The Christmas season brings a sense of warmth and togetherness, and nothing contributes to this festive ambiance like a beautifully styled Christmas snack platter. You want to spoil your guests not only with delicious snacks and drinks, but also with a visual feast that enhances the togetherness. In this blog post, you will discover the best ways to style your snack platter, so that you impress your guests and create an unforgettable atmosphere. Let's explore the art of presenting your Christmas treats together!
Choose a Theme for your Christmas Drinks Board
A well-chosen theme can really enhance the look of your Christmas party platter and instantly put your guests in the right mood. Here are some popular themes and tips for creating a cohesive look.
1. Traditional Christmas theme
A classic Christmas theme evokes nostalgic feelings and brings the warmth of the holidays into your home. Think traditional colours of red and green, with gold or silver accents.
Examples of materials and decorations:
- Table linen: Choose a red tablecloth, for example the IKEA KUNGSHAVS tablecloth.
- Crockery: Use it Villeroy & Boch Toy's Delight tableware for a festive presentation.
- Decorations: Add Christmas baubles and pine cones as decorative elements.
Important points to note:
- Mix up different textures, such as linen napkins and ceramic plates.
- Use candles like the Yankee Candle Christmas Cookie to create a warm atmosphere.
2. Modern Minimalist Style
For those who prefer a sleek, modern look, a minimalist theme is ideal. It focuses on simplicity and elegance, using neutral colors and clean lines.
Examples of materials and decorations:
- Table linen: A white or gray tablecloth, such as the HAY Tablecloth, provides a fresh base.
- Crockery: Consider it Fritz Hansen Norr tableware that fits perfectly with a minimalist style.
- Decorations: Opt for geometric glass vases or a few branches of a pine tree in a simple vase.
Important points to note:
- Keep the palette limited; preferably use two or three colors.
- Use natural elements, such as wood and stone, to add warmth to the clean lines.
3. Winter Wonderland
This theme brings the magic of winter indoors. Think of a palette of white, silver and light blue, which creates a fresh and sparkling look.
Examples of materials and decorations:
- Table linen: A white or light blue tablecloth, such as the SOUND DRUM from IKEA, is perfect.
- Crockery: It Royal Copenhagen Blue Fluted tableware is a beautiful addition to this theme.
- Decorations: Use artificial snow and glitter to create a magical atmosphere.
Important points to note:
- Add playful elements, such as snow globes or star-shaped candles.
- Provide good lighting, for example with the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance lamps that can give a warm glow.
4. Festive Fine Food and Drink
This theme is all about the culinary experience. Use colours and materials that draw attention to the food and drink, with a focus on presentation.
Examples of materials and decorations:
- Table linen: A black tablecloth like the HAY Table Runner can add elegance.
- Crockery: The use of the Mikasa Antique White tableware offers a timeless look.
- Decorations: Add edible decorations such as rosemary sprigs or lemon slices to glasses.
Important points to note:
- Provide variety in the presentation of the food; use different heights with stands and bowls such as the T&G Woodware Acacia Wood Cake Stand.
- Use nice glasses like the Riedel O Wine Tumbler for a luxurious appearance of drinks.
Considerations When Choosing a Theme
When choosing a theme for your Christmas drinks platter, there are several factors to consider:
- Guests: Consider your preferences and the number of guests you are inviting.
- Room: Choose a theme that fits the available space and decorations you have.
- Budget: Set a budget for decorations and ingredients so you stay within your means.
By choosing a theme that matches your style and the occasion, you will create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests during the Christmas drinks.
Select the right ingredients for a perfect snack platter
A snack platter is not complete without the right ingredients. Carefully choosing a variety of flavors and textures is essential to creating a successful and inviting experience. Below are some guidelines and examples to ensure your snack platter is a hit.
A mix of flavors and textures
When putting together your snack platter, it's important to find a balance between different flavors and textures. Here are some categories to consider:
- Cheeses: Choose a mix of soft, hard and blue cheeses. Some recommended brands include:
- Leerdammer for a mild, creamy taste.
- Old Amsterdam for a strong, mature cheese.
- Roquefort for a strong blue cheese.
- Meats: Various meats can enrich your drinks platter. Think of:
- Serrano ham for a salty, delicate taste.
- Salami Milano for a spicy touch.
- Bresaola for a lean, dried beef that tastes good.
- Nuts: Nuts add crunch and a healthy twist to your plank. Consider:
- Nature Valley mixed nuts for an authentic mix.
- Pistachios for a unique taste experience.
- Fruit: Fresh fruit can provide a refreshing contrast and complement the flavors on your board. Suggestions include:
- Grapes for their sweetness and juiciness.
- Strawberries for a fresh and sweet touch.
- Figure for a luxurious look.
