dare to ... entertain

so this week over at the newlywoodwards my friend kim dared us to entertain. she wants to see our tables! i don't host any major holiday dinners, so i thought i would show a few ideas for table settings for two. which, of course, could be multiplied by any number of people.

this little table and built-in bench is in my kitchen. i cleared the decks, and started gathering! (and yes ... i'm going with christmas themes. it's been christmas around here since the first of november.)

first up is a fun take on the traditional red and green. i got these amazing glitter houses and trees at wal-mart for a buck! score! i used them in my dining room for a display (which i'll show you another time). i'm a big fan of all things glittery!

paired with fiestaware, place mats from the gift shoppe and my glitter trees ... i think it looks pretty darn festive and fun!

next up is a bit of rustic glamour! burlap makes a quick table cloth (great minds think alike - kim used a burlap piece in her table setting!). a twig star painted red adds some holiday cheer.

hobnail mercury glass and glittery pine adds sparkle and glamour! i love the mix of rustic and glamour.

and for the third and final setting .... {thrifty} holiday elegance.

you remember the tree i painted white. i also found this metal candelabra at goodwill for a buck which i painted white and topped it with some vintage red glass ornaments (also from goodwill) instead of candles.

no tablecloth necessary with these beautiful ivory, gold and red place mats.

and a few cupcakes under glass cloches complete the look.

i hope you enjoyed my settings. do you have a favorite? if you want to see more amazing table settings, be sure to head over to newlywoodwards. have a table setting of your own? be sure to link it up!