It’s not uncommon to have friends, family and overnight guests coming and going throughout the month of December. And what’s the one thing everyone does? We eat! We plan meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner! So let’s talk about how we can make our guests feel welcome at the dinner table without emptying your wallet!
Creating a beautiful table doesn’t always have to be expensive — or permanent, for that matter. Today’s post is all about creating a cozy dining environment quickly, easily and budget-consciously. For this table setting, I started off with a simple centerpiece; it’s just three artificial Christmas trees that I borrowed from my Christmas décor around the house. Then I added a few clippings from bushes outside and draped some gold bead garland around the trees. The good thing about pulling your décor from around the house rather than creating a whole look that is meant to stay on the table is that when you are dealing with a smaller space or table, you can simply take these decorations off the table and back to where you got them from when cleaning off your dishes. Then you will be all set for playing card games or having friendly conversations!
Place cards always make people feel welcomed at the table, but sometimes it’s difficult to make place cards for all the different visitors you will have over the holidays. These chalkboard place cards make it extremely simple for you to change out as often as necessary!
How to Make Simple and Reusable Place Cards
Supplies:
-Cloth napkins
-Pre-cut chalkboard cutouts
-Chalk
-Twine
-Evergreen clippings
Tutorial:
-Rub the side of your chalk on the chalkboard cutout, then wipe with a paper towel.
-Write your guest’s name on the chalkboard.
-Place your evergreen clipping on top of the rolled-up napkin, then tie the twine around and secure with a simple bow.
-Now just add a charger and plate, top off with your napkins and new chalkboard place cards, and you will be prepared for all the guests this season!
Then, when your next guests are on their way over, simply wipe off your place cards and start with a clean slate.
For more ideas on how to set a table, be sure to check out this amazing post packed full of information!
How to Set a Cozy Winter Table Setting Quickly
Food and Entertaining

Recommended Articles
Food and Entertaining
4 Min. Read
The Best Places for Foodies in LA
Los Angeles is one of the cultural hubs of the West Coast. It seems like you can find a bit of every nation of the world in LA, and the same can be said…
Food and Entertaining
4 Min. Read
The Best Eco-Friendly Transportation in Denver
The beautiful city of Denver is home to some of the most aesthetically pleasing murals and museums. Being surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and nature, the city is very conscious of staying eco-friendly, so…
Food and Entertaining
3 Min. Read
The Best Places for Pets in Austin
Austin has the country’s largest no kill animal shelter, and city residents love their pets. On practically any weekend, you’re likely to see Austinites paddleboarding with their dogs on Lady Bird Lake, exploring Zilker…
Food and Entertaining
4 Min. Read
8 Hot Attractions in the Fisherman's Wharf
Known as San Francisco's #1 destination, the Fisherman's Wharf has more activities for the whole family than any other locale in the area. From the freshest seafood in San Francisco to relaxing cruises on…