The Holidays—the time of year many people find strength in their beliefs, gratitude for blessings received, wonder in the beauty of the world around us, and hopefully, peace within self, or at least within the family. LOL!

Will you be entertaining this year? With so many holidays to observe, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Years, etc., you may likely be hosting. So, I thought for this year’s post, I would focus on the holiday table and share some inspiration.

Preparing and serving a meal can be as much of a gift for the host, as it is for his or her guests. I believe it is an opportunity to share not only your culinary talents and your home but to produce a warm and delightful atmosphere that will create a memorable experience to be cherished by all who attend.  

Your table will speak to your guests. It is an opportunity to tell a story—your story—or show your unique personality. For example, including illustrated plates and whimsical decor will create a light and playful mood prompting delightful and anecdotal conversations.

A more sophisticated selection in your tableware might be more your thing. Classic, modern, artisanal, or organic are all wonderful tablescapes you can create. I saw this artisanal plate set and it reminded me of a partridge in a pear tree, but presented in a very biophilic way. 

With either the artisan pottery above or in this table below, you can tell a beautiful story by shaping it with natural elements and colors.

Maybe the holidays bring about family traditions you would like to improve. Sometimes, looking at your history can inspire adding a new style or embellish an existing. Not only does this fuel your creative juices, but it is an opportunity to build new narratives. 

Here’s an idea; Instead of table seating cards, use a small photo of each family member in a special frame. Something they can have as a gift when they leave.

I have, from time to time, enjoyed the royal treatment, you know, the Downton Abbey effect, but without the staff. A sense of grandeur that most people only do during the holidays, so this style is perfect for the season and over-the-top is fun! Get out your china, silver, and crystal that hides away in the buffet cabinet all year long, and enjoy dining in luxury with family and friends. Chances are they have not had many royal dining experiences during the year either, so make it all the more wonderful.

Be it modern or traditional, setting the table is a sheer delight in my book. It is a chance to experiment. I like to mix styles and periods, new color combinations and flower arrangements. Make it like your own fun treasure hunt for the holidays by finding and incorporating the unexpected.  

Call it sentiment, call it the 'holiday spirit,' either way, there is something extraordinary about this time of year that makes our formal dining celebrations more special.

I hope these ideas inspired you, now go inspire your holidays!