Create height

Your centrepiece will be the focus of the table, but you don't want it to use up valuable space. Pick candelabras or vases with narrow bases so you can still see across the table and have plenty of space for the food. Guinness, treacle and ginger puddingSet up a small table or sideboard as a bar close to your dining table. Make sure you have a selection of drinks, glasses, ice and spare napkins so you don't have to leave the table to fetch extra refreshments. Christmas dinner wouldn't be the same without a glorious steamed pudding. To make sure yours is ready to serve up on time, and to save hob space for your veggies, you can reheat your pudding in a slow cooker. Plug your slow cooker in (in another room if you want to save counter space) and half fill with boiling water. Place your pudding in the slow cooker and leave to steam for at least 2 hours or for up to 4 hours. We love this dark and fruity Guinness, treacle and ginger pud.