SETTING THE TABLE FOR CHRISTMAS | Unboxing my new tableware, plus a special festive dessert

Join me in this Christmas Episode where I'll be unboxing my new tableware from Rebecca Udall, setting the table, and sharing a new festive recipe that I think you will love!
To purchase my 2023 Christmas e-book and be in with the chance of winning a Nicolas Fairford Botanica Candle, click here:
shop.nicolasfairford.com/prod...
Shop my Rebecca Udall Tableware
White Linen Placemats: rebeccaudall.com/products/cla...
Champagne Glasses: rebeccaudall.com/collections/...
Wine Glasses: rebeccaudall.com/collections/...
Water Glasses: rebeccaudall.com/collections/...
Tortoiseshell Cutlery: rebeccaudall.com/collections/...
White Linen Napkins: rebeccaudall.com/collections/...
White Linen Cocktail Napkins: rebeccaudall.com/collections/...
Sage Tapered Candlesticks: rebeccaudall.com/collections/...
White Centrepiece Urn: rebeccaudall.com/collections/...

[@NicolasFairford]

To purchase my 2023 Christmas e-book and be in with the chance of winning a Nicolas Fairford Botanica Candle, click here: shop.nicolasfairford.com/products/festive-guide-to-the-season-by-nicolas-fairford

[@a.b.creator]

As far as the mural, if you own the building or plan to retire there it would be fine. If not, maybe Mr. Winter could find a creative way to create artwork which might mimic a mural which you could remove and take with you when you purchase a home. Just a suggestion. (I'm enjoying this episode, table settings are always so fun)

[@Someone-vn9ce]

I just discovered your channel. You are my new guilty pleasure. LOL I have been watching you way too much, but I just find your voice and demeanor so soothing and I love your elegance and the way you find joy in everything! Thank you for sharing your life with us!

[@11candy11]

Is it just me, or was anyone else totally impressed with the quality of that packaging? The manufacturer shipped with such care, each item was presented like a gift. Also, yes, the gold chargers look better. Both are nice, but with the glistening stemware, the high-polished table, and the holiday festivities, the gold chargers are perfect. Bravo!

[@MoonSpinners]

I was practically drooling over it 😂

[@ketosista9570]

Wonder if it has the same satisfaction for the Wrapper ?

[@kennethbailey9853]

So Delightful to see You once again !❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@gregpendrey6711]

The room is out of a dream. The camera seems to be picking up on camera a strange color on the walls. I think L E D bulbs don't bring out all the pigments. It will be amazing in sunlight for sure.

[@scudder99]

Maybe at one time, but I kept thinking of the mound of trash that was made. Boxes do compost, so I guess there's that nevertheless. Is it God or the Devil in the details?

[@artzk1]

Tip - when you prepare the marshmallow fruit salad, mix all ingredients in the mixer bowl. Then transfer it into your clean glass serving bowl. Also, mix ingredients with a rubber spatula to insure everything is incorporated and fruit does not get smashed or broken. You will not need to clean up the edges which looks messy no matter how you try to wipe it. I say this with best intentions and not to offend.

[@christopher3386]

I've suggested a rubber spatula to him as well.

[@carrie-joylloyd5785]

I thought the same. Mix in a big bowl and then transfer to the serving dish. It looks extremely yummy!

[@tessalister1226]

Not the most sensible way to mix these ingredients, taking much too long and ending up a bit of a mess, as you said.

[@Macerplus1]

Plus he tasted with the spoon and then proceeded to put it back in the salad to smooth it out. If he was going to be the only person eating it… no problem but he said he was having guests that evening.

[@Mar-iy8il]

I know that by now the dinner has happened, however next time just set the 4 place setting with 2 in the middle and one at each end. That will give you so much more room for glassware and even an extra little plate. Love your christmas tree! Something festive should go in front of your window. Perhaps a small mini christmas tree with warm white lights.

