Sweet and Simple Christmas Dessert Table Ideas

There’s something about a dessert table at Christmas that just pulls everyone in. I always notice people drifting back to it — chatting, nibbling, picking out favourites. So I like making it feel a little special. Nothing complicated. Just warm, festive and welcoming.

Here’s how I usually put one together at home, using a few of the pieces we already love at Villa Contessa.

Start with Something Festive Underneath

I normally begin with a runner. It sets the mood straight away. If I’m going for a classic look, I use the Christmas Wreath Table Runner. The embroidered wreaths feel very traditional in the nicest way.

When I want something a little more playful, I reach for the Christmas Deer Table Runner instead. The red reindeers running down the centre feel cheerful and bright without taking over the whole table. Both runners have tasselled ends, which makes them look that bit more charming once everything’s styled.

Add Little Bits of Texture

Once the base is sorted, I like adding small touches that soften everything. The Christmas Holly and Red Berry Picks work beautifully for this. I tuck them between serving trays or let them sit at the corners for a bit of natural colour.

If I want some sparkle, I’ll scatter a few Pink Glitterati Baubles around. They look lovely when the lights hit them at night. Sometimes I’ll even place one inside a clear glass bowl — simple but surprisingly pretty.

And when I want something fun on the table, I add the Sugared Lemon Christmas Decorations. They bring a bright pop of yellow that lifts the whole setting. I especially love them beside lemon tarts or shortbread.

Bring in a Bit of Personality

Dessert tables should feel joyful, so I always add something that makes people smile. The La Dolce Vita Blue Christmas Crackers do exactly that. I usually place them along the front edge of the table or slip them between cake stands.

The soft blue tones look beautiful with white platters and gold accents. If you're already mixing coastal elements into your Christmas styling, these tie in perfectly with anything from our La Dolce Vita Christmas Collection.

A Few Final Touches

Once everything’s set out, I’ll add whatever feels right in the moment. Sometimes it’s fresh greenery. Sometimes it’s a candle or two. If I’m hosting outdoors, I’ll use lanterns — the glow makes even the simplest desserts look magical.

Nothing needs to match perfectly. Dessert tables look best when they feel a bit collected, a bit relaxed, and genuinely lived in.

Something Sweet to End the Night

For me, a Christmas dessert table isn’t really about the desserts (although that helps). It’s about that cosy moment after dinner when everyone slows down and enjoys being together.

With a few thoughtful touches — a festive runner, a little sparkle, and pops of colour — you can create a table that feels warm and memorable without much fuss at all.

Warmly,
Wendy 🎄✨