Cheap chargers: Most people don’t use chargers for every day living. But these large accent plates really pack a punch for the holidays when used as a base layer for place settings. Look for inexpensive acrylic chargers in many colors. Expand your collection at winter clearance sales.

Flora and fauna: Unless you’re a fan of the rain, you and yours are probably stuck inside. Bring in elements of the outdoors such as twigs, berries, boughs or dried leaves to create a warm, festive scene.

Go faux: If that sounds like too much work, remember there’s a huge selection of flowers, branches, fruits and other imitations of life ready for the taking. “I like to bring in something organic,” said interiors specialist Galen Spaulding . “You can buy some incredibly realistic things. You buy them once and you own them.”

Flameless candles: Be on the look out for inexpensive, battery-operated candles that offer all the flicker but none of the risk of fire, available in sizes ranging from pillar to tea light. “They’re fabulous,” Spaulding said. “You can put them right in with the greens.”

Color casual: It’s OK if all your red accessories don’t match exactly. Make the most of it by mixing only your reds for a striking, monochromatic color scheme.

Garlands: If you have a long table, extend garlands and swags of beads and berries in a serpentine shape along the table to keep the drama going.

Elevation: You can spice up any design by adding height and layering. Instead of six candlesticks of the same height, go for two short, two medium and two tall.

Layering: Create a lavish table by layering table clothes, starting with a neutral tone such as black or ivory on the bottom, overlapped by a vibrant color on top. If your tablecloth is too large, try tying it in bows around the legs of the table, leaving graceful swags between legs.

Height restrictions: Don’t get carried away with tall displays on your dining table. Before settling on the final arrangement, sit down at each of the chairs to assess the views. “You don’t want to create a block where you can’t see each other across the table,” Spaulding said.

Shipshape: If you’re using a circular or oval table, use circular or oval place mats instead of rectangles or squares for a softer, more pleasing look.

Tone down: What works for your husband’s birthday party can also work for the holidays. You just have to plan accordingly. Instead of bright greens, reds and blues, invest in softer hues that can do double duty, including sage greens, rusty reds, earthy golds and sky blues.

Reversible: If you’re going to buy a nice tablecloth, find one that’s stain resistant and reversible so you can use it for multiple occasions.

Linen low-down: Linen looks great in the store displays, but may not fare well after washing. Choose polyester-cotton blends, for less, if any, ironing. Be sure the blend includes some cotton so the material is slightly absorbent.

Ornaments: Use them as subtle accents. Chandeliers, mantels, even place settings make wonderful homes for your precious ornaments. Hang them one by one from the ceiling in a graceful, sparkling arch over the table.

Tree toppers: Nestle one into a console, buffet or centerpiece display for a fresh new look.

Topiaries: Place a decorative topiary or potted plant in a colorful serving dish filled with holiday balls and you have an instant centerpiece.

Wine buckets: Who needs a delicate vase? Show off winter twigs, evergreen boughs and ornaments in other vessels.

Cake stands: Of course, you can you use your cake stand for displaying any kind of food (cookies, appetizers, veggies), but you can also place it under a centerpiece to add elevation. If it isn’t the right color, drape a cloth napkin over it and perhaps top it with a plate for a quick disguise.

Urns: Check your garage or shed for unused pots, urns and planters that could add to your holiday scene. Use them on the porch with holiday lights or bring them inside, dress them up and add them to your holiday table.

Sarah Jackson