Holiday decor is always a hot topic leading up to December.  Because it generally falls quite close to Christmas, Hanukkah tabletop inspiration is often left out of the discussion.  A quick Google search for “Hanukkah decor” yields a very traditional colour palette of royal blue and silver. 

Festival of Light

We modernized our palette while still paying homage to a few key Hanukkah traditions. For instance, we transitioned to dusty blue dinnerware with gold rims.  Using matte gold flatware, natural wood and eucalyptus garland kept things cozy. I think you’ll agree that the amber glassware from Crate and Barrel added the final glimmer of warmth.

For a playful twist, we placed beautiful, enamel dreidels at each place setting.  Light bounced around table as a result of the extra candles and glass bud vases placed thoughtfully.  This was most fitting as the very definition of Hanukkah is the “festival of light”.  

In 2019, Hanukkah begins in the evening on Sunday December 22nd and ends in the evening on Monday December 30th.  Much to our delight, this celebration was featured on Style Me Pretty Living just in time for Hanukkah.  

Hanukkah tabletop inspiration by 206 Event Co.

My sister recently converted to Judaism so when Tara proposed a holiday shoot for Hanukkah, I was very excited.  Our family has been learning more about the traditions and sense of community that define the way she and her husband participate in in the Jewish faith.  Hanukkah is an 8-night “festival of light” commemorating the successful rebellion by the Maccabees and the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.  According to religious text, a miracle occurred when the menorah in the Second Temple burned for eight days although there was only enough sacred oil for one day.  Hanukkah is celebrated though various customs that center around the seven or nine-armed menorah.   The celebration is made complete with special foods, games, and chocolate coins.

Inspiration for other celebrations

Although this shoot was styled with Hanukkah in mind, certain elements would transition well to other celebrations.  Metallic elements are popular for the holiday season in general.  Sweet Bloom’s hanging driftwood installation brought a distinctly-organic feel.  The menorah could be swapped for a regular candelabra or clusters of tapers.  The dreidels we placed at each plate could be traded out for a Christmas ornament or large pinecone.

Finally, I’d like to wish you all a very happy holiday season!  Here I share several of my favorite Calgary wedding venues (including The Nash of course).

Thank you to the talented vendor team:
Shoot design: 206 Event Co.
Venue:  The Nash
Hair and make-up:  Top Knot Brides
Dress: Adorn Boutique
Flowers:  Sweet Bloom Floral Design
Tableware: Crate & Barrel Canada