dressing the table: Tips for inspirational fall dining
With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, we hope to inspire you to get creative and have fun with one of the smaller (yet often overlooked) elements of holiday preparations: dressing the table. I’ll admit that there are many times when I feel too busy or tired to even think about creating pretty place settings. Weeknights, in particular, can be tough as we scramble to eat dinner in between after-school activities, homework and the nightly routine. However, on those occasions when I do put forth a little effort, I’m always pleasantly surprised by how much my daughters seem to enjoy the extra attention devoted to mealtime. My eight-year old has even started insisting that we eat in the dining room, and she likes to be the one to choose the plates, glasses and silverware.
I’ve realized that a properly set table, including candlelight and flowers, sends the signal that it’s time to relax and enjoy the meal and each other’s company. Dinners in the dining room tend to last a little longer than those eaten at the kitchen island. They also entail more stories, more laughter and more connection. Isn’t that what we’re all craving after so many months of social distancing? This Thanksgiving we’re looking forward to setting a table that entices family and friends to linger a little longer. Read on for some ideas to make your holiday table feel special.
Set the Table & Set the Mood: Ten Tips for Dressing Your Thanksgiving Table
- Create a pretty foundation with a patterned tablecloth or runner.
- Consider mixing and matching plates and glassware in complimentary colors and patterns to achieve a collected look.
- Instead of one over-sized centerpiece that can obstruct conversation, opt for an assortment of smaller arrangements for your table.
- Think beyond flowers and incorporate seasonal produce, herbs or small houseplants into your table decor.
- Light the candles! Scatter an array of unscented votives and/or tapers around your table.
- Involve children by asking them to create custom place cards for a hand-made touch.
- Ditch the disposable paper napkins, and take the time to neatly press your table linens.
- Surprise your guests with a little favor at each place setting. (Fancy chocolates or candies are easy options. Or, get sentimental with a personalized note that says why you’re grateful for each guest.)
- If weather permits, consider setting an alfresco Thanksgiving table. Strategically-placed heaters or an outdoor fireplace can make this feasible for cooler climates. Keep a basket of cozy throw blankets nearby.
- Set the table a day in advance so that no detail is overlooked. You’ll be thankful for one less thing on your plate come Thanksgiving day.
The Roost Finds
Dana
Hi Lori,
I absolutely love your ideas! What a great way to make guests feel welcomed and appreciated. I particularly like the idea of little notes or favors; such a wonderful touch! I’m looking forward to incorporating your ideas into Thanksgiving!
Lori Winkler
DanaWonderful! So glad you enjoyed it!
Tom W.
Love it!
Anne Marie Nail
Loving the Thanksgiving table ideas. Getting home late from a trip so I’ll be hunting & gathering in my own home for table decor, thanks for the tips! Anne, XO