[@kimberleedenevi1207]

I was thinking the same thing 😊

[@pcbrightlights3733]

Ditto

[@teresahalliday3680]

I'm from the northeast of the US (New York State) and our Ambrosia was not made with exotic fruits, but apples, pears, grapes, cherries, (any addition fruit you prefer) and mini marshmallows. The coconut was added to the fruit. Then there was sweetened whipped cream gently folded in. When serving, more coconut was sprinkled on top. I think it was a great choice to use the gold chargers for a holiday dinner.

[@cyndirymer7068]

My great grandmother added chopped nuts as well - pecans or walnuts?

[@Someone-vn9ce]

Same here, but I am from the South, and my Grandma just used whatever fruits and nuts she grew on her farm and in her gardens: apples, pears, cherries, strawberries, blueberries, pecans, black walnuts, etc. She used both sour cream and heavy cream. This brought back childhood memories!!

[@martiseelye6443]

Everything looks absolutely stunning, Nicolas. Your hair looks great (as always). I have a question...are you going to have champagne with dinner? If you're having it with dessert, perhaps remove the flutes and bring them to the table when dessert is served. Hmmm I dunno. Maybe? I LOVE them. I think I need them 🤔

[@RosemaryStudy]

Suggestion: Reserve the Champagne glasses on the buffet/bar & serve before dinner. It will save space on your table - so just water glass and wine glass on the table. Too many Candles, simply two which will not detract from your center piece. Place Green boughs along the middle of the table with Gold balls - nice and low -- and it will pull it all together. So beautiful.

[@MoonSpinners]

I’m an artist, and I’ve painted murals in my house. Murals are great, but they’re a very personal thing, so if you want to move in the future, you may be better off with a lovely wallpaper. You can get some fantastic mural wallpapers these days and they’re quite affordable. P.S…if you get any candle wax on that beautiful wooden table I’ll faint 😂

[@glorianelson9538]

Yes, definitely.

[@mikiewifnoe360]

Wallpaper is more challenging to take off when moving than painting over a mural if needed.

[@TheFinnola]

Many of the mural wallpapers today are removable 😊

[@MoonSpinners]

@@mikiewifnoe360 …believe me, it’s easier to take wallpaper off than trying to paint over a mural. When painting a mural, it’s not completely flat, so when you paint over it, the shapes of whatever has been painted can still be seen, the whole wall has to be sandpapered before painting, it’s a nightmare.

[@scudder99]

You are absolutely correct, of course, about choosing a different investment. Painted tapestries can be commissioned and taken with you.

[@libertyblueskyes2564]

And here's another suggestion (like you need any) but I would place the big urn you just bought for your centerpiece on the buffet instead of the table. You would avoid obscuring the other diners eyesight as to their dinner partners. A beautiful fresh garland could come down the center of the table with low candles and berries. Well, anyway you've inspired me to think of how I would set my table.

[@scudder99]

Of course you're absolutely right. And he NEEDS suggestions. Silly boy was dropped on his head. He needs our help.

[@sheilabarnes1382]

I would love to keep watching but I have things to do catch you later xx

[@scudder99]

@@sheilabarnes1382 I'm sure he appreciates and excuses your absence after consideration.

[@maxthelab8457]

Totally Agree - you must NEVER obscure the eyeline of any guest. Low level table decoration can be just as impressive as tall.

[@LuisPerez-ft2rk]

He said he was going to remove the centerpiece once everyone is seated. So I’m sure he already has that planned.

[@cagodinez]

I love how you deliver your vlog like you're just addressing me; it makes your viewer really connected.

[@CarlaCashOutLoud]

I'm from the South in the U.S. and absolutely love ambrosia. My mother also used chopped pecans and whipped cream when making hers - never sour cream. Enjoy! Merry Christmas! 🎅

[@Someone-vn9ce]

I am from the South too and my Grandma always had pecans and black walnuts in hers. She had an orchard of pecan and black walnut trees so they always found their way into most holiday desserts which was great with me. LOL

[@sherryspotts8335]

Yes!! That's the real recipe 😋 He should have stuck to that. If his saying it's the American recipe.

