Favorite Things: Thanksgiving Table Ideas

Whether your family is busy with a full list of activities or you have an empty nest, we don’t get the chance to gather often enough and enjoy a meal together. Here’s some ideas on how to make a typical meal special and make the most of gathering together.

1. Glassware

To keep a table from feeling to stuffy and formal but still feel special, I use a mix of vintage glassware in a variety of shapes and colors. They are inexpensive at thrift stores so even the kids at your table can use them without worry.

2. Tea towel

Fun, seasonal tea towels are an easy way to celebrate each holiday as you gather together. Use it as a serving dish towel, bar towel, or give as a gift when guests are over.

3. Seasonal salt and pepper shakers

I love to mix in a little whimsy and seasonal salt and pepper shakers can do just that. Vintage or new - either can be fun and inexpensive.

4. Dishware

I keep my dishes basic in white so they can be used for formal or casual settings but then I layer in fun, seasonal serving dishes that make an ordinary meal memorable.

5. Cocktail napkins

Cloth napkins can make a casual meal feel special and add a bit of color to your table. You can use them with drinks and appetizers before the meal or at the meal under each glass.

6. Centerpiece

Celebrate the change of seasons with a bit of the outdoors brought inside. Gather pinecones and acorns from outdoors and mix in fun colored wool acorns to make a simple but pretty centerpiece.

7. Thankfulness placecards

Want an easy but intentional way of thinking about what you thankful for? Set a placecard at each plate with a pen and everyone can take a moment to reflect on what their thankful for. Going around the table and sharing can turn into meaningful conversation. (look for my freebie printable, coming soon!)