The holidays are the ultimate moment to showcase your tablescaping prowess and menu planning expertise. It can be stressful though, especially if entertaining isn’t your comfort zone. Toronto-based lifestyle expert Nadia Colella is just the person to teach you all about throwing stylish celebrations at home.
Colella is a celebrated pastry artist and painter who is loved for her exquisite, old-world aesthetic. She has evolved her business into Nadia Colella Living, chic brand focused on home décor and all the things you need to plan a fashionable party. According to Colella, when it comes to holiday gatherings, before you even begin to think about food, beverage, and table settings, consider the foundation of great entertaining: creating memories.
“With holiday entertaining in particular, this is really what it’s all about,” Colella shares. “The moments you make are as important as the food or the décor. The best gatherings are warm, relaxed and filled with joy. It’s not about perfection, it’s about connection. Think about the flow of the evening: music that sets a subtle tone, lighting that feels cozy, and moments that allow conversation and laughter to happen naturally.”
As Colella sees it, the secret to holiday entertaining is presence. “Being fully there with your guests, savouring the food, enjoying the stories, and soaking up the company is what makes a celebration truly magical,” she explains. “Everything else will naturally fall into place.”
As easy as this sounds, if entertaining isn’t something you don’t do on the regular, it can be stressful. To help you pull off seasonal celebrations with aplomb, we asked Colella for her thoughts on trending tablescapes and how to effortlessly create them, how you can overcome your fear of company coming, and the one thing you should never forget if you are a dinner party guest. —Alison McGill
What are your top tablescape trends this holiday season?
“There are a few I love. The first is one I am calling ‘Heritage Holiday’ which is very Ralph Lauren-inspired. We’re seeing a return to classic, old-world holiday charm with tones of forest green, deep navy, burgundy, tartan, and vintage silver. It’s that beautifully layered, slightly nostalgic heritage look that feels both luxurious and lived in. Another vibe I love leans into texture-heavy cozy romance which is brimming with tactile richness. Think embroidered edges, velvet ribbons, heavy candles, hand-thrown ceramics. Texture brings intimacy to a table. The last one is focused on organic simplicity and natural greenery. There’s something timeless about bringing nature to the table; loose sprigs of cedar or pine, simple branches, fruit, or fresh herbs tucked between place settings. The beauty is in the quiet restraint.”
What’s the secret to setting a beautiful table?
“It’s exactly like getting dressed. Focus on balance, visual interest, and a touch of whimsy. Anchor pieces like a statement tablecloth or heirloom serving ware give the table structure, while accessories including candles, flowers, seasonal fruits, or even a small favour for each guest, bring it to life. Mixing patterns, layering textures, and playing with colour is where the magic happens. Don’t be afraid of imperfection because the most inviting tables feel comfortable and a little romantic. Also, nothing sets the tone better than candlelight. It’s just dim enough for a warm glow, and bright enough to see your feast. These thoughtful touches transform a table into a space where stories, laughter, and memories naturally unfold.”
If the thought of entertaining makes you nervous, how can you overcome your fears?
“Start small. Invite one or two people you truly feel comfortable with and build from there. Hosting becomes so much easier when you remove the pressure. Remember, people aren’t coming for a perfect dinner. They’re coming for you, your warmth, your home, the ambiance you create.
Once you realize hosting is about connection rather than performance, it becomes enjoyable. Another big tip: pre-prep will take away your fears. I go for dishes which can be prepared in advance. When planning the menu, I love diving into my favourite cookbooks or pulling inspiration from my travels. A few weeks before, I map out what I’ll make, create an ingredient list, and put together a work-back plan so I feel calm heading into the holiday week. Also, set your table the night before—you’ll thank me later.”
If you are invited to be a guest at a gathering, why is a gift for the host a non-negotiable?
“A gift for the host is a small but very meaningful gesture. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; it just has to feel sincere. This is your way of saying thank you for opening your home and creating space for the gathering. My favourite ideas? Gifting beautiful linens like a set of cocktail napkins or a tea towel always feels thoughtful and timeless. A small jar of something homemade— jam, spiced nuts, or a favourite confection. A candle or matches wrapped in pretty packaging. And wine or bubbles are always a great idea.”
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