The holidays are almost here, and you know what that means – it's time to gather around the table with the people we love! Creating beautiful holiday tablescapes doesn't have to be complicated or stressful. In fact, some of my favorite tables are the ones that feel warm and inviting rather than overly fussy. Let me share some of my go-to tips for setting a table that'll have your guests talking (in the best way!) long after dessert.

Start with a Strong Foundation

Before you bring out the fancy china, think about your base layers. A beautiful tablecloth or runner sets the tone for everything else. I love using rich, textured fabrics during the holidays – think velvet, linen, or even a subtle metallic weave. Don't be afraid to layer! A runner over a tablecloth adds depth and interest without overwhelming your table. And other times, a simple runner looks best - no tablecloth needed! It's all a matter of personal choice. 

Layer Your Holiday Tablescapes for Visual Interest

Here's where the magic happens. Layering is the secret to creating tables that look professionally designed. Start with your chargers, add dinner plates, then salad plates. Mix metals and textures – a brass charger with white china and a linen napkin creates that perfect balance of elegant and approachable. And please, don't stress about everything matching perfectly! Some of the most beautiful tables I've designed mix patterns and pieces with intention. And don't be afraid to think outside the box. The color box, that is. Red, green, and gold aren't the only colors you can use around the holiday. You can go light and bright, or dark and moody. It's up to you! 

Light It Up

Lighting transforms everything, and your holiday table is no exception. Candles are my absolute favorite – they create an instant sense of warmth and intimacy. Vary the heights with taper candles, votives, and pillars. Just remember to keep them unscented if you're serving food (you want to smell that delicious meal, not competing fragrances!). String lights woven through a greenery garland can add a subtle sparkle that feels magical without being over the top.

Create a Show-Stopping Centerpiece

Your centerpiece should be beautiful but not so tall that guests can't see each other across the table. I love using natural elements this time of year – fresh greenery, pinecones, seasonal fruits like pomegranates or pears, and even vegetables like mini pumpkins or artichokes. Keep it low and lush, or go for multiple smaller arrangements down the length of your table. Fresh flowers are always gorgeous, but don't overlook the beauty of simple eucalyptus or magnolia branches.

The Power of Personal Touches

This is where you make your table uniquely yours! Place cards show thoughtfulness and help with seating arrangements. I love adding a small favor at each place setting – maybe a sprig of rosemary tied with ribbon, a handwritten note of gratitude, or even a small ornament guests can take home. These little details show your guests how much you care and create those memorable moments we all cherish.

Don't Forget the Details

Beautiful napkins (cloth, please – it's worth the extra laundry!), polished silverware, and sparkling glassware make all the difference. If you're serving wine, make sure you have the right glasses. And here's a practical tip: set your table the day before if you can. It's one less thing to worry about on the big day, and you can adjust anything that doesn't look quite right.

Make It Your Own

The most important thing about creating holiday tablescapes? They should reflect your personal style and make you happy! Whether you love traditional reds and greens, prefer a modern all-white palette, or want to incorporate family heirlooms, let your personality shine through. Your guests aren't coming for a museum exhibit – they're coming to spend time with you.

Remember, the most beautiful table is one where everyone feels welcome and comfortable. So yes, make it lovely, but don't forget to actually enjoy the gathering yourself. After all, that's what the holidays are really about – connection, gratitude, and making memories around the table with the people who matter most.

Do you need help making your decorating dreams a reality? Contact me at Soho Interior Design, and let's create something beautiful together. You can reach me by calling me at (407) 743-2399 or emailing me at carmen@sohointeriordesign.com. for a free consultation. 

The holidays are approaching, and you know what that means—family and friends will soon be knocking on your door, suitcases in hand! But here's the million-dollar question: where exactly will everyone sleep? If you're nodding along thinking, "Good question!" then you're in excellent company. The truth is, most of us don't have a pristine, Pinterest-perfect guest room just waiting for visitors. Instead, we need clever guest bedroom ideas that work with real homes and real spaces.

The good news? Creating a welcoming sleep space doesn't require a dedicated room or a massive budget. With some thoughtful planning and the right furniture pieces, you can transform almost any area into a cozy retreat that'll have your guests raving about their stay.

