With just a little over 6 weeks before Thanksgiving, we have tablescapes on our mind. From elegant to rustic and everything in between, we have a love of setting a beautiful table. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family dinner or a large gathering for family and friends, we have the tips to make your preparation easier, and everything you need to create that effortlessly elegant Thanksgiving tablescape.
1. Scrap the Big Centerpiece of Flowers and Let Your Turkey Take Center Stage
A floral arrangement often blocks the view across the table, so why not let the turkey be the centerpiece? You’ve spent hours preparing the main dish so we think it’s only natural that it should take center stage.
Delectably golden brown and roasted with rich savory herbs and spices, your turkey is a showstopper all on its own. With the delicious aroma you’ll have a mouth-watering aroma that will have your guests ready to eat in no time!
2. Incorporate Nature Inspired Patterns and Textures
Take the opportunity to bring out your seasonal favorites. A deer or bird patterned china paired with antler flatware creates a chic and sophisticated table while embracing the autumnal theme.
We love how The Enchanted Home styled this look by pairing the large silver chargers with bird plates to enhance the entire tablescape. Add a sprig of fresh cedar and a small pinecone to each place setting for a special organic touch – perfect for the holiday!
3. Add Candlelight to Set the Mood
Nothing is quite as inviting as the flicker of candles so eliminate the overhead light and embrace the beauty of candles. These green tapers in brass holders used in the stunning home of Shea McGee of Studio McGee and McGee & Co not only add ambiance, but they also add height to the table creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
4. Mix Casual and More Formal Elements for the Ultimate High-Low Look
One of the best parts of setting the dining table is you don’t always have to follow the rules. Designers love pairing old and new, and high and low when it comes to decorating.
Your family crystal paired with gold flatware and white china are the perfect juxtaposition to the more whimsical turkey tablecloth in the Williams Sonoma designed table. This keeps the fun and lightness in the occasion without taking itself too seriously.
5. Embrace the Look of the Relaxed Tablecloth
A tablecloth does not have to be crisp and starched to set a beautiful table. In fact, in a more casual setting, heavily starched linens can feel uninviting.
We especially love this look for an outdoor table like this one from Terrain. Pressing without starching allows a natural flow to the fabric that drapes beautifully. This look feels instantly welcoming and encourages conversation long after the meal is complete.
To get this look, Martha Stewart Home suggests even leaving parts of the table bare for a natural, organic look. We couldn’t agree more! This grounds the table and allows your Thanksgiving decor to be the absolute showstopper.
Whatever your decorating style, now that the table is set… The turkey is basted… all that’s left to do is count our blessings! And, when we think of what we are most thankful for this holiday season, YOU, our fabulous readers, are among the top of the list!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thank you so much for visiting Design Chic. We always love seeing you here!
Welcome to Peachtree Bluff: a cozy coastal town where family secrets refuse to be washed away by the tide and close-knit community is everything. As New York Times bestselling author Kristy Woodson Harvey reunites the Murphy crew just in time for pumpkin spice season, “we dare you not to wish you were a member of this family” (E!).
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