Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, share a meal, and celebrate the blessings of the year. Whether you're hosting a large dinner or an intimate gathering, your table setting can enhance the atmosphere and create a warm, inviting space for your guests. But here's the thing—it doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. With a little creativity and love, you can use what you have at home to create something truly special.
Things I Used for My Tablescape:
Orange linen napkins
Gold chargers
Ivory tablecloth
Orange cheesecloth runner
White plasticware with a gold rim
Gold flatware
Glass water goblets
Faux eucalyptus garland
Candle sticks with orange and white taper candles
Clear vases with orange floating candles, with fresh cranberries underneath
Glass pumpkin accents
Berries
Vintage red oil lamps
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Tablescape:
Start with the Essentials: Napkins and Tablecloth
The first thing I did was iron the napkins. Trust me, don’t skip this step! Wrinkled napkins will make your table look unkempt, so take a few minutes to get them smooth and crisp.
Next, I ironed the tablecloth but you can also use a steamer of take it to your local dry cleaners. Tip: Set up your table a few days ahead of your event to let any wrinkles naturally fall out, or use Downy Wrinkle Release spray to speed things up.
Create a Larger Table if Needed
If your table isn’t big enough to seat all your guests, don’t worry! You can easily push together two 6-foot or 8-foot rectangular tables. For this setup, I used two 6-foot tables to create a wide, long table that comfortably seats 8 guests (3 on each side and 1 at each end).
Layer in Your Runner and Greenery
I started by setting the orange cheesecloth runner down the center of the table. This adds a beautiful pop of color and texture.
Then, I added the faux eucalyptus garland. It gives the table a natural, organic feel and is an easy way to bring greenery into the decor.
Set the Foundation: Chargers and Flatware
Place the gold chargers at each setting, followed by your white plastic ware with a gold rim. These little touches elevate the look without breaking the bank.
I used gold flatware to tie in with the chargers, adding a touch of elegance.
Build Depth with Candles and Accents
Insert your candle sticks into the eucalyptus garland, alternating between orange and white taper candles to create visual depth and variety.
Fill clear vases with water, drop in some fresh cranberries, and place your orange floating candles on top. The cranberries add a festive fall touch, while the floating candles provide a soft, glowing ambiance.
For an extra pop, I added glass pumpkin accents, berries, and even vintage red oil lamps to give the centerpiece more texture and fullness. You can add pinecones, tree branches, or any other natural elements that speak to the season.
Set the Goblets and China
Place the glass water goblets and set out your plates. The combination of glass and plastic ware creates a balance between elegance and practicality.
Fold and Place Your Napkins
Now, for the finishing touch on each place setting: fold your ironed napkins. I used a pocket square fold so I could slip in a Thanksgiving menu card. For a little extra embellishment, I added a small bunch of cranberries on top of the napkin. Lay the napkin, with the menu and cranberries, right on top of the plate.
Light the Candles and Voila!
Finally, light your candles, step back, and take in your gorgeous Thanksgiving tablescape. BAM! You’ve got yourself a beautiful, inviting table ready to welcome your guests.
Remember, It’s About the Love You Put Into It
The most important thing to remember is that creating a tablescape is less about perfection and more about the care and love you put into it. Whether you’re using Grandma’s China, your Aunt’s old candlesticks, or thrifted finds, it’s your personal touch that will make your guests feel welcome. If you care about it and do it with love, they’ll feel it and be wowed!
I hope this blog and my TikTok inspire you to create your own stunning Thanksgiving tablescape. Don’t forget to have fun with it—after all, Thanksgiving is all about gathering with the people you love and creating memories that last.
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