Holiday Table Tricks that will Wow Your Guests
By Columnist Kathy Peterson - KathyPeterson.com
 I simply love to “wow” my dinner guests with creative holiday table settings. Simple is the key word here because it’s really those little things that create a wow-factor. When you add simple design touches to any table setting, it shows your guests that you really care enough about them to feel extra special.So when I was asked by the TV producer’s of Living The Life TV show on ABC Family Channel (airs November 12 and December 18 at 9:30 a.m. EST) to set several creative holiday tables, I couldn’t resist giving you a sneak peak at one of the Christmas table settings I created for the TV show.
ADDING TEXTURE For an earthy feel, start by blending layers of color in soft, warm chocolate browns with rich Christmas reds. Layer holiday greenery between the tablecloth and dinner plates to create a unique place setting. Add contrast to the mix adding some wood beads and then tucking a folded tea towel lengthwise topped with a green velvet ribbon between the two plates. Finish each plate with a resin reindeer and some artificial red berries. Consider offering the reindeer as party favors to give as gifts to your guest! 
Notice the difference in the before place setting and the added elements in the after shot. Big difference yet with so little effort!
LAYERS AND LIFTS
Instead of putting candles inside the candle holders, consider stuffing the holders with artificial red berries for an interesting look. To lift and layer the candle holders I used glass bowls already on hand. This is a great trick if you have items that are all the same height or shape. To complete the organic theme, consider using strands of wood beads and a standing reindeer to surround the candle holders.
 SIMPLE DELIGHT
Your guests will be delighted that you spent a little extra time setting a beautiful holiday table. Remember---it’s all in the little details! HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED FOR THIS PROJECT
- Tablecloth in tan and red colors. –Can’t find the perfect cloth? I used fabric to cover my table. - Red tea towels for napkins - 16 inch strips of green velvet ribbon - Stands of wooden beads - Three glass candle holders - Two glass bowls used as risers for the candle holders - Resin reindeer - Artificial greenery and red berries Note: you can use fresh cut greenery but be sure the pine smell does not over power the meal and make sure the berries are not poisonous. Kathy Peterson Inspired for Rental Decorating Digest | 