[@normamenzies1372]

So inviting! You are an elegant host with amazing talent to bring beauty to the world! Thank you for sharing your consciousness with us!

[@erinpennington9716]

I'm a huge fan of gold chargers. The champagne flutes are stunning!

[@charliedavenport9609]

Such a beautiful table! Even before it was set, always great taste! Very simple elegance!

[@sheilaenglish9738]

I know I wasn’t the only one saying, “The gold ones, the gold ones, it’s Christmas!” We were all relieved when you settled on the gold chargers 😁 What a surprise to see you making ambrosia salad. Hope your guests enjoy it. ( I’m sure they will ☺️)

[@danw1952]

The flutes are GLORIOUS! Well-shopped!

[@marlaemerson3008]

Nick - I do think you are succeeding with your cooking. Little hint: "fold in" your dry ingredients into your cream base. It will keep all that fruit in tact. Great job!

[@dorettawilson7726]

With your colours, a centerpiece with magnolia leaves with coordinate very nicely. In the US and Canada, the dessert is called Ambrosia. Looks lovely.

[@donnamcmillan6950]

My Grandmother made it every Christmas!

[@scudder99]

@@donnamcmillan6950 EVERY grandmother who ever read Better Homes and Gardens or Redbook in the 1960s in the USA had that recipe, and it varied greatly. A little Grand Marnier in the whipped double cream is lovely.

[@saralewis6859]

I am 74 years old and love your videos , i like to think outside the box, when i saw the champagne flutes i thought you could turn them upside down and use them for candle holders . love your peaceful spirit.

[@scudder99]

SHOT GLASSES I thought.

[@patralink]

A beautiful episode today. I thoroughly enjoyed all of it. Such an elegant table setting and It was such fun watching you open all the boxes. Thank you Nicolas for sharing your Christmas preparations with us.

[@colinalexander1507]

The sour cream balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and it can be served with savoury.

[@saraw8503]

We American southerners love a sweet treat.

[@garykrysler2772]

Having roots in Oklahoma, I hooted when you said American Marshmallow Salad. "He means ambrosia!" And then you said the name a moment later. It was an enjoyable moment. I loved the opportunity to watch you set your table. At first I was thinking I liked the rattan chargers better, but then when you put the gold chargers back, I thought, he's right, this holiday wants a splash of color and brightness! It was fun "working the problem" with you. Now I'm off to get your e-book. Wishing you all success.

[@NicolasFairford]

Thank you so much ! X

[@bobbiharman8367]

I'm from Georgia (US) and ambrosia is one of my favorite desserts. The light airiness of the cream mixed with the juiciness of the pineapple is just heaven in the mouth. And it's just a light, fresh dessert. It shows up a lot at family potlucks in the Southeastern US's hot, humid summers.

[@Tee55118]

Yes. I am hibernating, too. I lit a candle because i am too tired to make a fire. I am recovering from a hospital stay, so I am avoiding all social engagements or office visits. I only am staying cozy at home and taking the time to look at your video.

[@a.b.creator]

Oh I do love the little rondelle in the center of the stem on your glasses . It makes them stand out compared to other glasses.

[@SJC49]

Yes, so elegant.

[@beegood14]

Everything about this video was fantastic. I love ambrosia. Everything is always done with such elegance.

[@northeastgirl8433]

Very Pretty! That buffet with the mirror is screaming for a beautiful flower display. Maybe the new bowl there? And maybe a smaller arrangement on the table would free up room for your glasses? A mural sounds perfect! If not, what about a sage green paint --since you love botanicals... In America, we put cream and sour cream in the ambrosia and sprinkle crushed nuts on top. I like how you did the cherries, though! Happy holidays, Nicolas!

[@scudder99]

OF cOURse, you are correct! A spectacular arrangement of flowers and greens!

