Colourful Christmas Table Styling Ideas for a Joyful Family Celebration
Updated for 2026
Hello my loves and welcome back.
There is something so special about gathering around the table at Christmas, don’t you think? Long before the presents are opened or the pudding is served, the table becomes the heart of the celebration. It's where stories are shared, glasses are raised and crackers are pulled- and where precious memories are made.
Whilst I love decorating the tree with the mismatched treasures my children have created over the years, the Christmas table is where I get to be a little more creative. I love layering colour, texture, candlelight and seasonal foliage to create a space that feels warm, welcoming and full of joy.
Whether you prefer a traditional Christmas look or something a little more colourful, these simple Christmas table styling ideas will help you create a festive tablescape your guests won't forget.
Use the following tips to dress your own table this year.
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Start with a Beautiful Foundation
Starting with a plain table cloth as your foundation, choose a festive table runner which compliments your surrounding decor. For us we have gorgeous Farrow and ball Stiffly blue on the walls, which is a deep navy. Teamed with carriage grey and pale pink, these colours lend themselves beautifully to the pink, sage and red found in our Christmas poinsettia table runner.
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Bring Nature to the Table
Decorations for your Christmas table is the most fun part. You have an opportunity to be really creative here and use winter foliage and flowers, sticks, berries, holly etc. Add some candles for mood lighting or some winter pot pourri with cinnamon sticks, orange slices and dried cranberries for a delightful scent.
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Layer Texture and Warmth
Place mats are used not only to add texture or complimentary/contrasting colour but also to prevent drips, spills and most importantly heat from reaching the wooden table beneath. I used some hyacinth round placemats to be in keeping with nature and also break up the colours. Charger plates traditionally are used for fine dining but hey- they look pretty too right? Gold scalloped edges act as a frame and add a touch of glam to the table.
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Choose Tableware That Tells a Story
This is such a personal choice. Tablescaping is very much about the aesthetic of the table, choosing tableware that is in keeping with your scheme but if you don't want to spend a fortune, you can use crockery that you already have and bring the table together with your finishing touches. For our table we have pulled accent colours out- here sage green, which compliments the charger plate, hyacinth and pine tree style garland.
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Add the Finishing Touches
To finish off your table, choose your favourite napkins. Our Christmas poinsettia napkins are traditional, whilst adding colour and fun. Don't forget a napkin ring or make your own with foliage and twine.
If you dress your table this Christmas and use any of these tips, make sure you tag us @mayajoydesign in your photos on Instagram.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas. May you eat well, be merry and have a stunning dining table this Christmas.
lots of love
Maya x
Why the Christmas Table Matters
For me, Christmas has never been about creating a perfect home. It's about creating a welcoming one.
Some of my favourite Christmas memories involve the children covered in chocolate, too many people squeezed around the table and laughter that carried on long after dinner was over.
A beautifully dressed table isn't about impressing your guests. It's about creating a space where people feel comfortable enough to linger a little longer, share another story and make memories together.
Sometimes the simplest details, like a candle, a sprig of rosemary, or a handwritten place card become the things we remember most.
FAQ’s
How do I decorate a Christmas table on a budget?
Use foliage from the garden, candles, dried orange slices and tableware you already own. A few thoughtful details can make a table feel festive without spending a fortune.
What colours work well for a Christmas table?
Traditional reds and greens are always popular, but blue, pink, sage green and gold can create a colourful and modern Christmas tablescape, like our Nostalgia print here
What should I put in the centre of a Christmas table?
Candles, winter foliage, pine cones, berries, dried citrus slices and seasonal flowers all make beautiful Christmas table centrepieces.
How far in advance should I plan my Christmas table?
Planning your Christmas table decor a few weeks in advance allows time to gather decorations, prepare place settings and enjoy the festive season with less stress.