable one.
Classically opulent
Baccarat Harcourt 1841 glass
Hermès Bleus d’Ailleurs dinner plate
Towel Juliska Country Estate Delft
Pair of vintage brass and twisted Lucite candlesticks
Kim Seybert botanical placemat
Cabana Gapri • Gstaad salt shaker golden shell with spoon
Maximum host
Villeroy & Boch Audun Ferme teapot
Kim Seybert Laurel Gold & Silver Charger, Set of 4
House of Hackney Saber Midnight Large Velvet Pillow
Pair of gilt bronze candlesticks with turquin marble base
Set of 4 Vietri Bohème linen napkins red and gold tree
Kim Seybert napkin ring
Imperial Porcelain Cobalt Mesh Caviar Dish
A playful delight
Hand Painted Misette Monochrome Twisted Cream Vine Candles
Set of four Ikat Les Ottomans print wine glasses
La DoubleJ set of six porcelain dessert plates from Transylvania
Gunia project. tiger candle
Tablecloth The Edition 94 x Darn Meadow
Crate & Barrel Liloo faux marble vase arrangement
Moda Domus Carnation Porcelain Pitcher
The holiday spirit reigns
Handmade Ceramic Christmas Tree The Ottomans
Lenox Holiday Dinner Plates, Set of 6
West Elm Modern Brass Candle Holders (Set of 9)
Williams Sonoma La Maison Scalamandré Tumblers, set of 4
West Elm Kraft & Glitter Garland
Villeroy & Boch Bellisimo cake stand
Hermès Balcon du Guadalquivir tea cup and saucer
Modern and artistic
Villeroy & Boch Purismo red wine decanter
Reflections Copenhagen Dallas Double Layer Crystal Cake Stand
Ladorada horn veneer trio of candle holders
West Elm Graf Lantz felt placemat set
West Elm Keraclay speckled napkin rings
The Many Faces of Red rug inspired by Josef Albers