[@Karen-ml1hd]

Your table turned out beautiful, hello to Sophie 🎄❄️☃️

[@zanbudd]

I would also provide more space for my guests and place them at the 4 directions

[@lindakuhl3674]

Use both the brown return on top of the gold charger on your holiday table.

[@richardgreiner9264]

Nicolas you present such a beautiful table .

[@stevent5271]

It's unfortunate he used plastic charges. I wouldn't be very impressed for a special occasion to be eating off plastic.

[@TheDorianGray]

Nicolas, Grand Duchess of Edinburgh, opening enchanted merchandise boxes, setting a festive table, making a magical marshmallow salad from the antebellum American South, and generally spreading sparkly Christmas fairy dust everywhere.

[@stardresser1]

Late of Italy as well...

[@rexwater1]

😄...you forgot puttering. I love it when he putters

[@TheDorianGray]

@@rexwater1 My bad!🤣

[@deborahhuckaby4623]

A nice stay at home evening on a freezing cold day and night is so cozy. Make sure you put a warm coat or sweater on Sophie when taking her for a walk. You don't want her getting sick. I love everything you bought and how well packed everything came in❤❤❤. Beautiful video. Merry Christmas!!

[@williamsmith4899]

I'm a native of South Carolina - many generations here. We have enjoyed Ambrosia for years during the holidays - there are many slightly different recipes but all are good. Merry Christmas.

[@teresajordan877]

I am in the US and the salad I make uses pistachio jello, the box of dried jello and add it to cool whip, add drained crushed sweetened pineapple, add mini marshmallows and cut walnuts. It is a nice refreshing salad I make at Thanksgiving and Christmas.

[@scudder99]

Good heavens. Do NOT use cool whip. This woman is from a certain era, and most assuredly not France.

[@teresajordan877]

@@scudder99No I am not French and in a pinch when you have so many dishes to make at the holidays there is nothing wrong with cool whip.

[@scudder99]

i KNEW IT@@teresajordan877

[@kimberleedenevi1207]

My Mom made it that way,loved it!

[@Macerplus1]

It is called Watergate Salad.

[@marinadevegas4977]

I would put 2 at the head of the table and 2 at the side of the table crosswise. You gain more space for the cristal glasses and your not of need for space of the cutlery.

[@kathleenmathews6096]

For four people, use the end chairs, center the other two at the sides, and you have room for the glasses.

[@elizawalker7196]

Yes, good idea, he looked rather shocked and he realised he coukd not fit all six mats on that table!!

[@eastcoastartist]

My dad makes the fruit and marshmallow salad every year. Heartwarming ❤

[@tamila7381]

I love your attention to detail. It's a classic, beautiful table.

[@BarbHayes-zn7fi]

Hi Nicolas! I love your channel! So elegant! I'm a southerner and we also like to add some chopped pecans to the Ambrosia. Lightly toast them and they add a little bit of crunch to offset all the sweet soft ingredients! You'll love! Have a wonderful Christmas full of many blessings! 🙏 ❤️

[@ketosista9570]

Your Christmas e-book is brilliant. So Nicolas and unique !

[@user-dianejcml]

It is beautifully done by Nicolas! So lovely to read and enjoy 🥰

[@lyndaward5179]

I don’t think I commented in your last video, how pleased I was to hear your good news about meeting someone that you really like is it the person that you went abroad with, and you helped him decorate and furnish his apartment because after that you did seem to be different in a good way of course. Even if it is not who ever it is l wish you both lots of love and adventures together. I really enjoyed this video when you changed the gold to brown l thought he will change it back, in a minute, l am not a match match person so l would have had two gold and two brown 😅 I look forward to next week to see how you complete the central arrangement I know it will be beautiful. That’s my kind of salad not a lettuce leaf in sight. Best wishes from Lynda

[@mcsweetpeaa.1457]

I make this at summer too, a nice treat for warm day. I add some walnuts to it too. It's a wonderful treat!

