By Sarah Fertsch
Staff Writer
Thanksgiving dinner is the most important meal of the year. You could settle for plain plates and silverware on an undressed table, but consider decorating your table if you have time. Bring the wonder and joy of the season onto your holiday table, and you won’t regret it. Here are some tips to start decorating like a professional stylist:
Choose a Theme
It’s crucial that your table feels cohesive and united. Decide on how you’ll decorate your table, and perhaps pair the theme with the decor around the house. Is your home surrounded by trees? Decorate your table with natural elements, like pinecones, tree branches and autumn flowers. Is your home in the city? Make your table modern with metallic colors, sharp edges and nontraditional food (like seafood, cheese boards, or vegan alternatives). What theme works best for you?
Create a Picture-Perfect Table Setting
Make each spot look magical. You’ll want to include a plate, a smaller salad plate, a napkin (preferably cloth), a knife, fork, spoon, and a glass (champagne, wine, or regular). Follow traditional directions in regards to placing silverware. Then fold the napkin in a unique shape, placed on the smaller plate, which is placed on the bigger plate. Add a special touch, like a hand-written place card, a pine twig, or a decorative napkin ring. For a vintage vibe, use different plates or silverware so that each setting stands out from the rest.
Style a Centerpiece
Centerpieces draw the eye to the center of the table. Flowers and candles work wonderfully as centerpieces, but make sure to place everything in odd numbers to make everything feel visually balanced. Place one tall piece at the center and surround it with smaller items. You don’t want your centerpiece to be too big, or guests won’t be able to see across the table! Since it’s Thanksgiving, try incorporating fresh produce and baskets into the centerpiece to remind guests to relish the harvest season.
Use the Best Linens
Tablecloths are a must (you don’t want food bits or spilled wine on your expensive table), but consider adding a table runner and some placemats. Your runner will bring a pop of color or print to your table decor, further uniting each setting. Placemats will protect your tablecloth and add a cool detail to your setup. Layering makes the decor look luxurious and stylish.
Consider Lighting
Everything looks icky under harsh lighting (think of hospitals). What if you ate your meal in romantic lighting? Dim your chandelier bulbs and add candles to the centerpiece. Utilize lamps or fairy lights instead of blasting the overhead fluorescents. Your food and your table will look fabulous.
Embrace Bold Hues
The onset of the holiday season lends itself to brighter colors, like red, bright pink, hunter green, and deep blues. For a festive look, choose bold decor. It implies that the dinner will be lively and cheerful. Tis the season, right?
