Even thought it looks like Ryan and I may be the only ones sitting at our holiday table this year, I still think it’s important to make our spaces festive and happy.

I mentioned in my December Notes that I didn't want to go crazy buying new stuff this year. I wanted to try to work with what I had for our holiday decor. And with setting a table that may be more for looking at than functional, I wanted it to last through the new year. So I wrote down a few tips to keep in mind if you want to set your own neutral holiday table this year.

5 Tips to help set your table

No. 1 • It’s okay to mix gold and silver, but keep the rest of your color palette minimal by using whites and clear glassware. Where should you use your mixed metals? Pull items you already have like candle sticks, flatware, garlands, or other small tabletop accessories.

No. 2 • Make it last and layer dried florals + branches as your centerpiece. I pulled some pampas grass I had in a vase and simply laid it across the table and around our candlesticks.

No. 3 • Mix up your glassware at each table setting. Mixing and matching glasses can create an interesting and unexpected touch to your tabletop. Keep the glasses one color to ensure it stays cohesive.

No. 4 • To make it festive, add a small touch to each plate that says ‘holidays’. I had these bells that I used last year as a bowl filler. Think outside of the box. Other items you could use might be ornaments, mini bottlebrush trees, or fresh clippings from your tree.

No. 5 • Add a little lighting. Ok this one isn’t exactly on the table but it adds to the ambience around it. I love adding small twinkle lights on our countertop next to the table. You could add them to a credenza or strung in the corners of the room. It’s a quick addition that adds a lot!

Similar Picks To Get The Look

What we ended up with was something that doesn’t scream holiday but still feels fitting with the other holiday decor i’ve decorated with around the house. I could easily take away the bells and leave this up through January. Or until I get bored and am ready to re-style it!

Images by Kimi Domino Photo