New Year Table

A New Year table with sparkle that still feels elegant at midnight: black, gold and white, with shine in the details rather than everywhere.

Use a black or deep navy tablecloth with a gold runner for instant evening glamour.
Choose gold chargers, gold cutlery or gold-rimmed glasses as the single metallic accent.
Keep the centerpiece low and glittering: gold candles, a few metallic baubles and white flowers.
Add small clocks, stars or confetti shapes as table scatter, sparingly, so plates still have room.
Use white napkins folded into a simple pocket to hold the cutlery neatly.
Set a champagne flute at every place, even for guests drinking something else.
Place a small party favor, such as a noisemaker or a sparkler, beside each plate for midnight.
Dim the overhead lights and rely on candles plus one warm lamp for a party glow.
Keep a clear strip down the center for shared plates and the midnight toast.
End with a small bowl of grapes or chocolates on the table for the countdown snack.