A Thanksgiving to Remember: Setting the Stage for a Memorable Holiday

You may have your Thanksgiving menu planned to a “T” – but have you carefully considered the table décor?

To me, the aesthetic appeal of a table is almost as important as what you serve. A beautifully appointed table is a work of art that requires careful planning and consideration. It is also much easier to achieve than you might think. Whether you are entertaining two guests or 25, following are some simple ideas, which are sure to impress your visitors and make your Thanksgiving an extra special one:

• Choose the right color palette. This will set the tone for your table setting. For Thanksgiving, I love to use a background of marigold yellow accented by harvest colors such as rich burgundy, clarender red, au chocolate and pale crème brulee.
• Create a commanding centerpiece. As an example, a centerpiece could consist of at least seven to 10 candelabras with white taper candles – lit prior to guests’ arrival – and set atop a brightly colored table runner. This can also be placed at the center of a round table.  A dramatic focal point always sparks lively conversation!
• Use large-scale florals in either one or two strong fall colors, and accent them with large white mums, bringing focus to your overall palette. Accompany these with large waxy maple leaf branches. Simple sunflowers mixed with white and deep red mums make an outstanding focal piece.

  

• Accentuate with plenty of fresh, natural elements. For example, incorporate pumpkins, gourds, berries or fresh fruit atop a bed of maple leaves into your centerpiece, or on a smaller scale, on a place setting.
• Use sparkling glassware as much as possible illuminating a shimmery combination with the candlelight!
• Invest in a few pieces of quality holiday China. I love Anna Weatherley’s hand-painted botanicals or a piece or two of antique Majolica.

  

• Always use cloth napkins in fun fall colors. These work well when accompanied by a fresh flower in the napkin ring. Or depending on your China, use printed linens, with a whimsical fall motif such leaves or berries.
• Personalize each place setting. Tie a carefully written name card to each napkin ring, or place a miniature pumpkin at each place setting and cut a slit into the top and slip in a name card – try alternating white and orange pumpkins for a festive touch.
• For a quick decorating fix and to infuse more holiday flair, dress up your chairs with handsome slipcovers, or ask children to hand make personalized Thanksgiving cards and affix them to each chair with a double up ribbon tie.
• Place photo albums on coffee tables to encourage trips down memory lane among your guests.
• Always send guests home with a memorable gift. For the Thanksgiving holiday, fun ideas might include a bag of jellybeans in fall colors, a specialized bag of coffee beans or a personal recipe.
• Most importantly, keep your decorations consistent and simple – with an element of drama.

However you set your table – whether formal or whimsical – remain true to your own personal style and personality. A warm, inviting setting and décor will help spark camaraderie and generate memories for years to come.