Low- to medium-height centerpieces with enough space in between put balance on the table. —Photos courtesy of Robert Blancaflor Group

The dining table is the second most photographed area of a home during the holiday season. The first, of course, is the Christmas tree. It’s a very Pinoy thing to share photos of the holiday spread on Christmas Eve. Then, the pandemic also gave way to platitas, or titas who collect plates.

These platitas have been buying beautiful tableware from Dapitan, secondhand stores and department stores during the pandemic. The holiday season gives them an excuse to show off their collection.

“The table setup will be the center of everyone’s attention, so a good tablescape will set the Christmas cheer, especially for “noche buena,” said florist and stylist Robert Blancaflor (@robblancaflor on Instagram).

He suggested using consistent elements throughout the table with combined textures. Christmas greeneries such as pine, cedar and eucalyptus with candles, berries and ribbons can set the theme but he also encourages experimenting.

“Just make sure that the elements you choose harmonize with one another,” he said. Experiments can lead to original and unique ideas.

Balance

To make an arrangement aesthetically pleasing, balance is a must. Creating symmetrical or asymmetrical patterns on each end should be kept in mind when spreading elements across the table.

Exercise restraint—two to three colors are enough.

“Avoid using too many colors at once,” he said. Blancaflor puts a maximum of two to three colors in each design. He said that anything more can be overwhelming.

If you’re going for a minimalist design, using different shades of the same color will break the monotony.

“Balance with a neutralizer, such as something green or white,” he said.

Blancaflor said that centerpieces should be conversation starters, not conversation blockers. Finding the right height for the centerpieces on the table is important. This is to prevent guests from moving them aside during mealtime because they impede conversation.

Hanging foliage makes for a fuller and festive centerpiece, but make sure that it doesn’t dip into the sauces.

Low- to medium-height pieces are ideal. But if you insist on going for tall ones, make sure to give enough space in between. Blancaflor said that hanging foliage or elements creates a centerpiece that looks full or festive, but make sure that it doesn’t accidentally dip into the sauces.

Using fresh elements gives off a pleasant scent around the table, he added.

“It is unavoidable to use artificial decorations for your holiday tablescape. However, I advise you to incorporate something fresh, such as flowers, greenery or real candles,” he said.

Centerpieces take up a lot of space. Design with the plates and cutleries in mind. Glasses sparkle and the colored ones can match the flowers you choose for the table.

(More tips next week)