Social media, in one way or another, have made people more conscious about aesthetics.
These days, when hosting dinners, the table set-up has become just as important as the actual menu.
"You don't really have to study it," said Happy Ongpauco-Tiu at an event for the brand Glad.
She continued, "With everything available on the Internet now, it's much easier to do tablescapes."
Her number-one advice is to invest in a set of plates and cutlery.
This was set up by Toni Gonzaga.
Such table essentials need not be expensive. Like most major purchases, it's best to watch for department stores' end-of-season sales, where most of their home section stuff such as table linens, napkins, risers, coasters, and jars, are offered at affordable marked-down prices.
Heart Evangelista is a big collector.
For accents, you'll never go wrong with flowers.
"They add color and texture to the setting," said Happy.
Because noche buena and media noche are held annually, it won't hurt to have Christmas-themed stuff for your tablescape.
Marjorie Barretto's practical tip for daughter Julia when she set up her first Christmas tree also applies to table settings, "You should be able to use it for five years."
Of course, the food has to be yummy.
Some moms, like Bettinna Carlos, put more effort in preparing the food.
Part of her Instagram caption read, "Spent 9 hours cooking! Nagsalubong ng birthday binabalakang na ko! But of course more than happy to feed the family. Praise God for Noche Buena! May dahilan mag-abala!
"French Onion Soup. Apple Arugula Pecan Salad. Lemon Cream Halibut. Crispy Roast Chicken with Gravy (super crispy parang pan fried!!!). Prime Roast Rib-which was too rare for my family so decided to slice and pan grill for 5 seconds per side to make it medium doneness. Served with Jus and Savory Roasted Sweet Potato Masherole. And for dessert: NY Cheesecake na burnt top, hindi na siya puti so decided to name it FilAm Cheesecake instead hehehe.
"Also made sautéd garlic spinach and kale rice-no photos sorry!"
The 8-p.m. dinner became 10:30 p.m., but looking at the photos of the dishes she prepared, everything was worth the wait.
Happy gave a suggestion for those who have no time to do an elaborate table setting.
"Use a smaller table, and make the dishes the main attraction. Again, invest in plates and food containers," she advised.
Meanwhile, in case you want to know the dishes served on the tables of your favorite stars, check these out.
Noche buena is "turkey time" at the home of Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo.
Michelle van Eimeren was in charge of the feast for the Alcasids.
The sugpo caught the attention of her Instagram followers.
Sharon Cuneta had their handa catered.