The Multi-Tasking Marvel: Office by Day, Guest Bedroom by Night

Let's be honest—that home office has been working overtime since 2020. But with a few strategic pieces, it can pull double duty as a welcoming guest space. The secret weapon? A Murphy bed that disappears into a sleek cabinet when not in use. During work hours, you have a fully functional office. When guests arrive, simply fold down the bed, and voilà—instant guest quarters!

Small Space, Big Hospitality with Smart Guest Bedroom Ideas

Working with a tiny room? Don't panic! Some of the most memorable guest experiences happen in compact, thoughtfully designed spaces. A daybed with a pull-out trundle is your best friend here. During the day, it takes up no more space than a single sofa. But when bedtime rolls around, that hidden trundle slides out to accommodate a second guest—it's like magic, but better because it's real!

The key is choosing pieces that feel intentional, not makeshift. Look for daybeds with sophisticated details like tufted upholstery or clean-lined wooden frames. Your guests should feel like they're staying in a boutique hotel, not camping out on furniture that clearly belongs somewhere else.

The Art of the Convertible: Furniture That Works Overtime

Today's convertible furniture has come a long way from those clunky futons of decades past. Modern sofa beds and convertible desks are designed with both style and comfort in mind. Some of the most impressive pieces can transition from a work surface to a comfortable sleeping space in mere minutes.

When shopping for convertible pieces, prioritize quality over price. A well-made daybed or Murphy bed will serve you beautifully for years, while a cheaper alternative might leave your guests (and your back) regretting the investment.

Creating Atmosphere in Unexpected Guest Bedroom Ideas

Here's where the magic really happens—turning a multi-purpose space into a place where guests genuinely want to spend time. Start with lighting that can adapt to different needs. Table lamps provide warm, welcoming ambiance for evening relaxation, while good task lighting ensures your office space remains functional.

Layer in textiles that feel luxurious: a soft throw draped over the daybed, quality sheets that feel amazing against the skin, and pillows that actually support a good night's sleep. These details signal to guests that you've thought about their comfort, not just found them a place to crash.

Storage Solutions That Keep Everyone Happy

Nothing ruins the guest experience quite like searching for a place to put their belongings. Built-in storage solutions—like daybeds with drawers or Murphy beds with integrated shelving—keep guest essentials organized and easily accessible.

Create a dedicated space for their suitcase, whether it's a vintage luggage rack or simply a clear corner of the room. Small touches like hooks for hanging clothes or a side table for personal items show thoughtfulness that guests will appreciate.

Making It Feel Like Home

The most successful guest spaces feel purposeful, not like an afterthought. Choose a cohesive color palette that flows with the rest of your home. Add personal touches that reflect your style—a beautiful piece of artwork, fresh flowers, or carefully chosen accessories.

Remember, your guests aren't expecting the Ritz-Carlton (though they wouldn't complain!). They want to feel welcomed, comfortable, and cared for. With these smart guest bedroom ideas, you can create exactly that experience, no matter how much space you're working with.

Ready to transform your space for the holidays? Start with one key piece—a quality daybed or Murphy bed—and build from there. Your future guests will thank you! 

Do you need help getting your home guest-ready? You can reach me by calling me at (407) 743-2399 or emailing me at carmen@sohointeriordesign.com. for a free consultation. 

The 2023 holiday season was a good one for Christmas tree decorating this year and quite the whirlwind! I've got a handful of photos to share with you of some of the decorating done for some of my holiday decorating clients.

Let's talk about holiday decorating for your own home or business (or both) for this upcoming 2024 fall holiday season. I always encourage people to book early – and even though we're at the start of the year, I can pencil you in for later this fall, so let me know if you're interested.

Below, you'll see photos from some of my Christmas decorating this season, including creations for Corcoran Premier Realty at the Festival of Trees event, Melbourne Junior League, Orlando Infiniti, the Jaguar Land Rover dealership, a private residence...and even the tear-down crew!

And just a good note on the Festival of Trees: we had a very successful event with over 13,000 attendees, 1,000 more than last year! And that is very good news because money raised from the event ultimately supports the arts and art education at the Orlando Museum of Art.

If you'd like me to do some holiday decorating for your home or business, consider booking with me (the earlier the better) for 2024 holiday decorating. And remember, it doesn't have to be just Christmas. Many clients like to have something that starts in the fall, transitioning to Thanksgiving, and then beyond, to Christmas. You'll definitely get holiday decorating done right by my team and I.

Choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.