A 5-Tip Guide to Festive Table Decorations For Your Holiday Cocktail Party
The holiday season is upon us, which means it is time to “deck the halls” and tables with the finest holiday decorations. And while most hosts have a faint idea about their Christmas dinner menu, or all the presents that need to be wrapped, table setting is the oft-ignored aspect of decorations that is usually left for the last minute.
Throw in a runner there, stick a flower arrangement in the centre, and one can call it a day.
But, in case you want to spruce up your space for holiday cocktail parties with something more than standard decor, and hunting for ideas, here’s a list that caters to all kinds of party hosts.
Select the Colour Palette
Before delving into the specifics of the decor, it is key to select a colour palette that represents the party's overall theme. Therefore, if you are going for a traditional Christmas cocktail party, select a chequered pattern table cover with deep red and rich green.
Chequered reds and greens patterned fabrics evoke the traditional festive gatherings of the yore. However, if you prefer a contemporary setting, you may want to opt for pastel pinks and mauves with silver accents, or perhaps off-whites and other desaturated colours paired with muted metallics.
Whichever colour palette you opt for, make sure to be consistent with it across all other decorative elements—centrepieces, place settings, cushions and sofa, and table linens.
Centrepieces
The centrepiece of your table setting is possibly the most important decorative element. After all, it is central to the decor. Take out your decorative china and use the vase as the flower pot. You can use real or artificial flowers, depending on your budget.
You can also stick candles of different heights into silver candle stands. Otherwise, lay out an arrangement of seasonal fruits like strawberries and grapes in a generous-sized crystal bowl.
Table Linens and Textiles
Selecting the right table linen is a critical part of festive table decoration. Damask and satin are good choices for table linens, because they look party-appropriate and also are easy to remove stains from. The decoration can be amped up further with the addition of table runners with fabrics like lace that complement the satin tablecloth.
Contrasting colours like deep purple and off-white, black and silver or gold, bring your guests’ attention to the table.
Tableware and Place Setting
The holiday season is the perfect opportunity to fish out the prized crystal and bone china tableware, reserved for “the big party” which never takes place.
Since it is a cocktail party, your table should be filled to the brim with snacks and titbits, and what better way to inaugurate your cherished silverware than a cocktail party. Use the big trays and vessels to set up a mini buffet for your guests.
Arrange your snacks in platters, so that your guests can have something to nibble on with their cocktail drinks. You can also serve the beverages in pitchers and punch bowls so that the guests can help themselves.
Seasonal Elements
Sprinkle seasonal elements throughout your table so that it smells pleasant. Dried rosemary and thyme are natural room fresheners, and thus can be kept in small pouches or serving dishes on the table.
You can also make a cluster with cinnamon sticks and stick it inside candle stands and diffusers so that your space smells like fresh cinnamon throughout the duration of the party.
Drink responsibly. This communication is intended for those aged 25 and above.
