Christmas Table Settings and Thrifty Tablescape Ideas

There are many ways to set the Christmas table, but this year I chose a rustic and romantic theme using items that I already owned.

Rustic Elements of the Christmas Table

Deer Antlers- I used deer antlers to anchor both sides of the table. Deer make us think of nature and the wild, which is truly rustic.
Pine Cones- I painted the tips on the pine cones to make them feel more wintery and placed them randomly on the table.
Cedar Branches- We have a bush out back that has the most beautiful branches. I snipped a few, let them air out and then placed them on the table to create an earthy foundation to build upon.

Romantic Elements of the Christmas Tablescape

Brass Elements- The brass deer and candlesticks create a rich and fancy feel to the table.
Glitter- The center piece tree adds a special touch with the glistening flecks on the tree.
Candles- Candles instantly warm up the table and tell our eyes that this meal is special.
Silver- I borrowed some vintage/antique (I’m not sure which it is. lol) silverware from a friend for this tablescape. There is something so romantic and charming about patinated silverware that you can’t get with stainless silverware. I have been on the hunt for my own for over a year now and I’ve come up short, but I’m hopeful I will find my own soon.

Christmas Table Runner

Table runners are a simple element that can create a festive vibe during the holidays. They can be layered on top of a tablecloth, or set out to shine all on their own!

If you have small children, a Christmas table runner is an easy addition to a table because you don’t have to worry about food getting spilled on them when little hands are eating.

Not only are table runners cheaper than a full table cloth, but they can even be made out of remnant fabric, so get creative!

Christmas Table Setting

Whether you are setting the Christmas table for a large group, or just for your family, adding some special touches will make your table feel festive.

If you don’t have very many Christmas decorations tucked away, start with a few simple items, such as real glasses in lieu of plastic.

Throw on a tablecloth, such as a simple white tablecloth, with traditional holly down the center as a Christmas centerpiece. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Even small touches make a table feel special.

Another addition you can make to a Christmas table setting is to thrift some old silver to use in place of your everyday flatware. If you’ve inherited your grandma’s silver… even better!

Items you can find for your own Christmas Table Setting

Linen Tablecloth

Brass Candle Holders

Cedar Branches– here are some faux branches you can use year after year!

Where to find Christmas Table Decor on a budget

If you are just starting your Christmas decor collection, be sure to look for items that are priced well, especially because your taste might change.

I started out loving modern Christmas decorations when I was younger and as I’ve aged, I’ve settled into a more classic Christmas taste. Be sure to keep in mind that your tastes might grow with you!

There are several thrifty places you can look for Christmas decorations. I’ll share a few that I regularly check out during the Christmas season.

Facebook Marketplace
Thrift stores
Antique stores
Craft stores- they often run good sales!
My mom’s Christmas stash 😉

Classic Christmas Decoration Ideas

One of the thriftiest ways to decorate for the holidays is to make sure you are spending your money on classic items that won’t go out of style.

Trends come and go, but classic decorations will always have a place. If you are going to spend money, make sure the bulk of your money is spent on timeless items.

You can include some trendy pieces amongst the classic items, but spend the bulk of your money on those items that will be used for years to come!