23 Ideas for Setting a Stunning Holiday Table Using Vintage Finds
When you think of a holiday table, you might picture the usual white linens, red napkins, and a stack of glassware. But a truly memorable table is built around creative use of vintage finds—those unique treasures that give your setting personality and history. In this post I’ll walk you through 23 different elements you can use to craft a holiday table that’s both stunning and personal. From centerpieces that spark conversation to linens that feel like a story, you’ll discover how to mix and match items from eBay, thrift stores, and your own attic to create a table that’s truly yours.
Seasonal Centerpieces
Centerpieces are the eye‑catcher of any table. A good centerpiece not only draws attention, it also sets the tone for the rest of your décor.
1. Vintage Erzgebirge Angel Choir Carousel – $104 (eBay)
These carousels spin gently, adding motion and a touch of European charm. Use one at either end of the table, or keep one on the sideboard for a second turn during the meal.
- Use as a centerpiece or sideboard accent.
- Pair with small candles or fresh greenery.
- Save to wishlist
2. Brass Angel Candleholders – $15 (eBay)
Nestle these angel‑shaped holders among your table greens and ribbons. They’re perfect for a simple candle centerpiece that will be a conversation starter.
- Fill with white or scented candles.
- Wrap with a ribbon or lace for extra flair.
- Save to wishlist
3. Swedish Gävle Goat – $27 (eBay)
These traditional goats are great guardians of an unlit fireplace. They add a rustic touch that’s perfect for a cozy holiday feel.
- Place in the center or on the side of the table.
- Pair with a small pot of herbs or a sprig of pine.
- Save to wishlist
4. Vintage Crystal Chandelier – $85 (eBay)
A crystal chandelier hanging over the table adds elegance and depth. The light will bounce off the crystals and create a warm glow.
- Position in the center or above the table for a dramatic effect.
- Hang a few small votive candles to complement the chandelier.
- Save to wishlist
Table Linens
Table linens are the canvas on which all other elements sit. A good linen not only holds the table together but also adds texture and color.
5. 1930’s Baskets Quilt Top – $265 (eBay)
Take a cue from Gloria Vanderbilt and use a quilt top as a tablecloth. The unfinished design gives a more even surface that looks amazing with red plates.
- Layer over a white or colored base.
- Match with a complementary napkin color.
- Save to wishlist
6. Vintage 62” Crochet Tablecloth – $25 (eBay)
The crochet design looks like snowflakes. Drape it over a white table or layer it over a colored fabric for extra depth.
- Use a light color to let the snowflake pattern show.
- Secure with a decorative ribbon.
- Save to wishlist
7. Vintage Ceramic Tile Runner – $45 (eBay)
For a more rustic vibe, use a ceramic tile runnerKY. It’s perfect for a wooden or wooden‑metal table and adds a subtle pattern that’s easy to mix with other vintage items.
- Run along the length of the table.
- Pair with a small vase of flowers at the end.
- Save to wishlist
Place Settings
Place settings bring the table to life. With the right plates, glasses, and utensils, you’ll have a table that’s not only functional but also visually striking.
8. Royal Copenhagen 1926 Christmas Plate – $60 (eBay)
These plates are perfect for a “little‑talk” element that will be a conversation starter.
- Use as a top plate for a centerpiece.
- Pair with a set of matching napkins.
- Save to wishlist
9. Royal Copenhagen Ribbed Dinner Plates – $70 (eBay)
Use these ribbed plates for a classic look. They’re sturdy and can be used as a base for your centerpiece.
- Place on the table and fill with a small candle.
- Wrap with a ribbon for a cohesive look.
- Save to wishlist
10. Brownhills Staffordshire ABC Jack & Jill Plate – $120 (eBay)
These whimsical plates add a playful touch to your table. They’re perfect for a “Jack & Jill” themed table.
- Place them at the table’s corners for a charming effect.
- Use them with matching glassware.
- Save to wishlist
11. Vintage Fitz & Floyd “Le Puss” Plates – $78 (eBay)
These “Le Puss” plates are unique and add a touch of personality to your table.
- Use as a base plate for your centerpiece.
- Pair with a small vase of fresh flowers.