[@eleanorbertuch135]

Another charming visit. Thank you Nicholas ❣️

[@rosaelinav8036]

Amazing decorations Nicolas and both colors are beautiful ; but gold is the most Christmas holiday color. The brown one, will use its with orange 🍊 for the thanksgiving day. This is our holiday but you just gave me a great idea of the brown bottom plate you have!!! I will say everything is gorgeous in your table, honestly I can’t wait to see it’s when it’s all completed ❤❤❤❤ love it’s. Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful video.

[@danasandlin2435]

your hair looks great--you don't need to highlight it (silver hair highlights come naturally soon enough)...sophie is looking great...I adopt senior dogs and let them live to the natural end to their lives--I find that often they live much longer than we would expect--and really have very few health issues until they pass...I have had dogs for 3-10 years and they are always amazing...dts/usa

[@danasandlin2435]

ambrosia is much better with whipping cream--you are smart to use that...dts/usa

[@bevnichols9162]

Everything is lovely. Your choice of tableware is exquisite. Enjoy and thank you for sharing

[@lilyarmitage4168]

That gorgeous cutlery will look smashing with those beautiful napkins and linen placemats and, as for that glassware, perfection.

[@kyarichards2894]

Lovely. You have such a wonderful mindfulness in everything you do Nicolas.

[@conversecone9687]

A very handsome table setting! All looks great! The white centerpiece container is the perfect focal point. The glassware is so elegant.

[@graceolims2297]

Wow... looks so elegant, and that dessert, looks so good.

[@susannegiesen2114]

I saw this video today. It was so nice to watch your unrapping😊 And it is such a lovely table-setting! I do have the same rattan charges, but I was happy that you changed back to the gold ones, because I thought the same as you: It is Christmas 🌲😊. You can use the other ones for another festive occasion. Hope you had a nice dinner 😊

[@dianesalyards7441]

NO ONE🎉 Brings in Christmas like Nicolas! St. Nicolas!❤

[@paulineclare5065]

Love the glass wear and that cutlery is devine! ❤

[@thatgirlmadge]

Beautiful.in every detail Rebecaa Udall!! Love everything!!! Merry Christmas Nicolas!❤

[@norahdenovan8658]

I agree with Candy, the packaging is just perfect , top notch quality

[@rosepaetzke2933]

Your new purchases are all beautiful! Good choice keeping the gold chargers. It is Christmas after all💗🎄!

[@MizJilly]

Thank you for another beautiful and relaxing episode!

[@Lulita.222]

Love Love everything ❤ Merry Christmas 🎅

[@rhondag9717]

I am becoming a most chic hostess… thanks to you, Nicolas! I have learned so much. Stunning table setting.. the final touch of the four elongated candles had me gasping… so beautiful!!🎄🎄🎄❤️

[@littlebird8837]

I enjoyed your video and love your table setting...beautiful choices..thank you for sharing, Nicolas!! 💕🕊

[@alexrobinson3385]

Beautiful. I think it’s actually quite cozy looking with the dark lighting

[@mikemclane8821]

Wonderful episode - Thank you so much and Happy Holidays!

[@CynthiaArmstrong7]

I love the gold chargers. Beautiful choice.

[@monaonassis6346]

I just love your channel. You have such a nice speaking voice and warm personality. I really enjoy, all of your videos in seeing what you’re decorating or cooking. It’s obvious, you are a gentle soul. Merry Christmas to you. 🎄

[@Katie-vy5rd]

Sophie such a wonderful treat for me to see her in your videos. Theres a story behind my adoration of your sweetheart baby doll. 😇😊 Happy Christmas to you both🎄💖

[@johnwilliamtuckey2796]

Merry Christmas Nickolas! ❤

[@KS-xs8bl]

Lovely!! My favorites: the champagne flutes, fruit salad, and Sophie, looking so content! ❤❤ Thank you for this beautiful video!

[@CM-yo9jk]

Lovely to see some Rebecca Udall. Great choices.

[@user-ls8pg1np7g]

Hello Nicolas from Australia, I have been following you for years. I love watching your show. Thank you for sharing.

