The Runner & Base
Start with a linen or cotton table runner and placemats. Avoid vinyl—it off-gases and photographs poorly. Natural fibers soften the table and age beautifully with washing. Choose neutral tones for versatility or go bold with deep seasonal colors.
Solino Home 100% Linen Table Runner
This natural linen runner from Solino Home drapes beautifully and softens with every wash. The neutral tone pairs with any palette, and the 90-inch length works for standard 6-8 person dining tables. Pre-washed for a relaxed texture that feels lived-in and elegant. 100% European Linen, Fair Trade, Sustainable.
Solino Home 100% Linen Dinner Napkins
Classic white linen napkins that elevate every place setting. The generous 20×20 size folds beautifully and feels substantial. These napkins get softer with age—no need for paper disposables. Pair with fabric ribbon or twine and a handwritten name tag for a personal touch. 100% Linen, OEKO-TEX Certified, Fair Trade.
Candlelight (The Safe Way)
Four to six beeswax tapers in stable holders set the mood without overpowering. Keep greenery at least 6 inches from any flame. For homes with kids or pets, mix in flameless LED tapers along the length for worry-free ambiance.
Bluecorn 100% Pure Beeswax Taper Candles
These handmade beeswax tapers burn clean for 10-12 hours each with zero soot or synthetic fragrance. The natural ivory tone comes from filtration—no dyes added. Beeswax candles naturally purify the air by releasing negative ions, making them ideal for indoor gatherings. Bluecorn Beeswax (Colorado), Handmade, 100% Pure Beeswax.
Ceramic Taper Candle Holders
These sleek ceramic candlestick holders provide a stable base for standard taper candles. The neutral tone works with any palette, and the weighted ceramic prevents tipping. The simple design keeps focus on the candlelight itself. Ceramic, Minimalist Design, Stable Base.
Flameless Taper Candles with Remote
For homes with kids or pets, these flameless tapers offer the warm glow of candlelight without the fire risk. Made from real wax with a flickering LED light, they look surprisingly realistic. The remote lets you turn them on/off and set a timer. LED, Real-Wax Exterior, Kid-Safe.
Centerpiece Recipes (Pick One)
Choose one centerpiece style and repeat it down the length of your table. Keep it low (under 9 inches) so guests can see each other easily.
Option 1: Greenery Line
Lay a garland of eucalyptus or pine down the center of your runner. Tuck in pine cones and nestle tapers every 18-24 inches. This look is casual, fragrant, and forgiving—no vase required.
Option 2: Low Bowls Trio
Place three low glass or stoneware bowls down the table's center. Fill each with water, citrus slices, whole cloves, and a floating tea light or sprig of rosemary. The citrus + clove scent is subtle and seasonal.
Option 3: Board Vignette
Use a wood serving board as your centerpiece base. Arrange 3 tapers, a mini bud vase with a single stem, and a decorative match striker. This works especially well for long, narrow tables where a traditional centerpiece would feel too wide.
Place Settings
Layer stoneware plates, cloth napkins tied with fabric ribbon or twine, and a handwritten name tag. Skip plastic name holders—use small kraft paper tags or leaves instead.
Stoneware Dinner Plates, Matte Black
These matte black stoneware plates add drama to your holiday table without being overly formal. The neutral tone makes food colors pop, and the durable ceramic is microwave and dishwasher safe. The slightly textured finish hides minor scratches and feels artisan-made. Stoneware Ceramic, Microwave Safe, Dishwasher Safe.
Libbey Water Goblets
Clear glass goblets are the workhorse of holiday entertaining. These 16-ounce Libbey goblets hold plenty of water, wine, or cocktails and feel substantial without being too formal. The classic shape pairs with any table setting, and clear glass photographs beautifully. Libbey (Made in USA), Dishwasher Safe, Classic Design.
Centerpiece Building Blocks
These versatile pieces let you customize your centerpiece style and reuse them beyond the holidays.
Virginia Boys Kitchens Black Walnut Serving Board
This beautiful black walnut board serves double-duty: use it as a centerpiece base for your "board vignette" style, then flip it over for cheese and charcuterie service. The rich wood grain adds warmth to any table, and the 17×11 size works perfectly for long, narrow tables. Virginia Boys Kitchens (Virginia), Made in USA, Sustainably Harvested Hardwood.
Assorted Clear Glass Bud Vases
This set of 24 small glass bud vases gives you endless options for low arrangements. Use 3-5 vases down the table with single stems of eucalyptus, pine, or dried grasses. The varied shapes add visual interest without height, and clear glass disappears into any color scheme. Glass, Versatile, Reusable Year-Round.
Skeem Glass Match Cloche with Striker
This glass match cloche turns a practical item into a beautiful accent. The cork lid includes a built-in striker, and the glass dome displays long matches like a curated collection. Place it on your centerpiece board or near candles for a host-friendly touch that's both functional and decorative. Skeem Design, Apothecary Style, Functional Decor.
Reuse Ideas
Extend the life of your holiday table décor beyond the dinner itself. Move the runner/garland to the mantle next week; store candles wrapped; stack bowls as fruit centerpieces post-holiday. Linens and stoneware transition seamlessly to everyday use—no need to pack them away.
Last updated: November 5, 2025