Ever exuding an effortless style, Melissa Penfold knows a thing or two about putting together a perfectly styled vignette in the home — whether to be simply enjoyed every day, or something for a special occasion.
And Christmas is no exception. Dress your home and table for the festive season with the help of this luxurious Christmas checklist. Consider these your building blocks for a simple, stylish celebration.
1. USE WHAT YOU HAVE
Too many people think they can solve Christmas decorating by buying something. When you let go of trying to buy more of what you don’t really need, it frees up oceans of energy to make a difference with what you have. You’d be far better off arranging armfuls of fir, spruce or holly from a friend’s garden and piling it in big bowls and vases on your entry table. Greenery is inexpensive and chic, and bringing the outdoors in feels natural, authentic and individual, as well as being an antidote to the season’s consumerism.
A mantel primed with fir-tree foliage.
(Photographer: Abbie Melle) (Credit: Photographer: Abbie Melle)2. AVOID SAME, SAME
A big mistake people make is using the same Christmas decorations in the same way each year. Try something new. Move your tree to the entry or perhaps near the fireplace to achieve a different look.
3. BE EFFICIENT
Set the table the day before, then focus on the flowers and room decor. Remember: gleaming glasses add instant glamour. Line them up on trays.
4. burn A CANDLE
Scented candles will make your interior feel instantly warm, calm and inviting. Overpowering scents, which can be unappealing and trigger sneezing attacks, are to be avoided. So pick candles made with soy or beeswax and essential oils with a natural fragrance, to make your home smell like Christmas.
Festive fruit piled high on the outdoor table at Melissa’s country home.
(Photographer: Abbie Melle) (Credit: Photographer: Abbie Melle)5. AVOID CLICHÉd SCHEMES THAT CLASH
Beware anything that jars with your usual interior decor, and don’t use shopping-centre clichés such as blue and silver or gold and green. Silver and gold metallics, or taupe and green, are more chic. Or try gold and a soft pink. Set up just two or three vignettes around meaningful pieces.
6. DON’T TRY TOO HARD
Sometimes it’s more sophisticated to have less. Just make it look good because presentation is everything. Use a low centrepiece. Place a bowl of big silver baubles in the middle of your table, or feature an urn filled with huge, perfect apples. Lovely generous napkins send a powerful message. But so, unfortunately, do stains, fraying edges and musty smells.
7. invest in CRACKERS
Premium-quality Christmas crackers speak to an elegant affair, so don’t skimp.
Small presents hung on the tree.
(Photographer: Abbie Melle) (Credit: Photographer: Abbie Melle)8. check your LIGHTs
Many people unknowingly buy LED lights without considering the temperature of the bulbs. White, blue-hued LED lights not only create a cold feeling, they are often hard on the eyes. Look for the far more romantic warmer options.
9. CELEBRATE THE TRUE MEANING of christmas
Try to avoid the commercial volcano that erupts at the end of each year. Amid the rushing and rejoicing, remind yourself that this is a holiday of modest spirit and humble aspirations. Goodwill to all. Peace on earth.
Christmas table setting at Melissa’s house in the NSW Southern Highlands.
(Photographer: Abbie Melle) (Credit: Photographer: Abbie Melle)Our Christmas shopping guide for 2022
Spella candle in Woody Amber 270g, from $159, Trudon
Part of Trudon’s ‘Charming Christmas’ collection, this candle has a wonderful woody oriental perfume with a touch of rose and geranium which lifts and reveals a hint of pure magic. The perfect way to create an enveloping and homely feel at Christmas. SHOP NOW
Waterford Crystal Irish lace martini glasses, $749/pair, David Jones
Reminiscent of icicles and inspired by the iconic Irish Lace making craft, this timeless crystal stemware set will add something special to any Christmas table. SHOP NOW
Wine and bar tray, $220, Georg Jensen
This mirrored polished stainless steel tray is both a practical and pretty addition to your Christmas table. Fill with ice cubes to serve oysters, top with fruit, or line with glassware. The options are endless. SHOP NOW
Santa Maria Novella Sicily Water (Acqua di Sicilia) 100ml, $215, Myer
Scent has an incredible way of setting a mood and creating ambience. It can also influence the way someone remembers an event or celebration. And what better way to remember it than with fresh notes of Sicilian citrus fruits, like bitter orange blossom and bergamot. SHOP NOW
Linen tablecloth in Slate, from $145, Cultiver
A tablecloth sets the scene for your table setting. This 100% European linen one in a beautiful deep charcoal-tone will make your silver cutlery pop, and is the perfect slightly textured base to build upon. Plus, nothing drapes quite as elegantly as linen. SHOP NOW
Christmas paper snowflake, $99, Aura Home
You needn’t fall into the trap of succumbing to cliched and kitsch Christmas decorations. There are plenty of refined yet whimsical options out there, including this hanging snowflake, crafted from textured paper and beautiful ribbons. SHOP NOW
