Three Easy Winter Holiday Tablescapes

There’s something magical about the way a holiday table sets the tone for the entire season. It’s where stories unfold, recipes are passed down, and loved ones gather a little closer. This year, I’m sharing three festive tablescapes—each with its own personality—to help you create a setting that feels special, intentional, and beautifully “you.”

Whether you're drawn to woodland warmth, shimmering elegance, or timeless tradition, these looks will spark ideas you can bring to life at home.

How to Build a Layered Holiday Tablescape

No matter the theme, the secret to a memorable tablescape is layering—color, pattern, and texture working together to create depth and visual interest. Here’s an easy way to think about it:

1. Start With Your Foundation

Your tablecloth or runner sets the tone.

• Choose a patterned linen when you want the table itself to feel like part of the story.

• Choose solid or subtly textured linens when you want your dinnerware and décor to shine.Think of this base as your canvas.

  
  

2. Add Height and Dimension

Layering doesn’t just happen side-to-side—it also happens top-to-bottom.

• Chargers anchor each place setting.

• Dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls stack to add height.

• Napkins folded thoughtfully or tied with ribbon add softness and personality.

  
  

3. Mix Textures to Add Warmth

A table feels flat when everything is the same finish. Even subtle changes make a difference:

• Matte ceramics next to shiny glassware

• Natural woven pieces against polished metals

• Fresh greenery paired with smooth candleholders

Texture is what makes a table feel collected, not staged.

4. Play With Color Intentionally

Choose one dominant color, one supporting color, and one accent.

• Dominant = your linens or greenery

• Supporting = plates, napkins, or glassware

• Accent = candles, decorative objects, or ribbonThis keeps things cohesive without feeling matchy-matchy.

  
  

5. Finish With Personality

This is where your theme comes alive—whimsical woodland creatures, frosted branches, velvet bows, berries, ornaments, or candles in all shapes and sizes. These finishing touches tell the story.

Three Festive Tablescapes

Since we all have a lot to do during the busy holiday season, we've curated three "done for you" tablescapes, all with products available at Jennifer Janeway Home!

1. Woodland Gathering

A cozy, nature-inspired table with acorn charm and oak-leaf warmth.

If you’re craving a holiday look that feels grounded, warm, and welcoming, "Woodland Gathering" is your go-to. This tablescape embraces the beauty of the forest floor with acorn motifs, oak-leaf linens, and natural textures that bring an organic, lived-in charm to the table.

Key elements to include:

• Oak leaf & acorn table linens as the visual anchor

• Matte stoneware or pottery with an artisanal feel

• Woven placemats or wooden chargers

• Amber or smoky glassware for a fireside glow

• Pinecones, greenery, and natural accents running through the center

  
  

This look feels like a quiet walk through the woods—simple, textured, and inviting.

2. Glittering Forest

An elegant, enchanted woodland brought to life.

For the host who loves a bit of shimmer without overwhelming the space, “Glittering Forest” blends natural elements with glowing accents - think elegant woodland glamour.

How to bring it to life:

• Faux frosted or metallic forest branches down the center

• Delicate forest creatures—deer, foxes, mice—with a soft sheen

• Glass or silver candlesticks in mixed heights

• Plates with understated sparkle or metallic trim

• A palette of whites, silvers, champagne, and deep pine

  
  

This look is all about glow: shimmering branches, candlelight dancing on reflective surfaces, and tone-on-tone texture.

3. Traditional Christmas

The classic red-and-green story that never goes out of style.

For those who love timeless charm, this tablescape embraces the joy and nostalgia of the season with rich linens and accented greenery.

Essential pieces for this look:

• Classic red and green linens in fresh prints

• Crisp white layered dinnerware

• Bejeweled napkin rings elevate the look even more

• Gold flatware provides an unexpected texture

• Crystal or clear stemware for sparkle

  
  

This look promises cozy familiarity—the essence of Christmas gatherings.

Bringing It All Together

The best holiday tables feel layered, collected, and intentional. Mix old favorites with new finds, play with texture, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through the details. When you create a table that reflects your style, your guests will feel it the moment they sit down.

If you need help sourcing linens, candles, décor, or tabletop pieces, our Shop is stocked with beautiful options—we’d love to help you tell the story of your table this season!