Make It Merry & Bright

Get inspired by this graphic take on a classic red-and-white theme. You can rent brightly hued Chiavari chairs to provide a luxe pop of color that's fit for the season. Meet the Hostess: Kimberly Schlegel Whitman

• Source Guide
• Rug: Ellipse in Black/White by Stark (stark-home.com) available through DCH; 713/961-9292
• Chairs: Chiavari Chairs in Chiavari Red; poshcouturerentals.com
• Red trees: Red Colored Artificial Christmas Trees; christmascentral.com

Top a white tablecloth with red ribbons cleverly laid in a spokelike pattern to mimic peppermint candy. It will accent your holiday china without distracting.

• Source Guide:
  Chargers: For a similar look, try Glory Red Glass Charger Plates by Jay Imports; macys.com
• Dinner plates: Grenadiers by Bernardaud; neimanmarcus.com
• Flatware: Aria; christofle.com
• Napkins: Red Satin Dinner Napkins; poshcouturerentals.com
• Napkin rings: vintage Venetian glass; for a similar look, try Ravi Gold Napkin Rings; crateandbarrel.com
• Wineglasses: For a similar look, try Double Red Twist Goblet Set; pier1.com

For the centerpiece, place a low bowl of roses in a larger bowl and fill in between with mints.

Source Guide
Centerpiece bowl: Blomster; ikea.com

A gingerbread house trimmed in red and white candies gives a touch of whimsy to a sophisticated setting. For extra height, display it on a cake stand.

Source Guide
Cake plate: Victoria Cake Plateau by Two's Company (ecommerce.twoscompany.com); amazon.com

Secure three mini candy canes with double-sided tape to make easels for place cards.

Treat guests to a grab-and-go candy buffet stocked with an assortment of peppermints. Dress take-out boxes with printable tags.

Source Guide
Favor tags: printable Sweet Christmas Candy Cane Striped Favor Labels; andersruff.com