6 Tips for Creating Elegant Christmas Table Settings in the Kitchen

In this post: Don’t have a dining room to entertain in? Here are 6 tips for creating elegant Christmas table settings when eating in the kitchen.⇒

My mother used to sleep in the dining room.

Well, not when she was an adult. And not in a room with a dining table.

But my grandparents lived in a one bedroom apartment. When you entered their home, you walked into a room that was supposed to be a dining room. While my mother was growing up, instead, it was her bedroom. By the time she was married and raising a family, my grandparents had gotten used to having no dining room, so it became a large entry foyer and holiday dinners were served in their teeny tiny kitchen.

I’m not sure I can accurately impress upon you just how tiny a room we’re talking about.

Even so, it always made an impression on me that my grandmother served these meals on the finest china.

Christmas Table Settings in the Kitchen

No matter how small your space is, your holiday dinners can be made quite special by treating them as the exceptional events that they are.

Sitting next to the kitchen appliances? No problem. Just make sure everything coordinates and use the very best that you can afford.

In our kitchen, I’ve set a lovely holiday table that plays off the sleek silver of our kitchen appliances. Read on for my 6 tips for styling elegant Christmas table settings in the kitchen.

1. Vintage floral china

You can set a lovely table with various types of dishes, but my favorite way to impart elegance is with a mix of vintage china patterns. I love to mix and match pieces that have similar colors and the same general aesthetic, as seen on this table where I’ve used 3 different china patterns.

2. Fine white table linens

I love table runners, placemats or bare tables, but for an elegant holiday, you can’t beat the look of a white linen tablecloth and embroidered napkins. If eating in the kitchen, this styling tip will go a long way toward elevating your space to feel more refined. Add a few white linen tea towels in the cooking area to mirror the linens on the table.

3. Crystal

If you’re going for an out of the ordinary look, crystal stemware is always a plus. If you serve in the kitchen often, crystal chandeliers will add an upscale note, as well. Just because it’s not the dining room, doesn’t mean it doesn’t merit crystal.

4. Pop of color

For a Christmas table, in addition to these first-class touches, a pop of color will keep things from getting too sedate. I used forest green glass bowls and rose napkin rings to add a jolt of holiday color. Garlands of greenery drape the length of the table.

5. Floral centerpiece

 If there’s one element that has the biggest impact, it has to be a floral centerpiece. I used fresh flowers and holidays greens, with scattered pine cones for seasonal flavor. It’s hard to feel like you’re sitting in the kitchen when the table is graced with a lovely arrangement.

6. Silver

No elegant table is complete without some silver on it. I used silver flatware, pewter chargers, silver-plate candelabras and a silver bowl for my centerpieces. But what really makes the environment special is when your kitchen is equipped with elegant elements, as well.

While I don’t have a tiny kitchen like my grandmother’s itsy-bitsy one, and I have a full dining room next to my kitchen, most of my holiday dinners include a large crowd and I always use the tables in both rooms.

I set my tables with equal elegance and no one ever complains about eating in the kitchen.

After all, the kitchen table is one step closer to the food!

More Tips for Elevating Your Table Set in the Kitchen

• Layered Table Linens: Start with a crisp white tablecloth and layer a runner or placemats in a rich fabric like velvet or linen.
• Statement Centerpiece: Use a dramatic floral arrangement or a grouping of candles to draw attention to the table.
• Charger Plates: Add metallic or textured chargers beneath your plates for an upscale touch.
• Elegant Flatware: Swap everyday utensils for polished silver or gold flatware.
• Coordinated Dishware: Use matching plates and bowls with a classic or sophisticated pattern.
• Tall Candles: Place taper candles in elegant holders to create height and ambiance.
• Crystal Glassware: Use crystal or cut glass for a refined look, even for water glasses.
• Cloth Napkins: Fold linen napkins and secure them with decorative napkin rings.
• Decorative Chair Accents: Tie a ribbon or small wreath to the back of each chair for a festive touch.
• Dimmed Lighting: Adjust the kitchen lighting and add soft candlelight for a cozy glow.
• Fresh Greenery: Lay sprigs of eucalyptus or pine down the center of the table for a natural runner.
• Personalized Place Cards: Write each guest’s name on elegant cards to make the setting feel special.
• Small Decorative Elements: Add metallic ornaments, seasonal berries, or mini figurines to the table.
• Reflective Accents: Use a mirrored tray or metallic decor to bounce light around the space.
• Themed Colors: Stick to a cohesive color scheme like gold and white, or black and silver for drama.
• Decorative Coasters: Use coasters made of marble, wood, or glittered material for a polished touch.
• Accent Pieces: Place small vases with single blooms or sprigs around the table for visual interest.
• Textured Elements: Add layers of texture with woven placemats, velvet ribbons, or ruffled chargers.
• Conceal Appliances: Use a fabric screen or strategically placed greenery to hide large appliances.
• Mini Dessert Display: Set up a small cake stand or tray with petite desserts on the table for added charm.
• Seasonal Touches: Incorporate subtle seasonal decor like snowflakes in winter or leaves in fall.
• Stylish Drinkware: Use stemmed glasses for water or juice to elevate the everyday.
• Compact Serving Dishes: Use elegant serving trays or bowls to minimize clutter.
• Scented Candles: Choose light, non-overpowering scents like vanilla or cedar for added warmth.
• Remove Clutter: Clear nearby countertops and arrange a few decorative items for a polished backdrop.

Today I’m joining with a talented group of bloggers to bring you the Styled + Set Holiday Entertaining series. Please be sure to visit all of the other posts linked at the bottom of this one.

On Sutton Place | Shabbyfufu | Craftberry Bush | StoneGable