Christmas Dining Room

Table settings and centrepieces for Christmas dining

Start with a centrepiece, whether that's a low arrangement of foliage and candles or a taller display that still leaves guests able to see each other across the table. A Christmas cracker at each place setting doubles as table decor and an interactive start to the meal. Check any candles or lit decorations are clear of napkins, runners and reaching arms before guests sit down.

Pair your table styling with our Christmas dinnerware for the full setting.

Seasonal touches for the dining room walls and sideboard

Extend the Christmas look beyond the table with a wreath or garland on the sideboard, wall or window frame, so that the rest of the dining room feels equally considered. Layer a garland with fairy lights along the sideboard or shelf if you want a soft glow without changing the overhead lighting. Framed art, a seasonal runner, or a small collection of ornaments displayed together all add Christmas cheer without competing with the table setting. Keep wall and sideboard decorations lower-key than the table itself to ensure the dining table is the focal point.

Browse our Christmas wreaths and garlands for the sideboard and walls.

Seating and table space for larger Christmas gatherings

Plan your seating before the day itself if you're hosting a bigger gathering than the table's designed for to avoid a last-minute scramble for extra chairs once guests arrive. Borrow chairs or set up a side table where needed, and prioritise leaving enough space between place settings for guests to use cutlery comfortably.

Free up table space for place settings alone by moving sides and desserts to a buffet-style sideboard setup instead, which also keeps you from ferrying extra dishes back and forth during the meal. Sorting the seating plan ahead of time means you can focus on hosting rather than logistics once guests are through the door.

Round out the room with our Christmas decorations.

Frequently asked questions

How much table space does each place setting need for Christmas lunch?

Each place setting generally needs around 60cm of table width to fit a plate, cutlery and a glass comfortably. Add extra space if you're including a bread plate or additional glassware.

What's a low-maintenance Christmas centrepiece option?

A bowl of baubles, pinecones or seasonal fruit makes an easy centrepiece that doesn't need watering or ongoing care. Battery-operated candles are a simpler alternative to real candles if you want a lit centrepiece without supervision.

How far in advance should the Christmas table be set?

Many households set the table the night before or the morning of Christmas lunch, once other preparation is out of the way. Setting it earlier frees up time on the day itself for cooking and hosting.

Can a dining room be styled for Christmas without changing the furniture?

Yes, most Christmas dining room styling relies on table linen, a centrepiece and wall or sideboard decorations rather than new furniture. This makes it easy to update the look each year without buying new pieces.