How to Set a Merry Christmas Table (Two Easy Looks)
So, you're hosting Christmas this year? Exciting! Before the first plate of prawns hits the table, your table setting is already doing a lot of the work. It sets the mood, makes everyone feel welcome and turns a regular lunch into a proper celebration.
The good news? It doesn't need to take hours. With a few simple steps (and a couple of very merry Maxwell & Williams ranges) you'll have a table that looks like you planned it for weeks.
Step 1: Pick your vibe
Start by choosing a look. It makes every other decision easier, from the plates to the napkins. Here are two we love this year.
Look 1: Fa la la (fun and playful)
If your Christmas is loud, joyful and full of family, Fa la la is for you. Think scalloped edges, cheeky Santa dishes, tree-shaped serving plates and bow-topped mugs in sweet pinks, blues, reds and greens. It's playful without being over the top, and the kids will love it.
Look 2: White Christmas (classic and calm)
Prefer something a little more relaxed and elegant? White Christmas pairs crisp white with soft festive details and a touch of metallic sparkle. It's easy to dress up with candles and greenery, or keep simple for a breezy summer lunch.
Step 2: Start with your dinnerware
Your plates are the base of the whole table, so start here. A 12-piece dinner set gives you a dinner plate, side plate and bowl for four guests, so it's an easy way to cover the basics in one go. Got a bigger crowd? Grab a second set, or mix in plain white plates. Both ranges look great alongside classic white.
Step 3: Layer in your glassware
Next, add glasses. We like a wine glass for the grown-ups and a stemless glass for water, soft drink and the kids' table (they're much harder to knock over, too). Place glasses just above the knife, on the right of each setting.
Step 4: Serve it up in style
The centre of the table is where the magic happens. Here's how to make your serving pieces work hard:
- A footed cake stand for Christmas cake, mince pies or a stack of gingerbread.
- A tree dish for nibbles, lollies or chocolates.
- An oblong platter for ham, prawns or roast veggies.
- A gravy boat, because nobody likes a dry turkey.
- A footed trifle bowl for the dessert showstopper (try our easy Christmas trifle with mango and berries).
- A dip and spreader set for pre-lunch grazing while everyone arrives.
Tip: keep anything tall at the ends of the table, so guests can still see (and chat to) each other across the middle.
Step 5: Add the little extras
It's the small touches that make a table feel special. Pop festive coasters under glasses, tie a sprig of rosemary to each napkin, and hand the cook a Santa apron. For a true-blue touch, our Royal Botanic Gardens Christmas Bells coaster features the native Australian flower that blooms right on time for the holidays. And don't forget a cheery mug for that first Christmas morning coffee.
How to lay a place setting (the easy way)
- Dinner plate in the centre, with the bowl on top if you're serving an entrée.
- Side plate at the top left.
- Fork on the left of the plate.
- Knife on the right, blade facing in, with the spoon beside it.
- Glasses at the top right, above the knife.
- Napkin on the plate or to the left of the fork.
Make it Aussie
Christmas lunch outside? Set up in the shade, choose sturdy stemless glasses, and keep a jug of icy water on the table. Set everything up the night before, too. It's one less job on the big day, and you'll actually get to enjoy that first glass of bubbles with everyone else.
Shopping for someone who loves to host? These pieces come gift boxed, so they make a lovely present too. Browse more Christmas gift ideas.
Happy hosting!
The Matchbox Team
