How to set the holiday table

From upcycled glass serveware, printed porcelain and embroidered linen, the party table has had some interesting additions this year

It is that time of the year when holiday party invitations are sent out and you file RSVPs on your phone calendar. Whether you are hosting a casual brunch or a formal dinner, make sure your guests eat with their eyes first. Well-organised, aesthetically pleasing and functional table decor goes a long way in setting the tone for a party. From a mix of classy crockery in eclectic combinations and rustic or vintage table linen to inventive glassware and centrepieces, we have created a guide wherein table stylists and brands share their favourite way to set an inviting table. 

The centrepiece on a holiday table immediately draws attention, and it does not have to be limited to elaborate candelabra. Mumbai-based Pooja Sugla, who designs tables across seasons, has a simple rule of thumb with floral and edible elements — “Definitely a mix. A bit of cinnamon, fresh oranges on skewers, some eucalyptus leaves along with a few candles to add warmth. A subtle ornament as a place card or a napkin tie brings the quirk to the table,” she says. Good lighting too goes a long way to set the mood, whether it is a breezy outdoor setting or a well-lit table at night. Glassware often occupies a place of pride at the table as well. Think elegant cocktails, or a pitcher of water infused with slices of citrus.

Pallavi Chandra, principal designer and founder of New Delhi-based Glass Forest, that creates handblown glassware, recommends both clear and coloured glassware for a host of beverages. “We have a Firdaus jug and decanter or Iris carafe that have a larger capacity, and are great for mocktails or cocktails. The Juliette range makes for colourful, happy tables with its jewel tones. Stemless glassware is also versatile for hot chocolate or mulled wine. Desserts look great in glassware too.” While the brand brings classic lines and handcrafted details, Noida-based Kavi the Poetry-Art Project upcycles glass bottles to create tableware and glasses that are statement pieces.

Its founder, Madhuri Balodi says they fly off the shelves as holiday gifts too. “Our platters as well as tall glasses are popular this season and we get custom orders where families send us their used spirit bottles to create a range of glassware for them,” she adds. 

For Aditi Murarka Agrawal, co-founder of Kolkata -based home decor brand Nestasia, holidays are a time centred around family, festivities and food. “For 2022, we created festive decor, dining and gift collections that cater to both minimal and maximal aesthetics.”

The Ombré Collection, for instance, boasts of warm jewel tones in red-white and green-white gradients, and the brand has a mix of shapes and patterns to choose from.  If you are looking to work with an existing collection by adding a few statement pieces to the table, Nicobar has products that pair well with a cornucopia of cutlery and crockery. The brand’s recently-launched Lumi collection featuring crockery and decor pieces, showcases shades of deep maroon with equestrian flair.  “I love a beautifully orchestrated plate of food with a classic drink or a soup on the side, where each element sings in complete harmony with the other. This holiday season, I am coveting our very giftable Sangria set, the Holidaze soup mug, and the classic ivory dinner set,” says Rajiv Purohit, co-creative director, Nicobar. 

Once done with the decor, when you are deciding courses for a holiday menu, appetisers and desserts call for their own range of serveware, with wood and marble offering a perfect canvas to show off gastronomic delights. “Serveware with detailing work best. A wood base and marble top, or a marble platter with wooden handle,” explains Mumbai-based interior stylist Meenakshi Kapoor.