Feast in the MIddle East

I realize that while I can cook, I lack the patience to decorate. I take a minimalist, modern approach–which allows me think less about decor haha! My mother is not only an amazing cook, she is an incredible artist–she can recreate paintings by Degas and Sargent, and…she can also create a mean table setting. I think she puts Martha Stewart to shame! Let me show you her Christmas decorating extravaganza this year for some inspiration:

This year her tree theme was red and gold. Sometimes she does blue and silver, other times silver and white. She has accumulated a ton of ornaments from after Christmas deals, but the dollar store is also a good place to look for color themed ornaments on the cheap. Michael’s is a great place to get berries, ribbons, and candles, and other accents.

Find a dramatic centerpiece as inspiration, and decorate outward. My mother found this beautiful centerpiece at Costco of all places! Then she worked to include red accents throughout the table.  Notice above there is a separate table behind the dining table. This is one of those easy to store lightweight foldable tables. She likes to use that for the food buffet. That way she doesn’t have to remove the decor from the actual dining table to fit the food!

Never underestimate the power of a plate setting–it makes every guest feel special. Coasters in metallic colors give a rich look–and cloth napkins are always on sale at after-Christmas sales at places like Target and Kohl’s. The golden apple napkin ties are from Michael’s. Candles always add a nice intimate touch without much money.

I mean really–LOOK AT THIS TREE! It’s always a shame to take it down as it took so much effort to coordinate.  Below you can see the table in all of its richness. A table runner, like the gold and creme one in the center, adds dimension and color contrast.  Now I will be back with a dessert idea for next week so stay tuned!