Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Nonci Nyoni
While the Northern Hemisphere dreams of snow, we’re setting tables poolside, surrounded by lush gardens and warm breezes. For those who love to entertain with style, this season is all about elevating tradition with a fresh, contemporary twist. Think crisp green and white palettes that nod to heritage, layered with bold stripes, shimmering metallics and sparkling glassware for that festive edge.
It’s the perfect backdrop for long lunches that stretch into golden evenings, where conversation flows as freely as the champagne. Whether you’re reinventing heirloom pieces or adding playful pops of colour, the key is effortless elegance – a look that feels curated yet relaxed.
Ready to inspire your next celebration? Here’s how to create a chic outdoor setting that captures the spirit of Christmas and the beauty of an Australian summer.
“Choose a theme for your festive celebration,” says Home Beautiful editor-in-chief Elle Lovelock. Colour is a strong driver to bring a whole look together. “Green and white nods to tradition, but here we’ve elevated the palette to suit a contemporary setting – bold striped outdoor chair cushions lend a chic poolhouse feel, while shimmering metallics and gleaming crystal add the festive sparkle needed to mark a celebration.”
“Consider all five senses when creating your table setting and environment,” says stylist Nonci Nyoni. “Curate an inviting atmosphere that your guests will want to spend time in – candles or flowers for scent and visual interest, background music and lush fabrics of varied textures for touch and of course, a tasty meal!”
“Use objects of various height’s to add interest to the tablescape – lamps or candles for height paired with shorter vases, glassware and decorative bowls,” says stylist Nonci Nyoni.
“My mum just loves this the green and white setting, she has green plates but has been inspired to go out and buy another dinner set to style up with them.”
Elle Lovelock, Home Beautiful editor in chief
Nonci suggests personalising each plate setting with handwritten name cards, “To make them feel extra special this festive season!” Elle agrees. “Reinvent your vintage homewares like plates and napery by mixing and matching with more modern pieces,” says Elle. “Extend the season’s treats to each place setting with individual chocolate gifts for everyone. Each year we wait with bated breath to discover the bonbon offerings from our favourite brands. These are another festive addition to the table with colour, pattern and texture.
“Heirloom plates play nicely with pops of coloured glass and fun décor pieces.”
Elle Lovelock
Nothing says summer sophistication quite like fresh flowers. “Blousy white roses are always a good idea,” says Elle. “Garden roses are in full bloom at this time of year and you can buy them by the bucketload at market – a surefire way to add elegance to any occasion.” Cluster them in simple glass vases for a relaxed look or pair with silver accents for a touch of glamour. Whether scattered along a long lunch table or arranged in generous bunches, seasonal blooms add instant elegance and a sense of occasion that feels both timeless and fresh.
Beyond the table, consider editing the decor in your entertaining spaces to reflect your chosen theme. Ditch cushions that don’t match, take the plunge to invest in new outdoor furniture cushions, outdoor rugs or umbrellas.
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