Style your Christmas table with a foliage garland

As the festive season approaches, there’s a certain magic in the air that makes us want to bring the beauty of nature indoors.

Creating a native foliage table garland is not just an expression of holiday spirit; it’s a way to slow down and savour the joy of crafting something with your own hands.

Here’s a simple guide to creating a centrepiece that will be the talk of your Christmas dinner.

Materials You’ll Need:

• A selection of greenery (Some of the foliage I've used is cypress pine, eucalyptus, strawflowers and leucadendron)
• Floral wire and /or twine
• Scissors or garden shears

Step 1: Gather Your Greenery

Take a walk in your garden or around your neighbourhood – or visit your local florist to pick up some local foliage. Look for a variety of textures and colours to add depth to your garland. The beauty of this project lies in the diversity of the elements you choose.

Step 2: Create Small Bundles

Using your shears, cut your greenery into manageable pieces. Assemble small bundles and secure them with floral wire or twine. This will make them easier to handle and arrange on your table.

Step 3: Assemble Your Garland

Lay out your bundles along the length of your table, alternating them to create a full, lush look. Tie the bundles together with twine, making sure to keep the wire hidden.

Step 4: Add Some Flair

Introduce some additional elements like dried flowers, pine cones, or even small ornaments to give your garland a personal touch. Remember, there’s no right or wrong here—it’s all about what speaks to you.

 Step 5: Set the Table

Once your garland is in place, it’s time to set the table. Use simple, elegant handmade ceramic tableware to complement the rustic charm of the garland. Stoneware plates and natural linen napkins work beautifully with the greenery. 

Step 6: Add candlelight

Candles are the perfect finishing touch. They add warmth and a soft glow that highlights the natural beauty of your garland. Choose candles in a colour that harmonises with your greenery to keep the look cohesive. (Remember not to leave lit candles unattended near your dried flowers). 

And voilà! You’ve just created a beautiful, handcrafted centrepiece for your Christmas table. It’s more than decoration; it’s a testament to the beauty of nature and the peaceful moments we can find there.

Remember, the key to a stunning table setting is in the details. The soft flicker of candlelight, the texture of the linen, and the unique arrangement of foliage all come together to create a space where memories are made.

This Christmas, let your table be a reflection of what’s important to you. Take the time to create something beautiful, and more importantly, enjoy the process.

The conversations and stories that bloom around your native foliage garland will be the real centrepiece of the evening.