Easy table-setting ideas with maximum impact

These easy table-setting ideas will make everyone forget that that's your only Christmas Day job.

You don't cook, the cleaning's been done, but you need to contribute to the Christmas Day festivities in some way. Nobody actually wants to set the table for Christmas Day but it has to be done. If you're not doing the dinner and loading the dishwasher duties has already been claimed, you can't just say you'll keep glasses filled. You should do that anyway.

So, if table-setting is your job this year, do an amazing job. Festive placemats, a poinsettia and a couple of candles is nice, but basic AF. Get inspired with these easy table-setting ideas for a totally Instagrammable Christmas Day lunch.

Foliage

Spread branches from the Christmas tree, sprigs of holly, even some bare branches down a table runner and you won't waste space with a statement.

Tinsel and Sparkle

For some reason, people hate tinsel even though it's the most Christmassy decoration of all. If you have tinsel-phobics in your family, wrap some around the napkins to create festive napkin rings. That will show 'em.

In my family, we usually have a plain white tablecloth that my sister (who is always in charge of table-setting because she's the artistic one) will sprinkle gold stars on. Very simple but a lovely touch. In the pic above, they've used sequins, which are also lovely.

Lights

Instead of, or with candles, place some battery pack fair lights down the length of the table. Magical!

Minimalism

If you've got a small table to decorate, something like this is gorgeous. A couple of brass, gold and copper candle sticks, some pine cones and presents - real or fake!

Ornaments

Instead of greenery or wreaths, place lovely little Christmas ornaments on the table. You could even create a scene!

Who is one table setting duties in your house? Do you like the job?