5 tips to make your tablescape look as festive as the one Sonam Kapoor arranged for a recent special dinner

The holiday season is the time to enjoy with your loved ones and make warm, fuzzy memories over scrumptious food and delightful chatter. And there’s no better way to elevate the experience than by curating a table that becomes a part of the conversation.

Before we dive in, did you notice Sonam Kapoor’s tablescape for the dinner she hosted for the top executives of Architectural Digest? It’s quite the cue for how one can transform a space and give it their own personal style. After all, entertaining is no longer just about eating; it’s about creating an atmosphere, sharing stories, and making an awe-worthy impression.

A beautifully set table is more than just forks and plates, it sets the tone for celebration and creates a fabulous impression on your guests. Sharing his thoughts with Moneycontrol, Sidhant Lamba, Founder of STRROT, said, “Tablescaping is an art form where great design meets genuine emotion.”

Also read | Table decor tips: How to style your dining table to blend functionality with storytelling

And if you’re wondering how to level up your table game, here are five easy, chic tips suggested by Lamba to help you…

Get the basics right

It’s best to start with the basics, such as table linens, which can help create a mood. “Think of the tablecloth area as your painting canvas. Instead of just grabbing a plain old cloth, try bringing in some texture — maybe use washed linen for that relaxed, elegant vibe, raw cotton if you want a natural charm, woven cane for a cozy, earthy feel, or even just a skinny marble or wooden runner for something modern and high-end.” This will lend your table a personality and make it look thoughtfully curated, not just basic.

Balance luxury with natural warmth

A well-styled table should strike a balance between feeling totally luxurious and completely comfortable. “Try matching things like sleek, sculptural Italian candle holders or bright metallic vases with down-to-earth elements. Think rattan placemats, dried palm leaves, or simple bamboo trays. This mix of high-end polish and organic textures is exactly what captures a distinct look: global sophistication with a soulful, natural warmth,” he said.

Also read | Quirky décor trend: How playful statement pieces are transforming modern Indian homes

Layer your tableware

As they say, the god lies in the details. Make your tableware shine brighter by adding tiny accents like cool ceramic bowls, brass figurines, textured votives, or some of those handcrafted art pieces from the decor collection. According to Lamba, these little items instantly make your table feel personal, thoughtful, and full of genuine character.

Add a little drama with placement

You can play around with tall candles, plates stacked in layers, tiered serving stands, and placing things slightly off-centre. This shift in height and position creates a natural flow, making you notice everything that’s laid on the table. “Stylists should always aim for depth, a bit of drama, but also total practicality—it needs to be beautiful, yet completely usable,” he said.

Set the mood with light

It’s the light that helps light up the ambience like nothing else. According to him, always go for soft candlelight, tea lights, or small accent lamps to bring in instant warmth, intimacy, and that gentle glow.

Additionally, fresh floral vases with branches and stems can be added for a layered look. Even garland drapes bring more drama, flow, and abundance to the table. Eventually, a tablescape shouldn’t be about perfection but more about evoking a sense of warmth and love. It’s layered, personal, super inviting, and full of soul. When you style it with genuine thought, your table stops being just a place to eat and starts becoming a memorable moment.