The Perfect Festive Table: A How to Guide

[ The Tablecloth ]

A beautiful tablecloth is a must-have and always where we start first. It’s the most important part of the table setting, so we advise choosing something that will make you and your guests want to sit at the table and talk together for hours. At Summerill & Bishop, each of our tablecloths is designed to be its own work of art. We always say that if we wouldn’t hang the design on the wall as a piece of art, we wouldn’t use it to set the table with. Our range of linens is varied enough for you to pick your very own capsule table collection to match your style – from cool and contemporary to timeless, sophisticated festive charm.

For a timeless and quintessential look: Start with a table linen that has masses of white about its design with a touch of berry, burgundy or red, or go for mistletoe green for a nod to classic holiday styling. These colour combinations provide a nostalgic nod to a magical winter’s day and feel instantly inviting – think Mistletoe Kiss, Garland, Red Stripe or Christmas Ornaments. You could also mix and match different table linens and napkins by layering them together to create a unique look.

For a touch of drama: Opt for unique hand-painted linens in deep, regal hues – think Midnight Blue, Gold or Claret Red. To make the look feel elegant, scatter pops of metallics, golds and silvers for an additional layer of texture, and add height with tall church candles and candelabras. As the adage goes, it’s the little things that make all the difference.

For a modern twist: Incorporate unexpected elements like pastels and colourful accents. A soft palette of blush pink, mint green and champagne gold creates a chic, contemporary festive look that transitions seamlessly into other seasons and occasions.

[ The Napkins ]

Napkins add another layer of creativity and beauty to your table, and they are the piece of tableware your guests interact with most – so beautiful napkins are the perfect opportunity to impress!

Complete the Look: Each Summerill & Bishop tablecloth has a matching napkin to pair it with. Complete the S&B look by adding napkins that match the design of your tablecloth, as with our Mistletoe Kiss, Garland and Christmas Ornaments napkins.

Mix and Match: Create different combinations by mixing and matching napkin designs. For instance, the S&B Green Stripe tablecloth pairs wonderfully with the S&B Red Stripe napkins. The main thing is to have fun with it and make it personal to you – it’s your table, your mealtime and your loved ones.

[ The Napkin Rings ]

Napkin rings are the finishing touch that ties every place setting together. Whether you choose glass, ceramic, woven or metal – or a mix of all four – they frame each napkin and add a little sparkle to the table.

Mix the Materials: Pair our gold-glazed porcelain rings with handwoven gold straw laurel or handblown glass roses for a layered, collected look.

Add a Little Wit: A playful piece, like our Hotlips napkin ring made with Solange Azagury-Partridge, is a guaranteed conversation starter.

[ The Dinnerware ]

Consider the colour palette of your table setting and choose striking sets to make your dinnerware stand out. For instance, consider star-shaped plates for a fun, festive and special look, or choose gold-rimmed plates to suit classic holiday styling.

Consider the Occasion: Choose formal pieces for an elegant dinner and playful designs for a casual brunch.

Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to combine different sets to create a unique look – openwork lace porcelain, scalloped edges and simple gold rims all sit beautifully together.

[ The Glassware ]

Glassware is an essential part of your table design – otherwise, how would you make a toast? Opt for smooth, crystal-clear glasses to show off the colour and effervescence of your festive cocktails, and add pops of colour with coloured water tumblers.

Layer Your Glasses: Use different designs and heights to layer your table setting.

Planning Ahead: Ensure you have enough glassware for each course, including water glasses and additional wine glasses and champagne coupes – after all, we are celebrating.

Functional and Stylish: Choose glasses that are not only beautiful but also practical for your planned drinks menu. If you’re celebrating somewhere sunny or al fresco, you may want to opt for a heavier option like our faceted glassware, to ensure it doesn’t get blown off your table.

[ The Serveware ]

The right serveware can make a significant impact on your table setting. Choose statement pieces – cake stands, pitchers and platters – that are both functional and stylish to enhance the dining experience.

Layer the Heights: Use platters and stands of different heights to add dimension to your tablescape. This will keep your arrangement from looking ‘flat’.

Mix and Match: There are no rules for choosing your serveware. Get creative and allow yourself to explore different combinations of styles.

[ The Cutlery ]

Your personality can also shine through your cutlery selection. Whether you prefer a classic look with our Grecian set, or want to add a touch of colour with green resin or faux rose quartz handles, Summerill & Bishop has a variety of cutlery designs to help you find the perfect one for your table.

Planning Ahead: Set aside some time to polish your silver before the party. You’ll thank yourself later – no last-minute scrambling to shine dozens of cutlery sets!

[ Candles and Candlesticks ]

Illuminate your table with candles and candlesticks. Their gentle light creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the sense of togetherness and celebration around your table.

The Scent: Choose a variety of candles that create a balanced and festive scent.

Layer the Heights: Consider having a variety of short and tall candlesticks to create different types of lighting. This will also help you create a sense of depth on the table.

[ Flowers and Foliage ]

Flowers and foliage bring a touch of nature indoors, filling spaces with their fresh scents and vibrant colours, and creating a warm, festive atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings. We suggest adding beautiful flowers in bud vases that trail down the middle of the table – this way, your view of the person seated opposite you isn’t obstructed.

Perhaps you prefer a statement centrepiece bursting with traditional holiday greenery like evergreens and poinsettias, or a series of smaller bud vases with mistletoe scattered happily down the middle of the table.

Seasonal Blooms: Choose flowers that are in season to ensure they are fresh, vibrant and ideal for the occasion.

Mix and Match the Styles: Use a mix of large centrepieces and smaller vases for a dynamic look.

Add Herbs and Dried Fruits to Your Arrangements: Consider the menu you are serving and choose complementing herbs and fruits to bring your table to life via sight and scent.

Forage in Your Local Forest: Beautiful dried leaves from your local forest or park make thoughtful place cards. Use a gold pen to further elevate the look.

[ Personal Touches ]

Adding personal touches to your table setting can make your guests feel extra special. Consider handwritten place cards, crackers or custom menu cards – these small details create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making each guest feel uniquely welcomed.

Place Cards and Crackers: Help your guests find their seats with beautifully written place cards or crackers.

Custom Menu Cards: Handwrite your menu to add another touch of homemade charm. Your guests will appreciate the effort!

[ Souviens-toi de Vivre ]

This is the most magical time of the year, and while the table should be beautiful, it’s not necessarily about a big, stylised event, but rather about focusing on the moment and creating special holiday memories. The table is about coming together and connection – it’s where life and all its big decisions and conversations happen.

So put your favourite playlist on, stay close to your loved ones, and remember to live and indulge in the moment. These are the memories that will remain in your friends’ and family’s minds forever.

Happy Holidays! S&B x