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As the festive season approaches, we prepare to gather around the table to share good food, laughter, and memories with loved ones. A beautifully set table doesn’t just elevate the dining experience – it creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the joy of the season. Whether you’re hosting a casual braai or a formal Christmas lunch, here are some creative tips and ideas to inspire your festive table setting, with a uniquely South African touch.
- Embrace Natural Elements: Celebrate the beauty of a South African summer by incorporating natural elements into your table decor. Use local foliage like proteas, fynbos, or eucalyptus as centerpieces. These hardy plants not only add a stunning visual but also bring a fresh, earthy scent to the table.
- Keep It Cool and Light, but don’t be afraid of colour! With South Africa’s summer heat in full swing, opt for lighter, breathable materials. Use tablecloths or runners made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen in neutral shades, but don’t be afraid of using pops of colour. These materials create a breezy, relaxed feel that complements outdoor or semi-outdoor dining spaces.
- Celebrate Local Artisans: South Africa is home to a wealth of talented artisans who create beautiful handcrafted tableware and decor. Support local businesses by incorporating their creations into your festive table. Think ceramic plates, hand-blown glassware, or unique woven baskets as bread holders. Brands like Baskiti offer custom woven designs perfect for adding an authentic local touch to your setup.
- Serve with Style: Presentation is key when it comes to festive feasting. Use large wooden boards for charcuterie spreads, enamel bowls for salads, and colorful pottery for desserts. Arrange dishes in a way that encourages sharing, embracing the communal spirit of South African dining.
- Sip Something Special: Nothing sets the tone for a festive meal quite like a signature drink. This year, impress your guests with a unique G & Tea experience using the Floral Berry and Lemon, Chamomile, and Lavender LMC tea combo. The popular Floral Berry gin is a beautifully aromatic, sweet floral nose, with a classic initial top note of juniper, ending with a lingering berry flavour. Add an LMC Lemon, Chamomile and Lavender teabag to your glass for even more colour and flavour, a unique experience to delight your guests. Not only is it delicious, but it also adds a sophisticated twist to your beverage menu.
- Light the Way: Create a magical ambiance with the right lighting. Candles of varying heights on the table provide a warm, intimate vibe that can truly take you from lunch to dinner. We love the various designs and colours of Okracandle.
- Personal Touches: Make your guests feel extra special by adding personal details to their place settings. Handmade place cards, or small gifts such as these Gingerbread Crackers with sprinkles and a special message from Harck & Heart, will make your table extra special.
- Stay Sustainable: This festive season, consider sustainability in your table-setting and gifting choices.
- Plan ahead: The key to a stress-free festive celebration is preparation. Plan your menu and table decor well in advance. Set your table the night before to ensure everything is picture-perfect by the time your guests arrive.
We couldn’t leave you without a few local Gifting Ideas, see below our top picks:
Gifting Ideas to Brighten the Season:
- The Sienna Suede Leather Handbag from Thandana: A luxurious and timeless accessory for any wardrobe.
- LMC’s Loose Leaf Tea and Tin Combo: A perfect gift for tea lovers, combining elegance and flavor.
- Sloom’s Height-Adjustable Pillows: For those who truly understand the importance of quality sleep.
- Cakes from The Velvet Cake Co.’s Cake Cart: Shipped nationwide, these iconic and decadent cakes are a delightful treat.
- Harck&Heart’s Christmas Cracker Cookies: Fun and festive table settings with sprinkles and hidden messages inside.
- The iconic Mondvol Christmas Cookies: Deliciously handcrafted cookies that make perfect stocking stuffers or dessert table additions. Their Christmas box JUST launched.
This festive season, let your table be a reflection of the joy, beauty, and warmth that South African summers bring and get ready to toast to a season of celebration and togetherness.