From centerpieces and place settings to place cards and napkin rings, you can bring your own brand of creativity and whimsy to the Thanksgiving table. Impress your guests with your crafty side while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your holiday dinner. Check out these decorations you need to make Thanksgiving a success this year!
The Centerpiece
The center of your table is the focal point of the whole meal. Here is where you can truly shine in your creativity. HGTV recommends looking to nature for easy, elegant ways to incorporate the colors of fall through the use of gourds, pumpkins, and even pears. Simply scatter these elements throughout the center line of the table. Or, if you prefer to keep everything in one spot, create a floral centerpiece in a large vase or bowl filled with berries, mini pumpkins, pine cones and blooms of red, orange and yellow flowers. Strike a contrast by using ice blue place mats for unexpected emphasis.
Candles are always a great way to add ambiance and warmth to a room. Place thick candles in deep reds and oranges at varying heights in the center of the table. If using bunches of mini pumpkins, consider weaving faux ivy garland in between them all, or curl wire vines around all the pumpkin stems. A bowl of pears in the center of the table makes a bold statement, especially when you attach paper leaves listing each thing your family is thankful for, suggests Good Housekeeping.
To make a homemade pumpkin vase, hollow out a pumpkin, place a water-filled vase inside, and fill with seasonal blooms. Give it an extra touch by adding small gold tacks up and down the ridged lines of the pumpkin. If a messy project is not on your to-do list, simply drill small holes in your pumpkins and gourds, placing berry sprigs inside each hole.
Place Cards
Instead of the standard folded card with the guest’s name on it, get creative with mini pumpkins. Add a personal touch by stringing handmade name cards on bookmarks using twine around the stem. Another idea is to use crystal candle holders as pedestals for tiny pumpkins.
Napkins and Holders
Another bold contrast is to use simple white dishes topped with crimson napkins tied with gauzy ribbon and dotted with a sprig of greens and berries. Do the opposite if you have festive plates in bold, seasonal colors by incorporating simple white napkins held together by a strip of burlap for a touch of rustic elegance.
Chairs
Chairs are often overlooked as a critical element to the Thanksgiving theme. Try dressing your chairs with large bronze bows for a luxurious seasonal twist.