In addition to our wreath making masterclass, which you can catch all the action on here, this Christmas we hosted a second festive masterclass with our creative developer and head stylist, Therese Moussa.
Since we’re crazy for all things The Nutcracker and the Four Realms this Christmas, Therese added a few playful elements to her traditional table styling in a night that finished with an abundant feast from our talented chef, Paul McGrath.
If you need a little inspiration in the lead up to hosting your nearest and dearest, here are Therese’s top tips for styling a dinner table that will wow them this Christmas.
1. SET YOUR COLOUR PALETTE
At the Grounds, we love playing with a traditional Christmas colour palette. This setting called for a tablecloth inspired by The Palace, a red damask fabric with scalloped edges, making it the perfect base to build an abundant setting on.
2. CREATE CENTREPIECES THAT APPEAL TO ALL YOUR SENSES
The Land of Flowers features colourful cascades of flowers at every turn. Bring the magic of this realm to dinner with centrepieces layered with spruce, holly and gilded sticks clustered down the table. Deep red candlesticks adorned upon antique brass candelabras add a touch of richness, and berries, roses & eucalyptus clustered in small jars add bring an extra layer of colour, texture and fragrance to the table.
In a nod to the Land of Snowflakes, layer golden baubles with snowflake detailing and for a more enchanting sparkle, spread fairy lights along the table runner.
3. ADD DETAIL WITH PLATE WARE, CUTLERY & GLASSWARE
For a look that pops against the damask tablecloth, this setting calls for a simple white plate with a contrasting green key-line rim. Matte copper cutlery (silver brass with detailed handles work well too) ties the festive feel together, and adds an additional texture to the setting. For a fuller look, if it suits what’s on the menu, place two sets of cutlery at each setting.
Add an elegant touch of crystal-cut, vintage-inspired glassware to bring even more detail and texture to the table. Go for the trifecta, and keep your guests merry, with three glasses per setting; a water glass, wine goblet and champagne flute. When your candles are lit, the reflections off the glassware will help your party sparkle.
4. ADD A TOUCH OF FUN FOR YOUR GUESTS
Inspired by the Land of Amusement, little engaging features are the perfect way to add a level of fun for your guests, such as bonbons in metallic tones for an element of surprise. On top of the plates, red napkins (to complement the tablecloth) tied with textured, metallic gold ribbon hold a candy cane to honour the Land of Sweets and a golden key detail just like Clara’s in the movie, although the only thing we’re planning to unlock is our appetite.
5. DON’T BE AFRAID TO ADD YOUR OWN TOUCHES
Christmas is all about sharing time with your loved ones and creating memories, so be sure you don’t sweat the small stuff. Add your own ideas, touches and creativity and whatever you do, make sure you have fun (that’s the most important part).
Merry Christmas from The Grounds family!