- Save to wishlist
12. Sèvres Antique Porcelain Plates – $90 (eBay)
Antique porcelain gives your table a refined look. Use these plates for a classic holiday vibe.
- Place on the table and fill with a candle or a small bouquet.
- Secure with a decorative ribbon.
- Save to wishlist
Place Settings
Place settings are the final touch that ties everything together. They’re the “glue” that holds your table’s elements in place and gives your table a polished look.
13. French Monogrammed Napkins – $12 (eBay)
Use these to add a personal touch to your table. The monogram adds a classic and elegant feel.
- Fold napkins into a fan shape.
- Wrap with a silk ribbon for a cohesive look.
- Save to wishlist
14. Silk Ribbon – $8 (eBay)
A simple silk ribbon is a versatile element that can be used to tie together all other elements on your table.
- Wrap around the center of the table or the edges.
- Use a complementary color to your napkins.
- Save to wishlist
15. Vintage Hand‑Painted Glasses – $55 (eBay)
Use these glasses for a refined, vintage look. They’re perfect for a “little‑talk” element that will be a conversation starter.
- Place on the table and fill with a small candle.
- Wrap with a ribbon or lace for extra flair.
- Save to wishlist
16. Vintage Crystal Candlestick Set – $35 (eBay)
A set of crystal candlesticks adds depth and elegance to your table. They’re perfect for a simple candle centerpiece that will be a conversation starter.
- Fill with white or scented candles.
- Wrap with a ribbon or lace for extra flair.
- Save to wishlist
17. Vintage Silverware Set – $120 (eBay)
A set of vintage silverware adds texture and depth to your table. Use it for a more refined look that’s perfect for a holiday meal.
- Place on the table and fill with a small candle.
- Wrap with a ribbon or lace for extra flair.
- Save to wishlist
18. Vintage Glass Bottle Centerpiece – $30 (eBay)
Use a vintage glass bottle as a centerpiece to add a rustic touch. Fill it with a small pot of herbs or a sprig of pine.
- Place in the center or on the side of the table.
- Wrap with a ribbon or lace for extra flair.
- Save to wishlist
Accessories & Extras
Accessories are the final touch that ties everything together. They’re the small details that give your table personality and depth.
19. A. Michelsen Sterling Silver Christmas Spoons – $22 (eBay)
Use these spoons to add a touch of vintage charm to your table. They’re perfect for a simple candle centerpiece that will be a conversation starter.
- Use as a centerpiece or sideboard accent.
- Pair with small candles or fresh greenery.
- Save to wishlist
20. Bo Strom Vintage Wooden Figurine – $18 (eBay)
These figurines are great guardians of an unlit fireplace. They add a rustic touch that’s perfect for a cozy holiday feel.
- Place in the center or on the side of the table.
- Pair with a small pot of herbs or a sprig of pine.
- Save to wishlist
21. Einar Nerman Vintage Swedish Postcard – $14 (eBay)
Use this postcard as a place‑setting card that will be a conversation starter. It’s perfect for a small, vintage touch that’s personal and unique.
- Place on the table and fill with a small candle.
- Wrap with a ribbon or lace for extra flair.
- Save to wishlist
22. West Germany Vintage Heart‑Shaped Glass Ornaments – $12 (eBay)
These ornaments are great guardians of an unlit fireplace. They add a rustic touch that’s perfect for a cozy holiday feel.
- Place in the center or on the side of the table.
- Pair with a small pot of herbs or a sprig of pine.
- Save to wishlist
23. Levi & Salaman Silver Shoe Pin Cushion – $20 (eBay)
Use these pin cushions as a small, vintage touch that’s personal and unique. They’re perfect for a simple candle centerpiece that will be a conversation starter.
- Place in the center or on the side of the table.
- Pair with a small pot of herbs or a sprig of pine.
- Save to wishlist
Conclusion
With these 23 vintage finds, you now have a complete roadmap for creating a holiday table that’s both stunning and personal. Mix and match centerpieces, linens, place settings, and accessories to create a table that’s uniquely yours. The key is to keep the table cohesive and to let your personality shine through each element. I hope you find these ideas inspiring and that they help you build a holiday table that’s truly unforgettable.
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