The holiday season is a time when we gather with everyone we love around the table, and one of the best ways to set the mood is with a joyful Holiday tablescape. A tablescape is more than just a place to gobble the turkey! It’s about creating a festive, welcoming atmosphere that reflects your personal style and sets the tone for your get togethers.
As a (top-notch!) custom framing company, we know that tabletop frames can be a lesser thought of component to your tabletop decor, but they add a personal and creative touch to your holiday spread. Let’s explore how to create a stylish holiday tablescape and how incorporating tabletop frames can bring it to the next level. From choosing the right color palette to adding personalized framed touches, here are 7 tips on how to make your table the best it can be!
1. Choose a Festive Color Palette
The first step to designing a beautiful holiday tablescape is selecting a color palette that feels festive and personal to you. For a classic holiday look, consider traditional colors like red, green, and gold. If you prefer something more modern, opt for neutral tones like white, silver, and cream, with pops of metallic accents. For those who want a cozy and warm look, earth tones combined with deep burgundy or forest green can create a rustic yet elegant feel.
Holiday Tablescape Color Palette Ideas
Once you’ve decided on your color scheme, let it guide the rest of your decor choices, from the tablecloth and napkins to the centerpieces and dishware. Make it your own!
2. Add Layers with Textures and Fabrics
A great tablescape is all about layering textures to add depth and visual interest. Start with a tablecloth or runner as your base, then layer in placemats, napkins, and even chair covers that complement your theme. Choose fabrics that feel cozy and inviting, such as velvet, linen, or even faux fur for a winter wonderland aesthetic.
To enhance the holiday spirit, consider adding small touches of greenery like faux sprigs of pine or eucalyptus. These natural elements not only add texture but also bring a natural element to your table.
3. Incorporate Tabletop Frames for a Personal Touch
Now, let’s talk about one of our favorite ways to add personality to your holiday tablescape—custom tabletop frames! Tabletop frames are a great way to introduce personal and creative elements into your holiday decor. Here are a few ideas on how to use them:
- Personalized Place Cards: Instead of using traditional paper place cards, frame the names of your guests in small, custom-made frames. You can choose a frame that matches your overall theme and design it with a festive background, creating a chic and elegant way to direct your guests to their seats.
- Framed Family Photos: Display your cherished (or awkward!) holiday memories by framing family photos and dispersing them around your table. This not only adds a personal touch but also becomes a great conversation starter. Choose festive frames that complement your table decor or go for a mix-and-match look to add character.
- Menu or Special Quotes: Frame your holiday dinner menu, Aunt Maude’s famous fruit cake recipe, or festive quotes to set the mood for the evening. You can even create custom prints in Canva to add a fun holiday saying like “Eat, drink, and be merry!” Framing them in tabletop frames (we suggest a 5″ X 5″ size) makes them feel more polished.
For a farmhouse-style tabletop, be sure to check out our Rustic Picture Frame Collection.
For a vintage-inspired Holiday Tablescape, consider our Ornate Picture Frames.
The Frame It Easy EaselMate
Let us introduce you to our EaselMate™. This acts as an easel for any of our Wood or Metal picture frame styles up to 13″ x 19″. It is easy to install taking only seconds and adjusts to any angle that you want it to, making it perfect for any tabletop display! Our EaselMate™ makes it so easy to stand up frames and create beautiful displays on your table, counter, or shelves. Head to our Accessories page to add that baby to your cart!
4. Create a Stunning Centerpiece
A holiday table is not complete without a show-stopping centerpiece. Your centerpiece should be the focal point of your table, drawing the eye and setting the overall tone. For a more traditional holiday look, consider using a combination of candles, garlands, and ornaments. You can also use flowers such as classic poinsettias, roses, or hydrangeas for a festive touch.
Free Downloads – Holiday Art Prints
If you want to add a unique element, consider incorporating framed holiday prints or framed quotes as part of your centerpiece. For example, you could frame a small holiday-themed print or message and place it among the candles or greenery for a creative, layered look.
5. Add Lighting for a Warm Glow
Lighting is a key element in setting the mood for your holiday table. The soft glow of candles can create a warm and intimate atmosphere, perfect for holiday gatherings. If you have a chandelier or overhead lighting above your table, consider adding holiday-themed decor such as garlands or ornaments to keep that festive feel flowin’.
For an extra magical touch, place some stringed fairy lights along the table or use battery-operated LED lights tucked into your centerpiece. The soft twinkling lights will add an elegant and cozy glow to your tablescape. The light will reflect off of all the other beautiful components of your tablescape.
6. Frame Holiday Artwork on Your Buffet or Side Table
If you have a buffet or side table near your dining area, this is a great opportunity to extend your holiday tablescape theme. Use custom frames to display holiday artwork, seasonal prints, or even handwritten holiday messages on these side surfaces. You could frame a beautiful winter scene, a festive holiday quote, or even a piece of your children’s holiday artwork. By tying in the frames with your overall theme, you create a cohesive look that pulls the whole room together.
7. Don’t Forget the Little Details
The finishing touches are what truly make your holiday tablescape stand out. Consider adding small, thoughtful details that align with your theme, such as festive napkin rings, mini ornaments, or pinecones from your yard. You can even frame a small holiday greeting card or thank you note for each guest and place it at their seat for an extra personal touch.
Custom Frames as Holiday Gifts
Be the hostess with the mostest! Custom tabletop frames can also double as thoughtful gifts for your guests. After the meal, surprise your guests by letting them take home their personalized frame with a photo or a framed quote from the evening. It’s a lovely way to spread holiday cheer and provide them with a memorable keepsake.
Final Thoughts on Your Holiday Tablescape
Creating a beautiful holiday tablescape is all about combining festive decor with personal touches, and tabletop frames are a wonderful way to add style and meaning to your holiday spread. Whether you’re framing place cards, displaying family photos, or creating a unique centerpiece, custom frames can elevate your holiday table decor and make it truly unforgettable this holiday season!
