How to Tablescape This Festive Season
Dining styling tips from interior designer Nina Campbell and chef Sarah Manning-Ball
In recent years, the trend of creatively dressing your table for guests, or ‘tablescaping’, has soared in popularity. We all love a well-presented meal, and certainly, a meal tastes better when it’s presented on nice crockery.
For those of you looking to dust off your hosting hats in time for the festive season, interior designer Nina Campbell OBE, in partnership with NEXT, shares her top tips with us for an elevated dining experience this winter, as well as things to consider when designing your table setting.
Also, Nina’s collection with NEXT offers great options for tablescaping, she’s shared some of her top picks below.
Pictured: Nina Campbell Leaf Shaped Platter, £20
Pictured: Nina Campbell Woven Placemat (two-pack), £16
Pictured: Nina Campbell Set of 4 Meadow Wine Glasses, £30
Pictured: Nina Campbell Set of 4 Meadow Champagne Flute Glasses, £30
Nina’s advice for tablescaping;
1. Mix and match
“Clashing colours by alternating two sets of crockery in different colours is a very simple but effective trick for an eye-catching table. Just try to keep a consistent colour theme to bring it all together!”
2. Think about the backdrop
“If you want to add more colour, you can use a tablecloth as a backdrop to your tablescape, otherwise you can leave it bare for a more relaxed look. Napkins always add a sense of occasion and napkin rings are a great way to add some personality to your table. Otherwise, a pretty ribbon and a freshly picked flower from the garden looks simple but oh-so pretty.”
3. Shop your cupboards
“You’ll be amazed at what you can find in your own home to add something unique to your table, so that no occasion ever feels the same.
“I like to collect fun salt and pepper shakers which can act as an ornament on the table. Vintage glass ice buckets filled with blooms down the table are also a great way to add something a little different!”
4. Colourful glassware
“Glassware is a great way to add a touch of indulgence without the hefty price tag.
Incorporating colour through your glasses is a really fun way to add interest to the tablescape and even if you’re only going to fill the glasses with water, glassware like this instantly adds height and a sense of occasion.”
5. Set the mood
“A well-designed tablescape can instantly elevate the mood of a dinner party. It sets the tone, creates ambiance, acts as a conversation starter and allows you to put your personal touch on your event. Not being a natural cook, I use the table to wow my guests!
“A beautifully set table also immediately captures the attention of your guests as you welcome them into your home. It shows that effort and thought have been put into the event, making guests feel special and valued.”
But not only does a beautifully set table look aesthetically pleasing, chef and owner of Glorious Grazes & Posh Picnics, Sarah Manning-Ball, says that crockery and presentation is a key part of enjoying the food itself:
“I believe a well-presented plate of food on quality crockery really can impact the sensory experience, and ultimately enjoyment of the meal. It sets expectations for the taste and quality, stimulates positive emotions and creates a multi-sensory experience, making it more immersive and enjoyable.
“When plating I choose crockery that compliments the food. My approach is counter-intuitive. If my food is simple I will choose simple, plain crockery. There is nothing more beautiful in my opinion than a simple poach salmon fillet with asparagus served on a white plate. The simple elegance of the dish is echoed by crockery.
“Similarly, if I am serving a vibrant salad, I use equally vibrant crockery. It doesn’t matter if the colours clash, it adds to the vibrancy. Crockery can really set the tone of a meal.”
For those who want to elevate their table settings ready for festive socialising, the rest of the Nina Campbell range, available exclusively at NEXT, can be viewed online and in selected NEXT stores. The collection offers timeless pieces which are truly reflective of Nina’s iconic British style and have been carefully curated to add a touch of luxury to your home.