Two things I love: all things holiday and show-stopping tablescapes. So, I jump at the chance when I get to combine the two. Here are three simple ways you can add a little spark to your seasonal tablescape.

Don’t Be Predictable

Rather than reach for your typical flatware, take a chance and mix up vintage and modern touches, which immediately add visual interest and create a fun, whimsical vibe.

Intentionally break rules by mixing formal dinner plates with a casual patriotic red salad plate. To further contrast a more dignified style, add jute placemats and casual indigo blue drinkware. Jute placemats, often seen on outdoor patio tables, also serve as a nod to summertime.

Add Playful Touches

Not only will your kids appreciate this, but so will the kid-at-heart in you! Cut white wooden stars from an inexpensive garland to serve as the focal point of the place setting. These could easily double as a name place card or they could be attached to a plain napkin holder.

Another easy yet impactful addition: cupcakes. Having the dessert sitting out at the table adds an element of fun. I almost always use cupcake holders when I create a tablescape. Whether they’re tall, covered glass domes (as pictured), or even small white ceramic ones you snag in the Target dollar section, they add anticipation for that post-dinner treat.

Get Creative With a Cake Stand

I’m a big believer in using cake stands for a plethora of reasons outside of displaying dessert. They add great dimension to tablescapes when you set items of varying heights on top of them. Plus, most people already have at least one on hand.

I added a bottle of French lemonade, a striped canister, and a bowl of red and blue candy-coated raspberries to my stand to serve as a bold accent for the centerpiece.