thanksgiving table settings…

this past week, i taught a mini class on three different styles you could use to set your table for thanksgiving…
the nice part of this, i’m totally prepared now!

a little re-cap:

• start by choosing a table cloth or table runner. try using fabric, sheets, paper, or gift wrap in place of traditional tablecloths – it gives you more variety to choose from & is usually less expensive!
• next, plan a centerpiece. This can be traditional, or an activity for the guests. Your guests will feel extra welcomed if they are aware that you have thought about them beforehand. This includes the place cards! Keep in mind: you don’t have to put names on the place cards, you can use a greeting, or topics/questions for conversation.

{traditional}
i used christmas lights wrapped under tulle down the center of the table for fun festive lighting.  the flowers were all from costco & i re-arranged them in to small square glass vases.

• Lighting. Using candles, lanterns, or xmas lights instantly creates an inviting, warm atmosphere.
• favors – I prefer to incorporate something that will remind your guests long after they leave what a special evening they had – for example: a polaroid photo, a printed recipe card of a dish being served., a treat. Keep it simple & thoughtful.

{rustic}
this look can be very affordable, since many of your supplies can be found on a walk in nature!
the ‘rustic wood place card holders’ {i’m still dying over these!} can be found here. burlap table runners, here.

• Need more ideas? Check out pinterest for endless ideas, here. If you are new to pinterest, it is an online virtual pinboard. that lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the great WWW. People use pinboards to plan weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes. Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people. Browsing pinboards is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests. Not sure where to start? Feel free to check out my boards here.
• Do you feel like you don’t have enough time to create the extra special touches, or you are not “creative” enough to put together all the special touches? Not to worry! Check out this. new to etsy? It is an online handmade/vintage market featuring thousands of artists who can help! Go on etsy, and search for “Christmas placecards” or whatever you may be looking for and you will find endless options to fit almost any budget. Also, like pinterest, etsy is a great resource for ideas!

{vintage/modern}
this look is a fun, darling twist on the traditional look.  the paper mustache place cards can be found here.  the stache straws, here.
i also had my polaroid camera sitting at this table, so guests could use the stache straws as a fun photo op!

and, last but not least! {the kids table!}
i love the look of brown kraft paper, and try to use it whenever possible…

kids turkey place cards, right here!

cheers to memorable dining!