December, month of mist, magic and merriment is here and with it come some of the year’s finest celebrations: the official start of winter, the solstice, and of course all the Christmas and New Year celebrations too. Gathering with people you love at any time of year is balm for the soul, but it feels especially necessary in winter, when the darkness hugs tightly and sometimes menacingly, and our desire to hibernate is strongest. One of my favourite things about December are the gatherings and opportunities to eat copious amounts of food with people I love. I grew up in a family that had lots of parties and dinners and as an adult it's been something I've replicated, and loved. I've also nailed simple entertaining at home over the years, after many many a misadventure, and am looking forward to entertaining simply this Christmas; a Solstice dinner, a couple of Christmas breakfasts (favourite!) and a vegan roast on the big day. Christmas will be much smaller than usual this year, but I am still intending to create magical tables for us.

A simple but gorgeous Christmas table...

I have taken successive steps over the last few years to simplify Christmas and this year is obviously no different. No presents at all for the adults means I have more time and energy for the fun stuff like making and faffing and yes, laying pretty tables (something that happens to bring me great joy, which is so important this year more than ever). You don't need to cook really fancy food this Christmas to make it magical (Hello Christmas breakfast!), nor do you need formal silver wear, gazillions of courses and the 'right' wine glasses either. 

But if you do want to go all out and make it super special for you and your loved ones (even if there are only 2 of you this year) to enjoy, then some inspiration is below!

Take the stress out of cooking by cooking something simple but hearty (a favourite stew with slabs of bread and butter), or go for something simple like a Christmas breakfast, brunch or buffet. Decorate simply with lots of foliage and candlelight. All of this ensures you have time to truly relax and enjoy the warmth of people you love in your home, even if it’s s table for 2.

Think layers, height, life and light...

Create layers

Use beautiful textured place mats, charger plates or a simple paper shape under your main plate to give your table that luxurious, layered feel. Napkins, smaller plates, a piece of seasonal fruit or a single stem of flowers on each plate will add to the effect.

Add height

Height is another wonderful way to add drama to a table. Just be careful not to obscure lines of sight between guests (there's nothing worse than not being able to see people properly!) Add height with overhead arrangements, tall candles and slim glasses rather than a large floral arrangement that obscures your view.

A simple colour palette

Choose two to three main colours for your palette to keep things feeling unified. Of course, you can experiment with using lots of different colours, but sticking to a base of two to three colours in the linens, flowers and stationery lends a visual coherence and brings the dinner together.

Texture

Bring in sumptuous textures in the table cloth, napkins and seating. Think about how texture contrasts, too - ceramics pair beautifully with soft cotton or linen while dried or fresh flowers and sheepskins will bring extra interest to a flat surface.

All of the senses

For a dinner to feel really well rounded, consider each of the senses. A visual and taste sensation is obviously important, but it's also good to make sure your room is the right temperature and seating is cosy and comfortable – try adding sheepskins or soft blankets. Light incense or scented candles a little distance from the main table area and put on a thoughtful playlist (you could ask guests for their favourite festive songs beforehand).

I hope you enjoy it and remember, we can still have a beautiful Christmas this year! x