If, like me, you're taking a moment to pause and reset following the Christmas excess you'll appreciate some lighter, fresher and simpler to pull together table settings. You might still be working on your New Year table decor ideas, but come January, it will be all about more pared back gatherings and quite dinners for two.
While I was craving inspiration for an antidote to the festive excesses, I scrolled upon Joanna Gaines' video where she creates the most elegant and subtly styled table for two. She might have been looking ahead to Valentine's Day, for this gently romantic setting, but it stopped me in my scrolling tracks, as it brought an instant feeling of calm and composure that I've been missing in the rather hectic run-up to the festive season.
Watch Joanna Gaines' Elegant Table For Two Video
Now that Christmas is over for another year, I'll be taking a leaf from Joanna's book with elegant 'less-is-more' table settings, starting with a rustic, bare table look that she used for her fall table settings.
Next, she opts for a full vase of blousy peach roses as a simple centerpiece idea, using just a large rustic black handmade vase from her Magnolia collection. If you can't get your hands on real blooms or the garden is looking a little barren mid-winter, these real-touch ranunculus blooms from Magnolia will bring a welcome splash of color.
Next, she adds a pair of her antique brass Gatecrest candlesticks for height and interest with some plain ivory taper candles, followed by her Magnolia Amelia round placemats, which are proof that the rattan tableware trend isn't going anywhere.
For the dinnerware, Joanna taps into the best scalloped decor from Magnolia – another key trend from 2025 that we predict will still be going strong in the New Year. Here she layers up her scalloped plates with some soft pink linen napkins (dawn rose napkins from Magnolia). She finishes the look with some beautiful etched glass tumblers and some vintage flatware for just the right amount of rustic elegance.
Shop Joanna Gaines' Pared-Back Table For Two Look
Joanna fills this sculptural black vase with delicate pink roses for the ultimate contrast and it works so beautifully on her pared-back table for two.
If you're struggling to find natural color in the garden at this time of year, there's no shame in going for faux bloom, especially when they're as gorgeous as these.
Emulating the look of hand-forged metalwork, these tall taper candle holders make a statement while blending seamlessly with a range of decor styles.
These go-with-everything placemats are perfect for everything from a rustic winter feast to a light summer supper, woven from natural sisal in Indonesia.
Surprisingly, this delicate looking dinnerware is both microwave and dishwasher safe, meaning you don't have to keep it stowed away for special occasions only.
The delicate floral etchings gently elevate these glasses from regular drinking tumblers to something a little more special – plus they come in two different sizes.
Whatever your plans for the New Year, it's these simple lifestyle tweaks that can really spark joy and lift the mood in the darker months. For more uplifting ideas, take a look at our dopamine menu for home lovers for more intentional and inspirational ideas.
