As fall wraps around us with its crisp air and dark evenings, I’m a bit sad to say goodbye to the warm summer evenings. But there’s something comforting about snuggling up in a cozy blanket that makes me happy.
This time of year is all about family, love, and excitement as the holidays are upon us. Many of us are busy planning Thanksgiving dinners with loved ones. So this year, I wanted to design a tablescape that is simple and captures the essence of fall – without going overboard on the orange. If you’ve followed my work over the years, you know I love timeless design. Recently, I finished a large home remodel for a client, complete with a custom dining table, and it was the perfect opportunity to dress it up for Thanksgiving.
Here are some tips to create your own Thanksgiving tablescape.
1 – Pick Your Color Scheme
Start by choosing a color scheme that works for you. I recommend finding an inspiration photo to guide you. Keep it simple and try not to overthink it. For my tablescape, I chose a neutral palette: White dinner plates paired with black salad plates for a subtle contrast. When thinking about linens, consider a table runner, table cloth, chargers, and napkins.
2 – Use What You Have
I don’t recommend buying all new items. Look through your cabinets or storage to see what you have that you can work with. I reused the candlesticks from my mantel, and we had white plates, napkins, flatware, clear glasses, and candle sticks. Remember, not everything has to match perfectly to look cohesive. I mixed black elements with various shades of brass for added depth.
3 – Layer Up
Adding layers are key to creating a full, inviting tablescape without overwhelming it with too many elements. I started with a table runner, then made a greenery garland for the centerpiece, layering candlesticks, small pumpkins, and votive candles. We also stacked plates at each setting for a rich, layered look.
4 – Invest in Items to Make a Big Impact
You don’t need to splurge on everything, but a few carefully chosen items can make a big impact. For example, the amber glasses I purchased were inexpensive, but transformed the overall feeling of the tablescape. You could also invest in new napkins or salad plates since they site on top of the place setting. Even candlesticks in a fun new color would make a statement.
5 – Add Mood Lighting
Lighting plays a huge role in setting the mood. We added a couple of different layers using votive candles nestled within the greenery, and taller candlesticks at varying heights. The soft candlelight adds warmth and enhances the overall atmosphere of your fall table.
6 – Go Natural
Rather than a large floral arrangement, I chose greenery to keep things simple and understated. I ordered two bunches of seeded eucalyptus from Tammy’s Floral in Hood River, watched a YouTube tutorial, and made a quick garland using string and floral wire. It took about 45 minutes to create, and the best part is that you can make it a couple of days ahead – the greenery lasts for several days and still looks nice even as it dries.
Thanksgiving is also a great time to incorporate pumpkins and gourds, which are abundant this time of year. I found these little pumpkins while I was in Portland’s Trader Joe’s for a great price.
No matter what your tablescape looks like, I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with love, friendship, and lasting memories with those you cherish most.