How To Set A Small Table For The Holidays

How to Set a {Small} Table
for the Holidays

Let’s face it - the holidays will look a lot different this year. Many of us will be staying home rather than traveling to our relative’s {larger} homes, possibly hosting small gatherings with those closest to us - literally. No matter what our holidays will look like this season, we shouldn’t skip out on the special holiday table settings!

Whether your holiday dining table this year is large or small (or even no dining table at all!), take a look at our top holiday table setting picks. Let’s get your table holiday-ready, for your intimate brunch, friends-giving or a fancy dinner-for-one!

You will need:

Table covering ~ i.e. placemats, a table runner, & coasters

Plates & bowls ~ 1 per person

Cloth napkins ~ 1 per person

Flatware ~ i.e. forks, knives, spoons, etc / 1 of each type per person

Water glasses ~ 1 per person

Wine & liquor glasses ~ 1 per person

Small table accents / decor ~ as many as you like!

(*** Need a table?? Check out our recs at the end! ***)

Let’s go!

Step 1: Lay out the table covering

First, start with the table covering. We suggest using placemats or a table runner instead of a tablecloth to keep it casual (plus it’s easy to clean!). Use 1 placemat per person or 1 table runner. You can even add coasters, if needed. It’s all about layering!

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Step 2: Place plates & bowls on top of the placemats or runner.

Next, lay your plates in the center of the placemats or edge of the runner, and set the bowls on top of the plates. Have fun with it - mix the colors or materials of your plates and bowls for visual interest.

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Step 3: Fold and place cloth napkins

Get creative & fold your napkins, or use a napkin ring. We like to keep it eco-friendly by choosing reusable cloth napkins. Place napkins to the left or center of each plate & bowl.

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Step 4: Arrange flatware

Gather your forks, spoons, knives, chopsticks or your preferred eating utensils. Place a dinner fork on the left of the plate, on the napkin. Place a dinner knife and soup spoon on the right of the plate, from left to right.

Step 5: Set out water glasses

Set a water glass to the right, directly above the dinner knife. You can also serve juice, or a cocktail in your glasses - we won’t tell :).

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Step 6: Wine + Liquor Glasses (optional but recommended)

Next, place your wine or liquor glass to the right of the water glass. Impress your guests (or pet) by serving your alcohol in a stylish decanter. Cheers!

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Step 7: Accents

Lets not forget the festive decor to make your setting insta-worthy! Grab anything from candles, spice mills, small vases.

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Need a dining table?? Check out some of our favorite small dining tables, suitable for smaller spaces.

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Happy Holidays! Eat up!