Perhaps this is a little premature - 'we haven't even had fireworks yet!', we hear you cry. However, as we like to plan ahead at Chinasearch HQ here's a lovely red and gold seasonal tablesetting for your perusal.

There really is something special about the combination of red, white and gold - it can be bold, it can be traditional, or it can be contemporary - but it always, always brings a certain vivacity to any gathering. We've gone with classic patterns - Queen's Gate, Kensington, Saturn - Red, Raindrops and Fleur de Lys - but we have given it a fun twist with a big bow.

The bow won't last long once your guests are seated, so dress the rest of the table with a bold red cloth, a gold runner and cute ornaments, knick-knacks and miniature presents.