[@judithtackitt5100]

What a beautiful video! So peaceful, educational and stylish!!❤❤

[@shelleyimmel8067]

I remember that Ambrose salad when I was growing up. I make a Christmas salad I call snow on oranges which is just cut oranges sprinkled with coconut and everyone loves it. It may be the gummy bears dancing across the salad that kids like, of course. I was glad you went back to good charger since it is always fun to have a bit of sparkle at Christmas. Enjoy your week🌲

[@kaken3137]

Your taste is exquisite! It was so much fun watching the unboxing of all your new table items. Thanks for sharing.

[@stevent5271]

Id have to disagree... plastic chargers? really?

[@dianaanson4506]

The gold charges are a more richer and more sophisticated look if that is what you are going for. Also, adds to the flavor of Christmas dining.❤

[@maga.j]

Yaaaas, new video ❤ I love you ✨

[@Missfrankiecat]

I feel that Marshmallow salad could do with some booze whipped in the cream - Cointreau would probably work.

[@BernardDauphinais]

oooh, brandy!

[@louiseperry6920]

All exquisite Nicolas, treasures for life. Gorgeous video thank you so much. 🙏😍

[@noellarash367]

Love your table setting

[@JD-to5bm]

❤ Happy holidays to you Nicolas.❤

[@pamwilliams4540]

Loved your video! So festive. But my favorite part was Sophie watching you from the comfort of the sofa! Lol!!

[@normamimosa5991]

I love the dark ambience in your dining room.

[@bushrabashir6745]

Hi Good to see you again Table holiday season setting I love it so beautiful Have a wonderful and healthy holidays

[@katjaxxx7353]

your friends will have the most beautiful dinner - so beautiful arranged Nicolas - thank you for pointing out what to look for .... you gave me some ideas for our xmas dibber table

[@anthonylewischurchill-theg233]

Have a Very Merry Christmas Nicolas, Bless You Heres to 2024 ❤🎄

[@anneduigan4933]

Ooh! I do love an unboxing and this was lovely

[@porlina8784]

Your table is beautiful Nicolas ..... You must be a wonderful host as you're so attentive to detail.... The gold chargers go really well and like you say ... "It is Christmas" hope your friends and guests appreciate the effort you go to xx

[@laurafara6264]

Absolutely lovely

[@azzamarwan5476]

Nicolas your table looks so beautiful and every thing is lovely ❤❤🎉🎉

[@oldcrowcreations]

Hi sweet Sophie💕 So many wonderful things Nicholas. Such lovely packaging. It just makes it even more special. Leaving some table showing is very appealing. The linens are so beautiful. I hadn’t thought about cloth cocktail napkins, but they are so special. I love that you find beauty in the glassware. I do too. It just added such beautiful sparkle to everything. Can’t wait to see your greenery in place. Enjoy your dinner. 🥰

[@oldcrowcreations]

Forgot to say that your ambrosia looked delicious. It’s definitely an old school recipe with many variations. I like that you stuck to fresh ingredients and used the double cream. Hope you enjoy it.

[@ryanscottlogan8459]

Nicholas I wish you a magical Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year!❤️🎄🎄🎄

[@dt8118]

Loved this video ❤❤❤❤

[@jeepgeek7259]

Stunning tableware and linens! Merry Christmas!

[@ArtemisC.DAragon]

Wow!!! Thank you so much Nicolas!!! I really enjoyed this video and all your wonderful abd trully tasteful ideas!!! I adore Xmas & your channel!!! Have a wonderful festive season!!!🤗🎄🧑‍🎄🥂

[@annmcevoy5686]

Im so glad the decorating is low key, i am not keen on the department store look that seems so popular at the moment. Going back to a simpler time is lovely

[@tonyyero7231]

I luv the way Sofie relaxes on the sofa ❤

[@paulasullivan18]

Christmas Table Setting Beautiful Merry Christmas 🎄 🥰😊💯👍🏼

[@jsmith5509]

Beautiful tableware!!!

[@glendalafont1561]

Loved this