Holiday Entertaining

Holiday Tablescapes and Festive Recipes

Today’s focus is on holiday entertaining as we prepare to host family and friends with two tablescapes and two beloved holiday recipes. Let’s get right to it!

Dining Room Tablescape

In the formal dining room, an elegant holiday look awaits. The table begins with a base of Cedar Garland, providing a lush and green foundation. Unique chiseled candlesticks and vintage silver mint julep cups add character without obstructing sightlines.

Spruce and Cedar clippings from the yard add freshness. Mercury glass ornaments, collected over the years, bring a touch of holiday sparkle. Black plates, vintage cutlery, cocktail glasses, and linen napkins with festive bows complete the place settings.

The table is complete with a glass bowl containing mercury glass ornaments and scattered votives for added candlelight to bring an elegant ambiance to the space.

Kitchen Tablescape

Moving into the kitchen and family room area, I have a more festive and fun tablescape. A holiday table runner with deep red and green sets the tone.

Paperwhite bulbs in glass bowls, wire brush trees, and playful place settings contribute to the nostalgic and festive atmosphere. Everyday plates, red and white pick-stitch napkins, and creamy snowflake holiday plates complete the setting.

Hamish glasses tie in with the Christmas tree decor. I love having two types of tablescapes so that I am able to bring multiple holiday looks into our home.

Holiday Cider Punch

For holiday entertaining, we are making a fun spiked Holiday Cider Punch. The recipe has eight cups of apple cider, a cup of vodka, four dashes of orange bitters, half a cup of apple butter, a bottle of champagne, and two small bottles of ginger beer. The punch has apple slices and cinnamon sticks as garnsih, creating a crowd-pleasing and flavorful beverage.

Marinated Cheese Recipe

A sought-after appetizer for any gathering is my Famous Marinated Cheese. The marinade is a flavorful combination of white vinegar, olive oil, pimentos, parsley, green onion, sugar, dried basil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic that you incorporate into a jar.

Sharp cheddar and cream cheese slices are arranged alternately on a platter, creating a festive display resembling a holiday wreath. The marinade is poured over the cheese and left to sit overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Shop Our Favorite Holiday Entertaining Essentials

As the holiday season approaches, these tablescapes and recipes offer inspiration for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether aiming for an elegant or festive look, the key is to infuse personal touches and share delicious treats with loved ones. If you’d like, watch the full YouTube video below and see everything step by step.

Thank you so much for reading and for being here with us. Remember, good design is for everyone, so create a home that inspires you. Have fun entertaining this holiday season and fall in love with where you live, one room at a time.

XO, Ashley