Setting the table

Good company, good food and a festive table setting make for great Thanksgiving dining. Be bold and try something new this year. Your perfectly browned turkey and signature dressing deserve the royal treatment, and with a free afternoon and some forethought, you can create a memorable holiday table worthy of the occasion.  Today I decided that I am going to use sunflowers this year!!

Your personal style will help determine your preference in table design, but whether you’re interested in formal, contemporary, romantic, retro, country or carefree dining, it pays to start with a neutral palette. Too many colorful or intricate elements can look busy unless your design has places for the eye to take a well-deserved rest. If your china has an uncomplicated pattern, it may be the perfect foil for those harlequin placemats, otherwise choose a neutral tablecloth to showcase your tablescape. I love this set up from Dwell!

Image Via: Eddie Ross/Lonny Mag

If you not into the standard usual cornucopia overflowing with fresh fruit and are watching your budget, here are a few ideas that can bring sparkle to your table. You can add luster on a budget, and you can maximize the impact by repeating or grouping elements. Instead of one huge centerpiece, try using three smaller ones in identical glass containers. Fill them with flowers, fruits, nuts, shells, floating candles, stones or anything else that will complement the other decorative elements you have in mind.

You can make the meal part of the show by incorporating food elements into your table design. , try a brightly colored quilted runner decorated with wooden bowls of fall apples, or willow vases with cat tails and autumn seed heads. Assemble an impressive bread-basket centerpiece sporting loaves in all shapes, sizes and colors. It’s a natural for Thanksgiving that’s thrifty, edible and eco-friendly.