So it’s that time of year again; the nights are drawing ever inward and nature is slowly falling asleep. As we head towards the ever-decreasing temperatures as the landscape is covered by winter’s frosty gown, we turn our attention to making our homes as cosy as possible, and planning how to add that extra cheer and glamour to our festive dining experience.
Today we are sharing some photos captured in customer Sarah’s country cottage home based in Somerset. She has chosen a selection of Za Za items to create a snug winter table setting that can’t help but invite you in! It is lovely to make dinner time more eventful during these colder and shorter evenings, and there are some great ideas here that can also make your Christmas table setting more special! (More details about the individual items can be found at the end of this blog).
When it comes to your dining table you can easily add character with decorative placemats, try mixing different textures such as natural wood and wicker. When guests are invited, why not match with handmade place names to add that personal touch? Complete the look with an array of coasters, whether they be matching and comformative, or different in style and ‘rogue’, with each having a personality of their own. Set everything off by adding a decorative linen tablecloth and stylish napkins to soften the decor.
It’s important to remember how you are planning on serving your festive feasts. Serving boards are an excellent way to add that extra dimension of height and depth, whether it be a stylish wooden cheeseboard, or an elegant marble serving platter. Serve your guests in style with Christmas canapes or tapas in individual bowls so that everyone gets a fair share, and makes transporting your feasts that much easier.
Candlelight on a table spread is something that should never be overlooked! Use height as a space saver to allow more food and drink on the table, as well as casting a lovely ambient glow onto your surroundings. To liven the festive atmosphere, make the most of every available surface to add a warm and inviting glow; from tealights on the mantelpiece to large lanterns decorating the available floor space. Optimise your space wherever possible!
Of course you don’t have to use real candles if you have young hands or furry paws around the house. Battery powered lights and candles can be a go-to alternative, and of course you don’t have to clean up any wax! No need to keep replacing the candles either, as all you’ll need are new batteries once in a while…
There is nothing more spectacular than a festive table centrepiece. For those who have a knack for gardening or floristry then using natural greenery from the garden is an excellent way to add that extra dimension and colours to your dining experience. Alternatively, you can also use faux plants and flowers that have the added bonus of not wilting and can last all year round. Foliage doesn’t have to be confined to the table however, as it can be used all around the home. Create garlands along your mantlepiece or have vases of festive flowers on shelves and dressers. Holly, mistletoe and evergreens are all good options; just remember to keep them away from any naked flames!
Most importantly, the dining table needs some delicious food to turn the beautiful setting into an occasion! We love festive food, so we’ve compiled a few of our favourite recipes from local businesses and BBC Good Food to get you inspired for the festive season. Darts Farm has a great addition to your Christmas Dinner experience (CLICK HERE), whilst BBC Good Food has inspiration for a divine Christmas Cake that you are sure to love (CLICK HERE)!
Featured items list: (give them a click below to read about them)
