Decorating your holiday table can be daunting.  Maybe lack of storage space or the place where you’ll be celebrating makes it impossible to have tableware themed to every occasion.  Or maybe all that’s needed to turn daunting into delightful is a little inspiration to get the creative juices flowing.  Following are some ideas resulting from a browse around the Island.

 It’s a given that the Vineyard woods and shore are full of all the greenery, berried vines, pine cones and shells that you could ever need.  Add some seasonal foods—pomagranites, cranberries and  nuts– and you can create centerpieces galore. Shirley’s Hardware is a great resource for do-it-yourself decorating as well as for many of the other items we’ll be mentioning.

Details Make the Difference--
Ideas that Span the Season
No time for do-it-yourself... a quick look around Vineyard shops are in order. The first rule is to stick to the basics:  Burgundy, evergreen or white tableware will carry you beautifully  through the New Year. Invest instead in napkins and place mats to make your statement.  Fun napkin holders that can double as gifts are holiday or Vineyard themed cookie cutters. You'll find these just about everywhere including  Rainy Day, LeRoux and Bowl and Board in Vineyard Haven.

Just for Fun
Also at Rainy Day you’ll find tree ornaments—leaves, acorns and sparkling stars-- that can double as place-card holders, table decorations and take-home favors for your guests.  Just up the block at LeRoux, trivets in Christmas red as well as wine bottle and stemware accessories will add a touch of whimsy to your table. Other playful place markers are foil wrapped holiday chocolates or the wonderful Christmas themed musical match boxes at Two Susans, also in Vineyard Haven. 

Seashells that Sparkle
Nothing dresses up a table quite like candle light.  Make yours special and very Vineyard with the tea-lights Donaroma's offers in its holiday shop.  And, if you can allow yourself just one splurge, make it the Venetian style hand blown stemware from the Martha's Vineyard Glassworks in West Tisbury. And, for a centerpiece that will also be the center of conversation, fill a clear glass bowl with their exquisite hand-blown tree ornaments. Happy decorating!