Christmas Grenadiers

With Christmas less than a week away, I've decided on a table setting for the dinner we will have Christmas Eve. Celebrating Christmas Eve with a formal dinner is a tradition that my parents started when I was child, and which Greg and I have happily continued. Christmas Eve dinners are merry and cozy, bright with glitter and glam!

Formal, but not stuffy, the table is set with both high and low elements to bring a contemporary twist to traditional entertaining.

I get to use my new Christmas china for the first time! Greg had given me a few pieces last Christmas, and several more for my birthday. He surprised me last week with an early Christmas present so I could set a lovely holiday table for six. 

Nutcrackers were the natural choice for a centerpiece. I searched several craft stores to find ones that were a good height for the table, and had touches of glitter. 

I picture them strutting down the table, urged on by the drummer in blue!

On the plates, grenadiers stand at attention next to Christmas trees lit with candles. The salad plates are encircled by a red band, the dinner plates by one of gold. Both are rimmed with holly garlands. 

Paired napkins in green and white are held by glittery red napkin rings. Offsetting the gold is our wedding silverware. I'm so glad we chose this pattern — I'm still crazy about it!

Weaving through the nutcrackers down the center are several types of faux greenery, berries and pine cones. Gold glittery stars are nestled throughout.

Supporting the crystal stemware are coasters I found when I went looking for ornaments.

I don't often use coasters on the table, but these were too fun to pass up.

He seems to agree!

I've had the napkins and runner for more than 10 years and they've graced many a holiday table. The crystal stems are cherished wedding gifts that we've used regularly.

A simple vignette on the buffet coordinates with the table.

Disparate elements have come together to create a table that's merry and bright!

Thought I'd take a few shots in the morning sun.

May you have a wonderful holiday season!

Table resources
Plates | Bernardaud 'Grenadiers'
Stemware | Waterford Marquis 'Hanover Gold'
Silverware | Reed & Barton 'Eighteenth Century'