By Kim Schneider, Coastal Design by Kim
Thanksgiving will be here before we know it. If you’re anything like me, your brain is wrapped around a family/friends get-together, turkey, football and gratitude for our everyday pleasures. Dedicating a season to “thankfulness” warms our soul, yet can be hectic at the same time.
Before your home is filled with loquacious company, football cheers and kids bouncing about, let’s start thinking about setting the table. Pulling together your table should be inviting and maintain a wow-factor without overwhelming YOU or your guest.
Nothing says welcome like a beautiful table setting. Let’s get started!
1. Keep It Simple: Most Thanksgiving memories are spent around the table with good conversation and delectable eats. Creating a low centerpiece allows everyone to see one another across the table. Keeping it simple and low can be very elegant. But, if your heart is set on a tall centerpiece, try using a glass vase to create an open feel. NOTE: Always use unscented candles so they don’t compete with the food. We’ve waited all year to enjoy these Thanksgiving aromas.
2. Change the Color Scheme: Yes, it’s autumn, but you don’t have to use traditional fall colors. We live near the Gulf and it’s perfectly okay to embrace a coastal theme. You can utilize natural elements with a neutral color scheme by selecting “white pumpkins” with simple vintage maritime items and shells. You can also add splashes of corals and blue hues to add a pop of color to your table. Metallic pops work, too.
3. Create a Fun Centerpiece: At this time of year, pumpkins, gourds, winter squash, pomegranates and crisp autumn leaves are plentiful and look great together. Layer them in different shapes, colors and sizes for a unique (and edible) centerpiece.
4. Mix and Match Your Patterns: Do you have multiple sets of dishes? Mix and Match them to create an eclectic look. You can use your traditional china and combine them with your everyday dishes to create a contrast. It will allow you twice the amount of table settings and creates a unique look. We all love a wow-factor!
5. Place Cards: Personalize your table with place cards by creating nametags and attaching them to fruits and gourds (don’t be afraid to spray paint them to match your color scheme). You can place them atop or to the side of each place setting. Your guests will feel special and appreciate your creativity.
6. Kids Table: If you’re lucky enough to have a kids table, make it a fun one! Keep them entertained by storing crayons, stickers and other art supplies in empty cans you used to create your Thanksgiving meal (like cranberries, corn and pumpkin). Use butcher paper for their tablecloth. They can draw their own placemat and decorate their place card holder too!
The above steps are simple and can be done ahead of time. Circle a day on the calendar so you can create your table-scape early and enjoy your decorated space before opening the door to your Thanksgiving guests. Don’t stress, YOU got this! It’ll be beautiful and your company will be delighted with your clever decorating ideas. Wishing YOU and yours a Happy Thanksgiving. Let’s eat!
Contact me at kim@coastaldesignbykim.com or (850) 904-6622 or visit CoastalDesignbyKim.com.
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