Setting a warm Christmas Eve table

On Christmas Eve, everyone stays at the table for a long time. So it might as well be lovely to look at, without stopping anyone from seeing the guests opposite or putting the dishes down.

Start from a simple base

A plain tablecloth, in white, cream or natural linen, then a table runner down the middle to bring in pattern and colour. A runner has one big advantage: it marks out the decorated area and leaves the sides free for the plates.

Greenery in the centre

A pine garland laid flat along the runner makes an instant centrepiece. Tuck in a few pine cones, some eucalyptus sprigs or clementines, and it already looks beautiful. Remember to keep it low: above 25 cm, you can no longer see the person opposite.

Candlelight, without the risk

Nothing beats candlelight on a table. With children, long sleeves and paper napkins around, flickering LED candles take away any worry. Placed in glasses or tealight holders, you can't tell the difference. Then dim the ceiling light: that's what really creates the atmosphere.

A little detail for each guest

A sprig of rosemary tied with string on each napkin, a name handwritten on a kraft paper tag, a clementine on the plate. These are the details guests remember, and they cost next to nothing.

What to avoid

• Tall, large arrangements in the middle of the table.
• Scented candles at the table: they clash with the smell of the food.
• Too many colours: stick to the ones on your tree so everything ties together.