Posted by Tastefully Simple on December 12, 2025
Simple Touches for Holiday Magic
The holidays are all about coming together – sharing delicious food, laughter and those extra touches that make the season shine. Whether you’re hosting a big family feast or an intimate dinner for two, a few creative details can turn your table into a warm, memorable celebration.
Tastefully Simple is here to help you sprinkle in a little magic – from easy garnishing ideas to charming table settings.
Garnish with Holiday Cheer
A beautiful dish deserves a beautiful finish. Here are a few simple, festive ways to dress up your holiday favorites:
- Cranberry Sparkle: Add a pop of red to savory dishes with a few sugared cranberries or pomegranate seeds. They’re eye-catching and perfectly seasonal.
- Herb Wreaths: Use sprigs of rosemary or thyme to create mini “wreaths” that sit atop your mashed potatoes, casseroles or appetizer platters. Use fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds as ornaments on your wreath.
- Golden Glow: A light drizzle of Roasted Garlic Avocado Oil mixed with edible gold dust or flaky sea salt adds sparkle to roasted vegetables or meat dishes.
- Sweet Touch: Garnish desserts with crushed peppermint candy, shaved chocolate or a dusting of cinnamon sugar for instant holiday flair.
Pro Tip: If you’re serving Tastefully Simple’s Absolutely Almond Pound Cake Mix™, transfer slices to festive dishes, top with Oh My! Chai® whipped cream and then add one of these sweet garnishes for a made-from-scratch look in minutes!
Set the Table with Simple Elegance
Your table doesn’t need to be over-the-top elaborate to feel special. Try these easy tricks:
- Natural Accents: Place a small pinecone or sprig of evergreen on each napkin, tied with twine or ribbon.
- Layered Textures: Mix and match cloth napkins, placemats and metallic flatware for a cozy-yet-refined feel. Have fun with colors and mixed patterns.
- Light the Way: Cluster candles of different heights down the center of your table on narrow trays or plates. The glow adds instant warmth and makes your food look even more appetizing.
DIY Centerpiece in 10 Minutes
No florist? No problem! Gather what you have around the house for a charming and eye-catching centerpiece:
- Fill a shallow bowl or tray with fresh greenery, pinecones and ornaments.
- Nestle in a few candles (battery-powered if you prefer).
- Add dried citrus slices or cinnamon sticks for a touch of color and scent.
You’ll have a centerpiece that looks and smells amazing – with zero stress.
Celebrate Simplicity
The holidays don’t have to be complicated to be beautiful. With a little creativity you can create a festive, welcoming table that’s all your own.
So this season, focus on what really matters … good food, good company and good cheer.
