The festive farmhouse look is exactly what is needed to create a relaxed and heritage-inspired holiday table. It's at the heart of McGee and Co's holiday entertaining collection, and it brings a rustic touch to traditional Christmas decorating ideas. I've been desperate to try it out ever since the collection dropped, and fortunately, the brand has just shared a step-by-step styling guide courtesy of Shea McGee herself. Even better? McGee & Co's Black Friday event has begun, and all of Shea's entertaining essentials are currently discounted.
'If there's one thing I love just as much as design, it is a great meal shared around a beautiful table with family and friends,' says Shea in a recent Instagram video – and these carefully-selected pieces really will create a magnificent backdrop that's fit for any gathering.
According to Shea, every impressive tablescape begins with the linens – and while her Spencer gingham tablecloth is reminiscent of festive plaid, it's wonderfully versatile.
'The first thing I do is set the foundation for the table with a tablecloth,' explains Shea. 'I use this tablecloth all year round; the weave in it is really beautiful, and it has a nice texture.'
Then, that signature rustic flourish, which comes courtesy of McGee & Co's Hermione placemats. 'I have this really beautiful red tone, and now I want to add an organic element,' says Shea. 'We're going to do that with the placemats; I love these because they have a really delicate edge.'
Sitting proudly atop these woven placemats are Shea's gorgeous dinner plates, which she confesses are her favorite part of the look. Featuring an intricate floral design in a berry red hue, they're perhaps the most festive piece on the table – but layered with charming lace trim napkins and Argent napkin rings in brass, they take on a more subtle, country grandmother-inspired look.
'I've used brass for the napkin rings and also the place card holders, so you get matte and shine, and the tones work together,' Shea notes. She introduces another metallic accent using gold flatware, and adds a final festive touch by tying faux pine needle and berry wreaths onto the dining chairs. It's a masterclass in bringing seasonal flair to rustic design – but it's also a reminder that entertaining essentials like these really can be repurposed again and again.
Shop Shea McGee's Christmas Entertaining Essentials
'We've been working hard to design this beautiful holiday dinnerware, and the red is just perfect,' explains Shea in the video. 'The scallop design creates a double border when you layer the plates together.'
Subtly festive and yet suitable for any occasion, I'd say this tablecloth is a hosting staple. I love the delicate weave.
There's no better way to channel the farmhouse look than with a set of woven placemats – and as Shea notes, these are set apart by their stunning scalloped edge.
'I love that these napkins remind me of a doily – in a very charming way,' says Shea. 'The cream is holiday-ready when paired with red, but I think these are really great for spring as well.'
These napkin rings are a brilliant way to bring some antique-inspired accents to your holiday table. I'd pair them with brass taper candlesticks and heirloom flatware.
Shea says she brings out these mini wreaths 'year after year', and it's easy to see why: they provide the perfect finishing touch to any holiday table. I adore the white ribbon detail.
If you haven't already, I'd add farmhouse chic to your list of holiday decor themes for Christmas this year – with Shea's expert tips, you're guaranteed to create a winning look.
