When it comes to wholesome recipes and at home styling, Lisa Holmen (@lisaeatworld) is one creator we can’t look past. An experienced food and travel blogger, Lisa’s work is inspired by her recent sea change to a slower lifestyle in her new Mornington Peninsula home.
Without a doubt, dessert time is one thing we look forward to on Christmas day. Exploring what Christmas looks like to her, we asked Lisa to share with us her top styling tips on how she will be serving up dessert for her friends and family.
Create the perfect Christmas dessert table
The Christmas table is where Christmas truly comes to life and magic is created. It’s a time to gather our loved ones around the table, celebrate over delicious food and drink, share stories, laugh together and make long term memories that will last in our hearts forever. I have such fond memories of Christmas growing up and now that I have a child of my own it makes it even more special. Watching his face light up as the Christmas tree glistens, the excitement of his first Christmas stocking and singing carols together. This is what the true meaning of Christmas is to me.
Christmas is a busy time so good preparation is essential. Think ahead so you can enjoy the holidays and not sweat the small stuff. If you’re hosting Christmas this year, here’s a few styling tips to get things started to create the dessert tablescape of your dreams and have a bit of fun at the same time.
Pick a theme
Whether it’s coastal inspired, colour specific, bohemian, or modern Australian, the first step to creating a beautiful tablescape is to start with a theme. My personal favourite is an Australian native theme which pays homage to the natural environment and intertwines earthy dinnerware and linens with native florals and leaves. This theme is simple and fuss free but leaves plenty of room for creativity. Think pops of gum or eucalyptus for greenery and sprigs of rosemary teamed with the salt&pepper Arlo Napkins. You can easily find decorative elements in your own backyard like leaves, branches, and gum nuts.
Choose a centrepiece
When it comes to centrepieces, I like to keep it simple to let the food shine. A native garland of gum leaves or foliage of some kind works beautifully, paired with one of the salt&pepper Byron Vases filled with Australian natives. I also love using a wreath as a centrepiece which is traditionally hung on the front door. Don’t go too high on the centrepiece since you want guests to see each other across the table and still have plenty of space for the food.
Embrace layers
Incorporate various layers and textures into a tablescape. Start with a linen tablecloth then add some Paige Placemats and Coasters in Fern under the gorgeous Hue 12 Piece Dinner Set. Add some festive decorations with a home-made touch (I love making personalised bon bons with special gifts inside to surprise my guests). Fill in the gaps in your Christmas table centrepiece with few simple decorations like baubles or stars.
Add some sweetness
Now that the table is styled, it’s time to add the most important thing – the desserts. I love having desserts served ‘family style’ on the table so guests can serve themselves depending on how hungry they are. It’s a good idea to start with a dessert centrepiece. I can never go past a trifle for Christmas – it’s festive, delicious and looks fabulous. I’ve used my Salut Trifle Bowl to create the perfect centrepiece to our Christmas tablescape. Once the trifle takes centre stage add some supporting desserts like mince pies, shortbread, gingerbread, and lollies. I have the new Kringle range of Dip Bowls and Platters to make the table look nice and full as the different shaped platters create interest on the table.
When all is said and done, I love to finish off a busy day with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. The new salt&pepper Oleta mugs and teapots come in an array of bright festive colours that will complement your table, long after those desserts are gone!
To create your ultimate Christmas table or shop the perfect gift for your nearest and dearest, shop our full range in-store now or online via our Christmas Hub.
Credits:
Styling & Photography: @lisaeatworld