Holiday Tablescape Inspiration from Helen Olivia and Kristin Try Interiors
This holiday season, Rachel of Helen Olivia and Kristin of Kristin Try Interiors teamed up to create a couple of festive tablescape ideas for you at Kristin’s home. Together, they’re sharing their tips and tricks to help you craft a stunning holiday table that’s as warm and inviting as the season itself.
Holiday Traditions
Kristin’s Perspective:
For years, I poured my holiday energy into cooking and baking, often overlooking the table setting. A few years ago, I handed the cooking reins to my talented husband, which gave me the chance to focus on creating a beautiful, welcoming tablescape. Now, I love combining effortless design with meaningful details, from wine pairings to cherished recipes, for memorable meals with loved ones.
One of my favorite holiday traditions is using hand-block-printed tablecloths. This year, I picked up a stunning design from Pomegranate at Alexandria’s Crème de la Crème on King Street. These tablecloths become the foundation for my tablescape. Depending on the pattern, I choose coordinating plates, drinkware, and flatware. My go-to pieces include smoky wine glasses from Estelle Colored Glass, gold flatware, and pink water glasses I found at the local Crate and Barrel outlet.
No holiday table is complete without flowers. Whenever I can, I include one of Helen Olivia’s breathtaking arrangements. For my dining table, which is on the smaller side, I often opt for long and low arrangements that add beauty without taking up too much space. Another favorite option is arranging several bud vases with a single type of flower. For this shoot, Rachel curated a stunning display of brownie tulips in elegant bud vases available at her shop, Helen Olivia Flowers.
Rachel’s Perspective:
Would it surprise anyone if I confessed my favorite part of Thanksgiving was the décor? Each year, I love planning for a table that feels fresh and on trend for the season, and especially something that hasn’t been seen all over Pinterest.
For me, the first step in styling a table is always the linen. I love a tablecloth not just because it protects my table from the tiny humans in my house, but also because it is such a quick way to bring warmth and color into a space. I have a few favorite linens in my home, but more often than not I turn to my favorite local rental company, DC Rental, to grab something new and cool each holiday.
For the place setting, I love layering a great charger for added warmth and texture on the table. Woven or metallic options are great for a Thanksgiving table. Patterned napkins are also a great way to make a table look custom. Lastly, I love a fun salad plate- and I had serious envy when I saw how cool Kristin’s butterfly salad plates from Manse were for our shoot.
For my own flowers, I love making a few different types of arrangements so I have the flexibility to move things around. Bud vases are always great for a dining table, and allow the flexibility to mix in candles and platters. I have a tradition of creating a beautiful cornucopia each year for my kitchen island where food is laid out, and it’s such a pretty accent.
Partnering Together
Kristin: Collaborating with Rachel was such a joy! She brings incredible talent and creativity to every floral design, making Helen Olivia a true gem in Alexandria. Spending an afternoon designing this tablescape together was a wonderful reminder of the magic that local businesses can bring to our holiday celebrations.
Rachel: When Kristin and I first started plotting a Helen Olivia x KTI crossover, I was secretly hoping for a classic Kristin table. What do I mean by that? I was hoping for all the things that I think of when I think Kristin – gorgeous color, her signature block prints, and a perfect juxtaposition of classic style and the cool factor. She delivered big time on all fronts, and it was such a treat spending the afternoon together in her home styling a holiday table.
As you plan your own holiday gatherings, we hope our collaboration inspires you to create a table that feels uniquely yours. And remember, whether you prefer grand arrangements or simple bud vases, ordering your flowers early ensures they’ll be ready to make your table shine.
Cheers to a season filled with beautiful tables, shared meals, and time spent with those you love!
Quick Holiday Decorating Tips
Start with a Statement Tablecloth: Choose a festive or textured tablecloth to set the tone for your tablescape. A bold pattern can inspire your entire design.
Layer with Texture: Use chargers, placemats, or runners to add depth to your table. Mixing materials like wood, metal, and fabric creates visual interest.
Mix & Match Glassware: Combine colored glassware with classic neutrals for an elegant but playful look.
Incorporate Natural Elements: Fresh greenery, pinecones, or dried citrus can bring a seasonal touch without much effort.
Play with Lighting: Add warmth with candles in varying heights. Opt for unscented candles so they don’t compete with your meal’s aroma or give your guests a headache.
Personalize with Place Cards: A handwritten name tag adds charm and makes your guests feel special.
Keep It Simple with Flowers: If space is limited, use bud vases with single-stem flowers to achieve a polished yet minimal look but don’t shy away from adding in flowers on a sideboard, in the kitchen, or the coffee table for those after dinner drinks!
