Are you hosting Thanksgiving this year at your house? Feeling overwhelmed by all that has to get done? Take one thing off your list today and lean in while I share a few tips for a simple and beautiful Thanksgiving table. No need to arrange an impressive floral display or purchase all new leafy autumnal themed table ware. Use what you have and supplement with a few new pieces and you’ll be ready to host your family and friends this holiday season.
Here are my five tips for creating a beautiful and simple Thanksgiving table:
Tip 1: Less is More
You don’t need a giant floral centerpiece. You don’t even need a centerpiece at all (if you don’t want one!). Enjoying the people and the food are the primary goals of this day of gratitude. Leave room on your table for what matters most.
Simple is best when it comes to dishes and glasses. Go with classic if you can- I recommend avoiding the autumn themed dishes and linens that are filling the stores right now. Get something you can use for hosting and gatherings year round! I love to use all white dinnerware and then add in some colorful glassware and linens.
Here are a few of my favorites to keep your table simple and classic this year:
These gorgeous jewel tones will ad a touch of autumn with out being over the top. I love how simple yet beautiful the rich and deep colors are.
Tip 2: Don’t be afraid to Mix & Match
Yes, you can mix and match patterns and colors! The Thanksgiving table is all about abundance and gratitude. I know I said that less is more, but sometimes more actually is more too. You can create that sense of abundance with colorful table linens that are not overly matchy-matchy. Try a set of fabric napkins in colorful prints. Or what about a bold black and white checkered table cloth mixed with floral napkins? Go with colors you love and again, avoid the autumn and Thanksgiving themed pieces. If you’re going to buy something, make sure its something you love that you can use again and again!
Love your table? Try a simple table runner instead of a tablecloth. There’s no rule that says you have to have a fancy tablecloth on Thanksgiving! Here are a few of my favorite recommendations for your linens:
Bring a bit of contrast to your table. Mix this with colorful napkins and pumpkins for a festive look!
This table runner brings a boho vibe and will go with anything. Layer it with colorful napkins, candles, pumpkins, and you’ll have an ecclectic versatile table setting.
These are so pretty and even though the colors have an Autumn vibe, they don’t scream “Thanksgiving” so you could use them any time. They would look great with the black and white table cloth!
These are so pretty will definitely add to a mix and match feel of your Thanksgiving table. With their colorful vintage style, they go with anything!
Tip 3: Bring in Something Natural
Since we’re in Houston, you probably don’t have a beautiful red leafy tree in your yard this time of year to cut branches from. But I do always love incorporating something from the outdoors on my Thanksgiving table. Try a large heirloom pumpkin or mini multicolored pumpkins in a row. You can also clip fresh rosemary from the garden or pick up some flowers or eucalyptus a few days before. I also love these reuseable garlands:
So pretty and simple, this Eucalyptus Garland brings an elegant touch to your table.
For the classic autumn touch of course you need some colorful leaves! If only our trees looked like this in Houston right now! Alas, we have to settle for the fake stuff for now.
Tip 4: Make it Glowy
A little glow, whether from candlelight or twinkle lights, really goes a long way in creating that cozy ambiance we all want at our Thanksgiving table. Use taper candles in classic brass holders, tea lights in mercury glass, or even a few strings of LED battery powered twinkle lights. Here are a few of my favorites, especially these flameless flickering taper candles and tea lights- safe for even the kids’ table!
Remote controlled and battery powered, weave these twinkle lights in and around your table setting for a magical glow.
Safer than an open flame, these little flickering tea lights look like the real thing! Sprinkle them around your table setting in jars or just on their own.
These are so pretty and look like the real thing! But they won’t leave a mess of wax on your table.
Brass candlesticks are simple, classic, and beautiful. This set with its varying heights, would be perfect for the center of your table.
Tip 5: Get Crafty with the Kids
Don’t worry, I’m not going to suggest that you design and build a centerpiece or intricate napkin rings from scratch if that’s not your thing. If it is, by all means, craft away! But for those of us a little less artistically inclined, I think handmade place cards are a great way to get the kids involved. Have toddlers and preschoolers? Have them watercolor on sheets of cardstock. Then cut the cardstock into rectangles and print each guest’s name.
Have older kids that know how to write? Let them design a place card for each of your guests- they could even include a funny pictures or notes or something they’re grateful for about each person. I guarantee these will be a hit and maybe even a conversation starter for your table. And don’t forget about decor for the kids table! You can also make your dining experience interactive with placemats or a tablecloth they can color on!
This looks like so much fun to keep the little ones engaged before and during the feast. Don’t forget about the markers!
These are so cute and make great table decor for kids and adults alike! There’s even a spot for you to write in what you’re thankful for- an essential Thanksgiving day activity for all ages.
No matter where or how you celebrate Thanksgiving this year, Houston Moms wishes you the very best holiday. We are grateful for you, mommas, as you make the magic happen for those around you at your table this Thanksgiving.
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