Get ready to step back in time and celebrate Christmas with a touch of vintage charm! I created a simple vintage Christmas tablescape on my kitchen table this year.
The idea blossomed when I found a set of placemats from my Nana’s collection.
They exuded a distinctly vintage charm with their timeless imagery, inspiring me to curate an entire tablescape that echoed this essence.
My Nana passed away 13 years ago. Pulling out these placemats made me feel connected to her.
That they once sat on her table. And now on mine.
I felt an intense pull to use them, along with other items I’d inherited from her.
Hence, a holiday table setting that incorporated items from the past.
Creating a Vintage Christmas Tablescape
Diving into this endeavor, I delved into my inherited treasures to see what else I could use. And then incorporated additional items I’d found at estate sales.
1. Setting the Vintage Scene
First, I laid down a sheer, intricately embroidered tablecloth reminiscent of holiday motifs, creating a perfect foundation for my nostalgic setting.
On top of the tablecloth, I place the cherished vintage placemats.
Their charming scene of a couple on a sleigh ride and the colors used are reminiscent of holidays past.
2. Nostalgic Napkins and Place Settings
For the vintage-inspired place settings, I started with thick green glasses, acquired from an estate sale, echoing the hues of the placemats.
Instead of dinner plates (which would cover the placemats’ fantastic winter scene), I opted for small delicate clear glass plates with silver designs, gifted by a neighbor, with accompanying matching sorbet glasses.
They evoke nostalgia with every glance.
I opted to use vintage green napkins, discovered at a different estate sale, which perfectly complemented the glasses and colors within the placemats.
A snowflake-shaped napkin ring around the napkin added a touch of winter whimsy, marrying elegance with nostalgia.
The table’s vintage ambiance unfolded with each carefully selected piece.
For utensils, I opted for the sleek lines of inherited silverware from my mother.
Elevating the table’s charm, whimsical place card holders depicting angels, snowmen, and Santa from my Nana’s collection lent a playful touch.
A personalized square piece of paper slipped into each holder added a special feel to each setting.
3. Embracing Vintage Elements in the Centerpiece
For the centerpiece, I started with a set of angel chimes from yesteryears. They transported me to cherished childhood memories.
Then I added little touches, like a crystal toothpick holder, small salt and pepper shakers on a tiny silver tray, and vintage-inspired clear trees.
My favorite item I’ve inherited from my Nana is her beautiful cut glass dish. It captures and reflects light in exquisite patterns.
Inside the vintage dish, I added glass candy ornaments, so it appeared to be a candy dish.
A Vintage Christmas Tablescape Filled with Memories
This vintage Christmas tablescape goes beyond just aesthetics; it’s a celebration of the past, filled with memories and cherished heirlooms.
It reminds me of the magic of Christmas and the joy of sharing it with loved ones.
So gather your vintage treasures, embrace the nostalgia, and create a tablescape that speaks to your heart.
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