- Dips: Dips can be a great addition and add extra flavor. Try:
- Hummus from Alnatura for a creamy, plant-based option.
- Greek Style Tzatziki for a fresh yoghurt sauce.
- Old El Paso Guacamole for a Mexican twist.
Vegetarian and vegan options
It is important to consider all guests, including those who are vegetarian or vegan. Here are some suggestions to meet these needs:
- Vegetarian cheeses: Search for brands like Wilma that offer vegetarian cheeses.
- Vegan dips: Vegan Hummus from The Vegetarian Butcher is an excellent choice.
- Vegetable snacks: Add sliced cucumber, carrots and bell pepper with a fancy dip, such as Avocado dip from Eat Natural.
Seasonal products for Christmas
By choosing seasonal ingredients, you can enhance the Christmas spirit on your snack board. Think of:
- Spicy cheeses: Choose a cheese with Christmas spices, such as a cider cheese from Old Amsterdam.
- Cinnamon nuts: Joint spicy nut mixes from Pistachio ready for a festive crunch.
- Candied fruit: Candied orange peels can be a unique and sweet addition.
Practical tips for putting together your drinks platter
- Determine the size: Consider the number of guests and their appetite. An average snack platter can contain about 200-300 grams per person.
- Color and presentation: Create an attractive presentation by varying colors and textures. For example, use a wooden plank or a marble slab for a luxurious look.
- Use small plates and napkins: This makes it easier for your guests to taste without it getting messy.
By following these guidelines and selecting the right ingredients, you can create an unforgettable snack platter that will surprise and delight all your guests.
Use beautiful serving boards and decorations
When putting together a Christmas party platter, presentation is crucial. Not only does an attractive presentation create a tasteful experience, it also contributes to the overall atmosphere of the event. Below are some tips and examples of using beautiful serving platters and decorations.
Type Serving Systems
Wooden Serving Systems
Wooden serving boards are a great choice for a rustic and warm look. They are versatile and can be used for both cold and hot dishes. For a luxurious look, here are some recommended brands:
- Bistro Wooden Board: This shelf is made of high-quality acacia wood and has a natural finish that fits perfectly with a festive setting.
- KitchenAid Wood Cutting Board: This is not only a serving board, but also a cutting board. It has a sturdy construction and a stylish design.
Marble Serving Systems
Marble serving boards give an elegant and chic look to your drinks board. They are ideal for serving cheeses and charcuterie.
- Gourmet Kitchen Marble Board: This marble serving board is not only beautiful, but also functional. It keeps the temperature of the served products better.
- Westmark Marble Serving Board: This model has a non-slip bottom, making it safe to use.
Ceramic Serving Systems
Ceramic planks are perfect for a more festive look. They often come in different colours and patterns, which can help create a playful atmosphere.
- Le Creuset Stoneware Serving Platter: This platter is versatile and works perfectly in the oven or microwave.
- Royal Doulton Signature Platter: This ceramic plate has a modern look and can be used for both serving and decoration.
Decorative Elements
In addition to the serving boards, you can also add decorative elements that take the presentation to the next level.
Christmas branches
Using Christmas branches such as pine or holly can add a festive touch to your drinks board. They can easily be added as a natural border around the boards or as a decorative element on the table.
Candles
Candles are a great way to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. Consider using small tea light holders, such as:
- IKEA SINNERLIG: This decorative bamboo candle holder adds a natural look.
- Yankee Candle Tea Light Holders: Available in a variety of styles, perfect for adding fragrance and ambiance to your gathering.
Beautiful Napkins
A stylish presentation is not possible without beautiful napkins. Choose cloth napkins in Christmas colours such as deep red, green or gold. Brands such as Villeroy & Boch or Duni offer high-quality napkins that are not only functional, but also have a luxurious appearance.
Practical Tips for the Perfect Presentation
- Mix and Match: Combine different materials for a dynamic look. For example, use a wooden board with marble bowls for an attractive contrast.
- Elevation: Play with height differences by using raised serving dishes or stackable plates. This makes the presentation visually more interesting.
- Color theme: Choose a color theme that fits the holiday season. Red, green, gold, and white are popular choices that create a festive atmosphere.
By paying attention to the presentation of your snack board and using beautiful serving boards and decorations, you will not only create a visually appealing arrangement, but also a unique experience for your guests. With the right elements and a well-thought-out approach, you can create a festive atmosphere that will remain in the memory of your guests for a long time.
Conclusion: Creating the perfect Christmas drinks platter
In conclusion, styling your Christmas party platter can be a fun and creative experience. By applying a thematic approach, carefully chosen ingredients, attractive serving platters and a well-thought-out layout, you can create a visual spectacle and a festive ambiance. Remember, the most important aspect is to enjoy the process and add your own personal flair. With these tips, you are well equipped to surprise your guests and organize an unforgettable Christmas gathering.
