There's something special about hosting during the holidays. Whether it's Thanksgiving dinner, a festive brunch, or a cozy night in with friends, your dining room becomes the heart of the celebration. But if your space feels a little tight—or your furniture isn't quite working—hosting can quickly go from joyful to stressful.
With a few thoughtful changes and some planning ahead, you can create a dining space that feels welcoming, functions well, and looks beautiful. These holiday hosting essentials are all about making your dining room feel ready for the season, no matter the size of your home.
Start with the Right Table Size and Shape
Your dining table is the anchor of your space. If it's too small, you'll struggle to seat everyone. Too large, and it might overpower the room.
One of the first things to consider is how many guests you usually host—and how often. An extendable table is a smart option for flexibility. Keep it compact for everyday use, then expand it when the company comes. Round tables are great for smaller rooms and casual gatherings. Rectangular tables suit longer rooms and bigger groups.
Showhome Furniture carries a wide selection of Canadian-made dining tables, many of which are customizable. You can choose the size, finish, and style that works best for your space. And if you’re not sure what size fits your room, their team can help.
They offer a free interior design consultation right at their showroom—just bring your room measurements and your hosting goals. It’s an easy way to make sure your layout is functional and festive.
Rethink Your Seating Mix
Not every guest needs the same chair. In fact, mixing and matching chairs can add personality and flexibility to your dining room.
Try a bench on one side of the table to save space and seat more people. Use two matching chairs at each end, then swap in a few slimmer chairs along the sides to keep things open. If you're short on dining chairs, pull in a few accent chairs from other rooms—they don't have to match perfectly, but complement the style.
At Showhome Furniture, you'll find everything from upholstered dining chairs to wooden benches, in styles that blend easily with what you already have. Their designers can even help you choose combinations that feel intentional rather than mismatched.
Create a Holiday Hosting Essential Flow That Works for Guests
One of the most important (and often overlooked) holiday hosting essentials is traffic flow. When the dining room is crowded with furniture, moving around becomes tricky—especially when food is involved.
Try leaving at least 36 inches between the table and walls or other furniture. This gives guests enough space to pull out chairs and move around comfortably. If your space is tight, consider tucking bulky furniture like bar carts or cabinets against the wall or into another room for the night.
You can also keep the table setup simple. A clean tabletop with minimal centrepieces leaves more room for serving dishes and encourages conversation. Instead of large floral arrangements, try a few candles or a narrow runner with greenery.
Lighting Sets the Mood
Lighting can completely change the feel of your dining space. During the holidays, soft, warm lighting adds comfort and a little extra sparkle.
If you have a pendant or chandelier over your table, make sure it’s centred and at the right height—about 30 to 34 inches above the tabletop is ideal. Add dimmable bulbs or candles to create that cozy, evening glow.
Showhome Furniture offers a curated selection of lighting that suits both formal and casual dining styles. Their team can also help you choose the right fixture based on your ceiling height and table shape.
Add Style That Doesn’t Get in the Way
Once your layout is functional, you can focus on details that bring the room to life. Swap in seasonal linens, layer in textures with placemats or chargers, and use natural elements like pinecones, greenery, or citrus for a festive but unfussy touch.
Don’t feel pressured to go over the top. Sometimes, a simple setup done well feels more intentional and relaxed. And remember—your guests are here for the company, not just the tablescape.
If you’re unsure about how to pull everything together, this is another time when Showhome’s free interior design consultation can be helpful. Even a short session can give you a few fresh ideas or confirm that you’re on the right track.
Visit the Showroom or Book Online
Holiday hosting should feel joyful, not rushed. The right furniture and layout can take a lot of stress off your plate and let you focus on what really matters—spending time with the people you love.
If you’re ready to update your dining space or just need a few pieces to complete the room, stop by Showhome Furniture at North Hill Centre. Their 70,000 sq. ft. showroom is filled with inspiration, from extendable dining tables to the perfect mix of seating and seasonal décor.
Short on time? Browse their online shop or book your free interior design consult today. Their designers are here to help you get hosting-ready, without the guesswork.
Make your dining room hosting-ready.
Visit Showhome Furniture or book your free design consultation today.
FAQs on Calgary Holiday Hosting Essentials:
1. What are the most important holiday hosting essentials for a dining room?
Some of the top essentials include a properly sized dining table, flexible seating options, good lighting, and an easy-to-navigate layout. These basics help create a comfortable space where guests can gather, eat, and enjoy the evening. Functional additions like extendable tables, benches, and soft lighting go a long way in making your space feel warm and welcoming. Showhome Furniture offers a wide range of furniture and design services to help you create a dining room that works for hosting during the holidays.
2. How do I know what dining table size is right for my space?
Start by measuring your dining area. Ideally, leave at least 36 inches between the table and the surrounding walls or furniture so guests can move freely. If space is limited, consider a round or extendable table for more flexibility. Bring your room dimensions to Showhome Furniture and take advantage of their free interior design consultation. Their team can recommend the right table size, shape, and layout to ensure a good fit for your hosting needs and your room.
3. What are some space-saving tips for hosting in a smaller dining room?
Use a bench on one side of your table to seat more people without crowding the room. Consider removing or relocating bulky furniture for the night to open up space. Keep the tabletop decor minimal—use a narrow runner or a few candles instead of large centrepieces. Multi-use pieces, like storage benches or compact sideboards, also help maximize your space. Showhome Furniture has several smart furniture options that are perfect for hosting in smaller dining areas.
4. How can I mix and match dining chairs without it looking messy?
Mixing chairs can add interest and flexibility to your dining setup. To keep it cohesive, stick to a similar colour palette, material, or style. For example, pair wooden side chairs with matching end chairs in a different fabric, or use a bench on one side. You can bring photos of your existing furniture to Showhome’s showroom, and their design team can help you pick complementary pieces. It’s an easy way to add style without overthinking every detail.
5. What services does Showhome Furniture offer to help with holiday hosting setups?
Showhome Furniture offers free in-store interior design consultations to help you prepare your space for hosting. Their design experts will help you plan your layout, choose the right furniture pieces, and offer styling tips to suit your space and guest list. You’ll also find custom options for dining tables, chairs, benches, and lighting. Visit their 70,000 sq. ft. showroom at North Hill Centre in Calgary, or browse online for inspiration and book your design consultation directly.
Book Your Free Dining Room Design Consult at Showhome Furniture
Hosting this holiday season? Let Showhome Furniture help you create a warm and functional dining space. Their free interior design consultation makes it easy to plan layouts, choose the right furniture, and create a setting your guests will love. Whether you need a new dining table, extra seating, or a few styling tips, their design experts will guide you every step of the way. Book your consult online or visit their spacious Calgary showroom at North Hill Centre today.
