10 Tips for Decorating a Stunning Thanksgiving Table

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Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. One of the most delightful aspects of this holiday is setting a beautiful table to gather around and create lasting memories. Whether you're hosting a large Thanksgiving feast or an intimate gathering, decorating your table can set the tone for a memorable celebration. In this blog post, we'll share ten tips to help you create a stunning Thanksgiving table that will leave your guests in awe.

1. Choose a Theme:

Fall tablescape with green candles, pinecones, and plaid table cloth

Selecting a theme for your Thanksgiving table decor can help guide your choices and create a cohesive look. Classic autumn themes like "Harvest," "Rustic," or "Vintage" are popular choices. You can also get creative and mix and match themes to suit your personal style. I also like to create a theme based on the pattern in the dishes you are using, if there is a pattern. This is a great place to start for inspiration. And definitely browse around Pinterest for even more ideas.

2. Start with a Solid Foundation:

A well-chosen tablecloth or table runner can serve as the foundation for your table decor. Consider earthy colors like deep red, burnt orange, or forest green to set the mood for a cozy Thanksgiving atmosphere. If your dishes have a pattern, pull one of the colors from them to use in your table cloth and/or runner. But don’t be afraid to incorporate colors from your dishes that aren’t traditional Thanksgiving colors! Make it special and unique to you. Here are a few that I love:

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3. Incorporate Natural Elements:

Fall pumpkins with oranges berries and candle

Bring the beauty of the outdoors inside by incorporating natural elements like leaves, pumpkins, pinecones, and acorns into your table decor. Use them as table centerpieces, place card holders, or scatter them on the table for an organic touch. Don’t be afraid to explore your yard but its also perfectly fine to buy decorative items as well like these:

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4. Create a Stunning Centerpiece:

Thanksgiving pumpkin and floral centerpiece and place setting, pumpkin and glass of wine.

A captivating centerpiece can be the focal point of your Thanksgiving table. Consider using a cornucopia, a floral arrangement in autumnal colors, or a combination of candles and greenery to create an eye-catching centerpiece. This is a great way to make your table feel extra special and also a way to tie in several colors from your theme. I like to visit Trader Joes and Whole Foods for beautiful, seasonal blooms and create my own arrangements. But faux florals and greens work great as well.

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5. Personalize Place Settings:

Thanksgiving place setting with fall berries and acorn and "thankful" tag on cloth napkin

Add a personal touch to your table by creating unique place settings for each guest. Consider using place cards or even small pumpkins with name tags tied to them. This adds a thoughtful and personal element to your table. Get creative! The sky is the limit on this one!

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6. Mix and Match Tableware:

Don't feel pressured to use matching tableware. Mixing and matching plates, glasses, and silverware can add visual interest and character to your table. Vintage or eclectic pieces can give your table a charming, lived-in look. Although it isn’t necessary to have nice dinnerware to host Thanksgiving, it really does elevate the meal and make it feel extra special and indulgent. And you don’t have to spend a fortune by investing in fine China. Checkout Goodwill stores, Facebook market place, and other thrift and consignment stores. You can also find beautiful dishes at Home Goods, Walmart, Amazon, etc.

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7. Play with Textures:

Texture can add depth and warmth to your table decor. Use cloth napkins, textured placemats, and seasonal elements like burlap or twine to add a tactile dimension to your table setting. This brings more interest to the table and can really elevate the look of the tablescape.

8. Illuminate with Candles:

Formal Thanksgiving table with lots of candles

Candles are an excellent way to create a warm and inviting ambiance on your Thanksgiving table. Choose pillar candles, tea lights, or candlesticks in fall colors, and place them strategically on your table for a soft, cozy glow.

Tip: Make sure to get unscented candles. When you’re eating at the table, you will want to smell the delicious feast and not a fall scented candle! Also, if you have small children or would prefer a flameless candle, Amazon has some great ones! Check them out below with the remote.

9. Don't Overcrowd:

While it's fun to decorate your Thanksgiving table, remember not to overcrowd it. Leave enough space for serving dishes, glasses, and, most importantly, for your guests to enjoy their meal comfortably.

Floral pumpkin Thanksgiving centerpiece and place setting

10. Set up early:

Its a great idea to start your table set up in advance, even weeks in advance! This will give you time to play around with your decor and make any changes to place settings that are necessary. And allows you some extra days to enjoy your work! Not to mention, its one less things you need to worry about with all your other Thanksgiving prep!

Decorating a Thanksgiving table is a delightful way to set the stage for a memorable holiday gathering. By following these ten tips and infusing your personal style and creativity, you can create a stunning Thanksgiving table that not only looks beautiful but also makes your guests feel truly appreciated and thankful. Happy decorating, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!