The Thanksgiving Checklists & Inspiration for the perfect gathering.
Don't let the pressure of the perfect table setting get to you! We are here to help get you started in the right direction and organized. Whether you are going rustic or fancy this Thanksgiving, we have you covered with just a few quick ideas to help you get you in the Thanksgiving spirit.
These TIPS will help you create a stunning and personalized tablescape that will have your guests passing the gravy with a side of compliments. 🍁
PLUS, our printable Invitation & Shopping lists will help you stay organized and stress free!
Creating a Cozy Thanksgiving Atmosphere
This Thanksgiving, bring the warmth of the harvest season to your table with a traditional and rustic setting. Combine natural elements, deep autumnal hues, and timeless patterns to establish a welcoming environment for loved ones to gather and express gratitude.
Elevate your Thanksgiving Dinner with a Refined Table Setting
Create a sophisticated ambiance at your Thanksgiving feast with an elegant table setting. A well-planned centerpiece, refined silverware, fine china, and crystal glassware all contribute to a formal and respectable atmosphere that honors holiday traditions.
Family Style Casual Thanksgiving
Embrace the warmth of Thanksgiving with a traditional and rustic table setting that pays homage to the harvest season and your own family traditions. Natural elements, rich autumn colors, and classic patterns come together to create an inviting space for friends and family, to give thanks and remember our loved ones.
Tablecloth and Runners:
Opt for a jute or linen tablecloth with a simple plaid or gingham runner to add texture.
Centerpiece:
Create a focal point using fall foliage, pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal decorative items.
Place Settings:
Use earthenware or stoneware plates with simple patterns or solid earth tones.
Napkins:
Cloth napkins in burnt orange, deep red or golden yellow, any color you love that celebrates fall. Finish off with decorative napkin ring if you like, you can find cute shapes of pine ones, pumpkins, or leaves or simply just tie them with twine.
Flatware:
Go with traditional everyday silverware or for something different buy collected silverware from antiques stores - they do not need to match to be appreciated!
Glasses:
Simple glassware for a casual rustic look with a vintage design or color, and you can pick up great wine glasses at the dollar store.
Place Cards:
Handwritten on Kraft paper or small chalkboards nestled among pinecones, leaves or just candles. Place card holders can be fun too. Here is the ones I had had for over 20 Years!
Candles:
Groupings of pillar candles or lanterns for soft, ambient lighting, they have amazing battery operated candles these days so take a look for those too.
Natural Accents:
Scatter acorns, pinecones, and small twigs around the table for a forest-floor effect. BE SURE TO inspect ANY GREENERY you collect in nature for little critters! You can place them in your bathtub for a few days first, you can even give them a gentle rinse.
Favors:
Small jars of homemade preserves or a bundle of cinnamon sticks tied with twine would be just lovely. I think this year I am going to give small jars of honey. For a special treat.
Chairs:
Consider using mismatched wooden chairs or benches to enhance the rustic feel, or little back lumbar pillows in a beautiful autumn color.
The Elegant Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is right around the corner and we can already smell the pumpkin pies baking! Remember, a beautifully set table is like a well-thought-out outfit: it’s all in the details. From the linens to the flatware, every element should work together to create a beautiful look that reflects your style and the vibe of your gathering. We know with these tips, this will be a Thanksgiving to remember!
Tablecloth and Runners:
High-quality linen or damask in neutral color, satin, velvet, or fine linen.
Centerpiece:
Low fresh flowers (roses, lilies), Greenery and berry sprigs.
Place Settings:
Fine china with gold/silver rim, chargers beneath plates, stacked china for multiple courses in coordinating or complimentary colors.
Napkins:
Quality cloth, neatly folded, ornate napkin rings.
Flatware:
This is the time to get out Grandma’s silver! Get out the polish and create some sparkle and feel of those days as a kid when you use to gather for family Thanksgiving.
Glasses:
Crystal stemware (for white/red or champagne), water goblets and wine glasses.
Place Cards:
Cute place card holders or hand written notes laid on top of the plate.
Heavyweight paper or even little take home frames with their name or picture!
Candles:
Get out all your best candles for this one. Line them up randomly in a line, high and low candles of all shapes and sizes in white and coordinating colors of your decor.
Favors:
I love to write hand written notes to each guest as to why I am grateful for them. You can include a small box of chocolates or a tiny take home candle as well.
Chairs:
Consider using small festive back pillows or for cooler weather a fall throw.
THE THANKSGIVING CHECKLIST YOU NEED!
SHOPPING LIST - INVITE LIST - TABLE SETTING & Bonus TIPS