How To Set A Thanksgiving Table That Wows
Knowing how to set a Thanksgiving table is an art. But anyone can do it! You spend a lot of time planning, shopping and cooking for your big Thanksgiving dinner. But how much time have you spent thinking about the actual table and presentation?
The presentation is just as important as the meal, we think. And if you’re not a great cook, a stellar presentation is the perfect way to distract and dazzle your guests.
Here’s what you need to have in order, to set a Thanksgiving table that will WOW your dinner party guests.
This site uses ads and affiliate content as an Amazon associate earning on qualifying purchases. Disclosure.
How To Set A Thanksgiving Table, Step-By-Step
Consider The Place Settings
Even if you have beautiful china, you need to layer it up a bit to make it really stand out. In just 5 simple steps you can create a perfect place setting for your guests.
- Use a charger or a placemat as your base.
- Layer your dinner plate on top of the charger.
- Place your napkin on top. Be fussy with the napkin and make sure all the ends meet together neatly.
- Add a side plate or bowl. This is your accent colour so have some fun here.
- Use a flower, piece of fruit or sprig of herb to decorate the plate.
Dress Up The Side Dishes & Desserts
Butternut squash soup can be dished up in cute pumpkin-shaped bowls. Apple or pumpkin pie can be served on copper-rimmed plates with a sprinkling of icing sugar.
We love these copper-rimmed plates, too.
Create Your Centerpiece
The centre of the table is often overlooked but this is where you can really show off your decorating prowess. It’s all about the layering of height in the center. With just a little planning and 6 simple steps, your table is set.
STEP 1 – Lay the foundation using objects that can corral objects while adding sparkle and texture.
STEP 2 – Add some height with bowls and plate stands. They can vary in height or be all the same height.
- Dublin Crystal Collection cake platter stand is perfect for any occasion.
STEP 3 – Fill the bowls and plates with decor items. This could be fruit, leaves, pinecones, moss or any other favourites you have on hand.
STEP 4 – Fill in the empty spaces with both small and large vases of flowers. If you don’t want a lot of flowers use tall branches of seasonal leaves. Use your favourite colours or use one of our 3 simple colour schemes. Just be consistent and you can’t go wrong
STEP 5 – Add candles. Use tall candlesticks and small votives to create more layers and varying heights.
STEP 6 – Add your glasses and place settings. Go for high-quality luxury glasses and dinnerware.
Add some whimsy with menu cards
If you want to add a little extra charm to your thanksgiving table this year, creating a simple thanksgiving menu for each guest’s place setting is such an easy win. Displaying a few ‘menu’ cards on the table can add a fun element to the dinner.
It’s one of those tiny touches that makes the whole table feel more thoughtful and festive, without adding a lot of extra work. A handwritten or printed thanksgiving menu card tucked onto each plate gives guests a little preview of what’s to come; and makes the meal feel even more special. You can keep it simple with kraft paper and twine, or go a little fancier with printed menus layered over linen napkins.
And voila, you have set a beautiful Thanksgiving table! One your guests will love.
Next, don’t forget to hang a beautiful Fall wreath on your front door, to set a great first impression for your guests.
