Make this season extra special with attention to the details

By Carin Hall   »  Photos by G. Frank Hart

As Thanksgiving and Christmas approach, we’re filled with excitement to welcome loved ones into our homes. There's something truly special about creating a warm, festive atmosphere—where every detail, from the décor to the table settings, reflects the magic of the season.

To help you craft a memorable holiday experience, we've handpicked three standout local Wilmington retailers. Each store offers its unique selection of home furnishings, décor, and gift ideas, perfect for bringing charm and elegance to your holiday tables. By shopping locally, you not only elevate your space with one-of-a-kind pieces but also support the heart of our community.

Let your holiday celebrations shine with creativity and enchant your guests with a tablescape that’s as unforgettable as the season itself.

Harvest Warmth

A rustic tablescape for cozy fall gatherings

This year’s holiday tablescape at Nest Fine Gifts & Interiors embraces the warm, rustic beauty of an autumn harvest.  Interior Designers Suzanne Reid and Porter Creighton started with a show stopping whitewashed turkey for the centerpiece, set atop a cascade of rich fall foliage and pheasant feathers. Deep orange wood chip pumpkins add a cozy and organic touch.

The table is accented with amber glassware that reflects the soft glow of candlelight, bringing depth and dimension to the neutral-toned dinnerware. Each place setting is carefully adorned with delicate napkins in muted tie-dye hues, evoking the colors of a fall sunset, while the antique gold carved placemats offer a touch of elegance to the rustic theme.

From the natural feather details to the soft autumnal colors, this tablescape will bring the beauty of the harvest season into your home, creating a welcoming and festive atmosphere for your guests.

Nest Fine Gifts & Interiors
1125 Military Cutoff Rd, Wilmington, NC
910-256-6378
nestfinegifts.com

Jingle Bells & Golden Dreams

A warm and welcoming design for celebrating with family and friends

This holiday tablescape, expertly crafted by Jaisa Conroy, a graduate of Cape Fear Community College's Interior Design program, exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for gathering with loved ones. Drawing inspiration from owner Janece Stone's signature style, the table features a harmonious blend of organic charm and refined elegance. A grey wash wood table sets the foundation, its surface adorned with a lush evergreen garland interspersed with gathered jingle bells ($35).

At each place setting, Conroy has thoughtfully incorporated whimsical jingle bell place cards ($29.99) that add a playful touch. Complementing the place cards are functional melamine, scalloped dishware layered with rich red napkins that enhance the overall festive vibe while maintaining a sense of sophistication. Strategically placed amidst the table you will find a deer head centerpiece, available in a larger and smaller size, reflecting the holiday spirit.

To complete this enchanting tablescape, Conroy has added seasonal pieces featuring an array of our Killian taper candle holders (Set of 2, $69), and tree shaped taper candles (Set of 2, $15). The flickering candlelight casts a soft glow, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for heartfelt conversations and laughter. Each element, from the carefully curated decor to the inviting textures, works together to transform the dining experience into a cherished holiday gathering space. This beautifully designed tablescape not only showcases Conroy’s talent but also captures the essence of Stone’s style, making it a memorable setting for family and friends to create lasting holiday memories.

Sugarwood Interiors
167 Porters Neck Rd, Wilmington, NC
910-319-7779
sugarwoodnc.com

Timeless Holiday Elegance

A bold blend of tradition, nature, and vintage charm

This year's holiday tablescape at Port City Peddler captures the spirit of classic holiday charm with vibrant red and green hues, accented by gold details and natural elements. The table is a showstopper, adorned with rich textures and festive details that evoke a sense of warmth and tradition.

The centerpiece arrangement, featuring clusters of bright oranges and crisp red apples, is paired with magnolia leaves, bringing a refreshing and organic touch to the setting. These bold natural elements provide a striking contrast to the luxurious place settings, while magnolia leaves bring a subtle Southern elegance to the table.

Owner Kaye Hamm continues to infuse her signature style, blending old-world charm with festive cheer. "I love the timelessness of using fruits and magnolias in décor—it’s festive without being overly traditional," says Hamm.

Each place setting is styled with layered green chargers and delicate vintage china, accompanied by fine crystal goblets. Red and gold accents tie the look together, adding warmth and a pop of seasonal color. The table is further enhanced with velvet ribbons and whimsical holiday crackers, offering a fun, interactive element for guests.

Adding a touch of whimsy to the shop's holiday scene, Santa ornaments in red velvet and candy-cane stripes are playfully positioned on the display shelves, giving shoppers a cheerful nod to the festive season. The ornament selection offers something for everyone—from traditional to playful and chic—allowing for personalized holiday decorating.

For those seeking a blend of refinement and festive flair, Port City Peddler’s tablescape is a perfect inspiration. The shop's beautiful collection of vintage tableware, paired with creative, fresh arrangements, brings together the magic of the season with a touch of nostalgic elegance.

Port City Peddler
6213 Market Street, Wilmington, NC
910-444-8881
portcitypeddler.com