Sometimes a pile of fallen leaves is just a pile of fallen leaves… and sometimes it is the inspiration behind a simple Thanksgiving table setting.
I wandered out into the front yard last week and stared at the farmhouse table under the oak tree
that was completely covered in oak leaves.
As were the chairs. And the entire patio.
And instantly, I was inspired to set the table and take a few photos.
Because…that is what normal people do when they see a patio covered in leaves right?
🙂
I was thinking autumn. Thanksgiving.
Something warm and cozy and fall-ish.
And so I played for a bit- and decided to share a few tips for setting an
inspired table for Thanksgiving.
5 style ideas for an Inspired Thanksgiving table
#1. Think Outside the Box…or just think outside
Most folks think of Thanksgiving tables inside in the traditional dining room.
Which is totally fine- it is called a dining room for a reason-right?
But when thinking of an inspired place to host Thanksgiving- think outside.
Whether you are in the country or in the city-
take a look at what is just outside your door – but with a fresh look.
Especially this year with Thanksgiving looking a little different- setting a table up outside is perfect.
Weather permitting of course and I realize that not all areas of the country will be able to be outside hosting a gathering in November- but if you are in one of those areas that can- it is a perfect time to set up.
That old palm tree in the corner
the rustic shed or even the fence that separates you from your neighbors-and that oak tree that is a nuisance with all those leaves that drop- but that also looks so inviting-
those all can be great backdrops for an inspired setting.
My husband was going to rake the leaves off the patio
and I asked him to wait until after I set the table here.
#2. Light up the night
One of my favorites for any setting- the twinkles.
Bring on those candles -I like to shop the dollar stores but they don’t always have them in white and simple glass- but I found this set -which is a great one– and
inexpensive to load up on and create a grouping.
I like to use 2 or 3 different sizes – but keep them cohesive in the color and glasses containers.
And of course- those string lights.
Above the table, along the fence, on the porch and patio- they are great for adding everywhere.
#3. Keep it Simple
Because, Thanksgiving is full of warm laughs and warm food
and a messy kitchen with a sink piled high with dishes…
so keep the place settings simple.
Simple white dishes or a single plate rather than 4 layers.
Mismatched stemware
and grab that collection of silver flatware that is stashed away-
and leave it tarnished. A little scandalous- I know! haha. 🙂
Your table doesn’t need to have pristine stacks of elegant china, polished silver and 3 glasses for each place setting to be elegant.
#4. Go Bold
A super simple idea for giving your table a completely different look with just a quick change
is to swap your usual stemware for a bold colored glass.
Whether vintage or new – they completely change the look of the table instantly.
#5. Add simple elegance
Whether you choose an elegant place setting on repeat,
a lovely bouquet of specialty flowers
or add a delicious touch to the table with velvet linens- simple elegant touches
create a warm and cozy feeling and with a touch of luxury or grandeur.
Think velvet- or elegant ruffled linen for your cloth.
You can find our natural linen ruffle cloths in the shop-
we have a handful left.
#6. Set up Several Smaller Tables
Create some space in between each other by setting up several smaller tables for families to dine at. Several tables on the lawn or on the porch under the overhang can be quite charming with matching flowers and pretty settings.
Or you can also seat guests a bit apart by leaving a chair in between each one. Not ideal- I know- but if it means you can get together with family-then it can work well.
#7. Create Unique Place Cards for each Guest
Place cards always make a table feel extra special- and creating something special for each guest is a fun thing to do.
You can incorporate a beautiful flower to take home, a small gift or even something special like a mini box of chocolates or ornament for their Christmas tree.
These simple Reindeer ornament place cards are so fun and easy to make.
For more ideas about
I hope this helps give you some ideas for setting an inspired table for your guests this Thanksgiving
and for everyday occasions too.
I have sone outside THANKSGIVING for years. I worked on a street with GORGEOUS trees full of fall leaves; just collect them and set them under books for a few days to flatten out. Use as coasters for stemware or strewn across tAbles as the bottom layer of your tablescape.
All gorgeous ideas. Thank you.