socal, I'm the last person who should be giving advice on centerpieces and I'm sure others will jump in here to help. How about stacking plates? And if you have room for decos scattered around the buffet you could use more of whatever your theme is for the stacking plates. Look at Karen's (purplemoon) inspiration album or just do a search of this site for pics of stacking plates at Christmas time.

How do I find Karen's album?

Here are two HGTV Design on a Dime segments.
I'll post one here and one in the next post.
I can't say that I see a centerpiece in either, but maybe it will spark an idea or two.
I think the colors (notice the red and lime-y green instead of the true green-green) and the metal trees are what give me that 50s-60s feeling the most. Also, there seems to be a bit of an austereness (is that a word?) about the whole thing. It's not very soft. You may not want that feeling for a Christmas party, but it does seem to be part of mid-century design.
Oooo. I don't really know what I'm saying.
The light boxes in this first link were awesome when I saw them on TV and I've always thought I'd make some for New Year's Eve if I ever gave a NYE party again.

Here is a link that might be useful: Retro Holiday Style

Here's the second link. Notice the off-beat colors again.

Here is a link that might be useful: Rat Pack Christmas

Use this link. Click on Christmas on the left of the page. Bookmark this page. You'll use it a lot!

Here is a link that might be useful: Inspiration Album

If it's a Retro-Christmas themed party, how about ordering a few (copies of) toys from that era and using them as a centerpiece? Perhaps interspersed with shiny glass ornaments in colors that would coordinate. I was just looking at a catalog yesterday (can't find it at the moment), but seeing pics of the Slinky Dog, Lincon Logs, Chatty Cathy doll, and so many more (there were lots of them and the prices were reasonable), brought back many happy Christmas memories.
I think they'd be a great conversation starter at a huge party like that, as they do bring back good memories for people.
Lynn

Lincoln Logs!

How about Retro Christmas Movie posters in 8 by 11 size backed in cardboard, running down the length of the table? You could probably run them off yourself if you have access to a colored printer. Arrange them at different heights, add candles, and scatter some Shiny Brites among them.
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Oh my gosh... I think I have found my decorating sisters. The photos are truly inspirational. I know that no one here will ever say to me "Who really notices decorations anyway, I'm to busy talking to people" I look forward to "visiting" with all of you in the future.

When I think of that time period, I always think of the aluminum tree with the rotating light that made it change colors. Loved those trees!

You know you need to serve at least one Jello mold too--those were so popular back then. ;o)

Good luck with your party, I'm sure you will bring some cheer to all your friends. And please extend my heartfelt thanks to your DH for his service to his country and all of us. God bless you both.

Luvs

Luvs, that's a kick. I still serve a "Christmas Jello Salad" that my mom made every Christmas.

I'm really giving a lot of thought to the stacked plate idea.
I have a paper mache Santa dated 1942 that I could use as a topper or I also have the tree finial. I'm going to look back through the posts on where to but and how to secure together.
Again a big thanks to everyone. I'll post pics when I complete the table.