I am always inspired by the Cheltenham Literature Festival, and this year I was lucky enough to hear Nina Campbell, doyen of interior design, talking about her life in design and her love of ‘tabletops’.

Listening to her made me think of how I create a dining table. It really doesn’t have to be time consuming or expensive to be stylish. If, like me, Christmas is a very special time for you when friends and family come together, there is nothing more fun than setting the table for Christmas dinner. Make yours a focal point and dine in style this festive season.

Set the mood

Start by picking a theme, be it Scandi simplicity, traditional, glamorous or country style – use Instagram or Pinterest for inspiration. Follow through with your table colour scheme – white and pale, red and green, silver and gold, green and natural – it’s up to you.

Buy proper napkins if possible, as they do make a difference. A friend bought some beautiful white Irish damask linen ones especially for Christmas – they look so chic tied with silver ribbon.

The perfect centrepiece

I always make my own table centre. A florist friend showed me how and it really isn’t difficult – you just need a plant pot painted to match your scheme, some Oasis, moss and a votive candle. Gather foliage from your garden, sprigs of evergreen like ivy or holly. Add flowers to match your chosen theme (I love simple white roses with lots of greenery) or nuts and fruits sprayed silver or gold. Get creative!

Add some sparkle

Coloured glasses are a must for a Christmas table. I always remember the cranberry and emerald coloured wine glasses that came out every Christmas at my parent’s home. This year, bottle green glasses are trending, and champagne coupes are back.

Gold edged wine glasses add a touch of glamour and mismatched antique ones add sparkle. You can find multi-coloured drinking glasses at Habitat. I have swirly white and green ones from Daylesford, or check out your local supermarket or charity shop.

Create an atmosphere

Candlelight always creates a magical glow; candelabra are having a bit of a moment, especially for a contemporary Scandi style setting. Tealights in silvery holders add glamour – The White Company is a good source for these. Their black dinner candlesticks would make a real style statement matched with all white tableware and simple greenery.

Add a personal touch

Why not put a smile on your guests’ faces with an element of surprise? It is those individual elements that make a difference. Search out quirky napkin rings, little birds or reindeer are fun.

Personalise place settings with handwritten place names and napkins wrapped with simple twine and sprigs of herbs, or make your own colour-themed crackers.

Make your Christmas Day this year an occasion to remember. Don’t forget to take some time out for yourself to enjoy that festive glass of bubbly – you deserve it!