A table dressed for the holidays does not need much: one tartan runner, a matching cushion or two, and candlelight. The pattern reads as festive on its own, so resist the urge to add more than that.
If you are hosting more than once this season, pick a tartan in a colourway that also works past New Year — a deep green or navy carries through winter long after the red-and-gold pieces go back in the box.
