The Christmas tree is brightly lit, illuminating the room and nesting the colourful presents at its base, the carols are filling the air and summoning a cheerful atmosphere, and the aromas of the Christmas feast being warmed up in the oven are dancing around the house. All that is left to do before the guests arrive is to set the Christmas table, to complete that Christmas magic and make everyone feel a part of something special.

If you love setting an atmosphere, creating an intimate mood, and decorating your house but aren’t sure where to begin when it comes to putting together the little details to set a table, we’ve put together a guide for you to follow, or to use as inspiration.

1. Choose a theme - ours was 'rustic woodland forest'

Pinterest is absolutely flooded with ideas here, but to keep it simple, work with what you’ve got. For us, natural tones, foraged greens and rustic tableware is our thing and sets a magical, homely, fairytale vibe, so we couldn’t go past the ‘rustic woodland forest’ theme.

2. Create a table centrepiece out of Christmas foliage

To save time, you can easily buy foliage from florists this time of year. But if you’re up for the adventure, go foraging through your backyard, nearby bushland or find a park with plentiful trees.

Use a vase in the middle of the table to create the centrepiece, and spread your foliage across the table too, scattering leaves here and there to tie everything in together.

3. Choose tableware and cutlery to match your theme

We couldn’t go past this Twiggy Cutlery set by The Wholesome Store, it matched our theme perfectly. An alternative is heading to the op shops to find vintage cutlery. Some of our favourite pieces were found in the dusty corners of op shops! Give them a good shake and wash, and they bring all the antique vibes.

The twiggy cutlery also matched perfectly with our ceramic plates, completing the earthy forest vibe.

4. Table linen sets the tone

There’s just something about linen that makes a space look inviting, comfortable and homely. Table linen is a worthy, timeless investment that can be suited to so many different styles. Neutral colours are the key here for being able to style the table to suit any theme.

5. Create intimate lighting with candles and fairy lights

You can’t go past fairy lights and candles when it comes to table settings. Particular in the evening when the lights are dimmed, candles and fairy lights bring that Christmas magic, add to the beautiful aromas floating around the room, and create the most special atmosphere.

A battery operated fairy light pack is perfect for a table so you don’t have any power cords hanging around.

6. Mismatching glassware adds to the rustic feel

Again, hit up the op shops for this one! Or head to your favourite homeware shops and see if there are any glasses sold individually rather than in packs. These can also make cute presents, and can be turned into DIY candles!

7. Add a styled napkin

A natural coloured napkin pairs perfectly with twine, a sprig of rosemary, holly leaves and an acorn for this theme. This is definitely one of the most personal touches for the table setting, and helps to make the table feel full.

8. Add vintage ornaments to the table

The final Christmas touch. Going to that extra detail really takes the table from simply a beautiful style, to emulating all the Christmas spirit. You can also use the same or similar ornaments to the ones hanging on your tree, to tie everything in together with your home.