Wow! It’s hard to believe that October is almost half way over! And it will be Thanksgiving before we know it! You know what that means…it’s time to bring the Thanksgiving Dinner Table to life!
This year, I decided to test out some new ideas for decorating the table for Thanksgiving Dinner!
My husband and I usually host Thanksgiving dinner for our families. Sometimes we host in North Carolina or in Pennsylvania. (and some home made pumpkin pie—My Dad likes to sing that song when they come up North!) Depending on where we host, I lug my favorite tablecloth, napkins and decorations back and forth with me. This way I know I have all of my familiar things with me making the occasion full of traditions wherever we may be. (another reason to pre-plan my table so I can pack what I need!)
Although a dining room is a big waste of space much of the year, I still love having it when we entertain.
There is nothing quite as special and lovely as a beautifully set table for the holidays. Even if you don’t have a separate dining table, any table can be set to look beautiful and festive!
I start with a white table cloth. I’ve had this one for over 15 years and it still looks great. The beauty of a white tablecloth is the ability to bleach it clean after a mishap, which always happens when we eat! Right? I bought this one at Williams-Sonoma along with matching white napkins. Ditto about bleaching the napkins! I also put a thick table pad under the tablecloth to help protect the table from hot plates or cold glasses.
Next, I started with a table runner down the center of the table. Then I added three hurricane lanterns (that I posted about earlier) and some candles. Hydrangeas, a few real and artificial pumpkins round out the bulk of the centerpiece. (We always serve buffet style in the kitchen so space on the table is not an issue. Plus, I’d rather look at a beautiful centerpiece!)
And what would a centerpiece be without candles for ambiance and a soft glow?
I always set the holiday table with gold charger plates. I found these at a consignment store but you can also find them on Amazon.
(Chargers also help protect the table from plates with hot food.) I’ve had the white plates and the napkin rings for several years. (all from Pier 1) The scalloped plates I bought recently at a thrift store for $1 each. The silverware is vintage and a gift from my Grandmother. The combination of silver and gold is so pretty to me! I like to set the table ahead of time so I can enjoy the look of it for a few days before company comes and it is one less thing to worry about when it’s time to cook and entertain!
I will enjoy this for a few days before the pumpkins are relocated and everything is packed up.
Artificial pumpkins and gourds are very life like now, so they are a good substitute for the real thing if you don’t want the mess or risk of real ones messing up the tablecloth.
Plus you can reuse them year after year! Hope you have a beautiful day!
