How is already halfway through September?!?!? I haven't even shared my summer photo reel yet LOL.
Nonetheless, the holiday season is almost here, which means more time gathered around the table with family and friends. With that in mind, today I'm sharing my signature formula for creating themed tablescapes for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's.
A thoughtfully styled table sets the tone for making memories while gathering over the holidays. With a few simple principles, you can create Fall or Winter tablescapes that completely embody the look and feel you want your guests to experience while visiting your home.
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1. PICK A THEME & COLOR SCHEME
Pick a theme and decide on 1- 3 main colors for your design. You can choose a holiday theme or more general theme such as minimalist, moody or whimsical as a starting point. Sticking to a theme and color scheme will keep your decor cohesive and elevate your tablescape.
2. LAYER TEXTILES
Textiles bring warmth and coziness to a room. Use tablecloths, runners or placemats as your base, then layer in napkins and woven chargers for softness. I like to mix textures to create interest in a space. My favorites are linen and cotton, but even paper or burlap add visual depth and make a table feel styled.
PRO TIP: Choose textiles colors that contrast with your table material to make the most impact. The contrast will and add more dimension to your space.
3. CHOOSE A CENTERPIECE
Your centerpiece should create a focal point for your dining room. However, it's important to keep arrangements at a low to medium height (less than 15") so they don't prevent conversation. Consider using taper candles, votives, bud vases or smaller decorative elements instead of one oversized piece to create interest without taking up too much visual space.
4. BALANCE DECORATION VS. FUNCTION
Remember that your table still needs to function for eating and serving. Be sure to leave enough space for plates, glasses and passing dishes. Decorations shouldn’t block sight lines or make guests feel crowded. Opt for table decor that is also functional, such as decorative salad bowls, cutting boards or beautiful glassware.
5. USE LAYERS OF LIGHTING
Lighting is one of the quickest ways to set the mood. Candles (tapers or votives) are my go-tos, but you can also add lanterns, hurricanes or fairy lights to your tablescape. If you have sconces or overhead lighting, dim the lights to create a warm glow that feels cozy and inviting.
PRO TIP: Use unscented candles on your tablescapes to avoid competing with food aromas.
6. ADD PERSONAL & SEASONAL TOUCHES
Small details go a long way. Place cards, sprigs of greenery, colored florals, vintage treasures, napkin rings and ribbon add personality while also making your dining table (and guests) feel special.
7. MIX USED + VINTAGE + NATURAL ELEMENTS WITH NEW
You don’t need to buy everything new each season. Combine favorite plates or vintage flatware with a few new accent pieces and seasonal greenery for a thoughtfully curated design. Foraged twigs, branches, leaves, pinecones or even dehydrated fruit and dried florals can bring your tablescapes to life. The important thing is to use items that feel connected to your theme or to the Fall, Winter or holiday you're celebrating.
Holiday-Themed Tablescape Examples
Now that you know the principles, here’s some examples of how to tailor them for the big four fall and winter holidays.
HALLOWEEN TABLESCAPE
Theme: Halloween, spooky, but fun
Color Scheme: Black, white, neutrals
Textiles: Layered tablecloths
Centerpiece: Zombie arms candlesticks
Lighting: Candles, candles and more candles
Personal or Seasonal Touches: pumpkins, crow (while the witch art and skeleton are not on the table, they are significant additions that 'make' the room).
Used, Vintage or Natural: vintage books, wreath
THANKSGIVING TABLESCAPE
Theme: Thanksgiving, farmhouse, cozy, comforting
Color Scheme: White, brown and gold with red accent
Textiles: Tablecloth, woven charger and napkins
Centerpiece: Fall foliage in a vase
Lighting: A mix of taper candles and votives
Personal or Seasonal Touches: Foliage, Fall color palette
Used, Vintage or Natural: Foliage, butter dish
CHRISTMAS TABLESCAPE
Theme: Christmas, elevated, friendly, traditional
Color Scheme: Red, green, white, gold
Textiles: Tablecloth
Centerpiece: Garland, taper candles and gold tree decor
Lighting: A mix of taper candles and votives
Personal or Seasonal Touches: Menu cards, Christmas bulbs, color palette
Used, Vintage or Natural: Eucalyptus garland
NEW YEAR'S TABLESCAPE
Theme: New Year's Eve, fun and fancy
Color Scheme: Black, white, silver and gold
Textiles: Tablecloth, table runner, napkins
Centerpiece: Table runner with many candles
Lighting: A mix of taper candles and tealights
Personal or Seasonal Touches: Mini champagne bottles, clock decor, festive hats and horns, name cards, color palette
Used, Vintage or Natural: Uncertain - perhaps the candlesticks
Final Thoughts
A themed tablescape is more than decor: it’s an invitation to sit down and connect. By picking a color story, layering in textures and adding thoughtful details, you can create a table that’s not only beautiful, but also leaves a lasting impression. Whether it’s spooky Halloween fun, a cozy Thanksgiving gathering, a sparkly Christmas dinner or New Year's celebration, these ideas will help you set the scene for an unforgettable holiday season.
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Until next time, happy decorating!
Certified Interior Decorator | Virtual Interior Designer
Orangetree Interiors
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