Creating a beautiful holiday table can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. Start with a theme and go from there. Maybe you have a set of your grandmother’s china used only during special occasions, or you have a new set of fun nature-inspired place settings, whatever it is—be creative!

If your theme is all about color, incorporate it in new ways—festive holiday ornaments can be grouped in clear glass containers or used as place cards when you tie a name tag to them. Greenery, fruit, pinecones, mistletoe, and garland made of pine or magnolia leaves all bring a natural element to the table and in most cases they can be found right outside your door.

Treasured holiday collections or special pieces handed down through the years can also create a distinctive visual arrangement. Choose one or two pieces to create drama and height for your tablescape. And don’t forget to include lighting that complements your theme, whether it’s candles or lanterns—it will provide the finishing touch to an inspired and stunning table for your holiday gathering.