Ideas + Advice

Holidays

How to Style Christmas Coffee Table Decorations

Setting the scene for the holidays is just as much fun as the holidays themselves. With cards to be mailed, gifts to be wrapped, plans to be made and sweets to be baked, this season contains cheer and goodwill in every moment. Of course, there’s also the decorations: from reindeer and snowmen to trees and mistletoe, there are about a million and a half ways to incorporate a festive atmosphere. Before you tackle the entire house, though, we suggest focusing on one thing at a time; one table, one bed, one corner. Here, we’re getting micro – with an easy-as-pecan-pie tutorial on how to decorate a coffee table for Christmas (plus sofa table tips thrown in for good measure).
The Christmas Coffee Table
  1. Begin With a Tray: Whether for the holidays or other time of year, the coffee table tray is the decorator’s holy grail. Use it as a painter would use a canvas: as a jumping off point for the main feature.
  2. Add the Main Feature: This is the decor piece that catches the eye right away. It’s what will get the “ooh”s and “ahh”s out of your guests – it’s usually the most colorful thing on the table. (Here, we went with bold golden reindeer.)
  3. Anchor With a Centerpiece: To ground a Christmas coffee table, the main feature needs a centerpiece, something large yet not overpowering. Make this centerpiece a neutral hue, like the white-speckled candles shown here.
  4. Finish With a Festive Touch: Finish the Christmas aesthetic with a festive detail that adds to the seasonal feel. Pinecones are great for this purpose; also try sprigs of garland or holly.
christmas sofa table
The Christmas Sofa Table
  1. Anchor With a Large Scale Feature: These tables are long and narrow, so you’ll want something to unite the Christmas decorations you’ll be adding in the second step. We recommend garland or a festive runner along the length.
  2. Finish by Adding Varying Heights: Sofa tables are also taller than coffee tables, which means the main feature should be bigger. Balance out each end of the table by incorporating a “set of two” decor piece, be it a set of candle holders, vases or star figurines.
Christmas Nesting Coffee Tables
  1. Begin With a Tray: In a nesting set, no need for two trays. Just one, on one table, is enough; use the other table for the main feature.
  2. Add the Main Feature: The taller of the two tables should be devoted for the main feature. Since nesting tables are smaller than regular coffee tables, opt for a smaller main feature. Simple, neutral Christmas trees will do the trick.
  3. Finish With a Festive Touch: Add festive details that are even smaller than the main feature. Place these on the tray; mini figurines or even a nativity set cast a Christmas spell in the living room.

— More Great Articles —

Read the Latest

Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.