I have, very rarely, used bright red and green for the holiday table. I have used softer tones, neutrals, whites, softer sage greens.
These colours usually make the table look elegant, even though you might consider using paper plates. When using bright colours it is more light-hearted. If you don’t have napkins that match the table cloth, you can’t go wrong if you put out white cloth ones. BUT, they should be as bright a white as you can find. This gives a crisp look and shows you are starting to pay attention to details.
You can make napkin rings with a bit of a sparkle to create atmosphere. Always have candles and fresh flowers. You can laugh, I always have tulips in the house at Christmas. I like white but have used a soft pink. Depends on what I am using. Below is a setting for a “pre” Christmas dinner with friends,
