Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays—it’s about gathering with loved ones and creating a warm, welcoming space to celebrate gratitude. This year, I’m excited to share my tips for setting an effortlessly elegant Thanksgiving table that feels both timeless and fresh.
Whether you’re hosting for a crowd or an intimate dinner, this guide will inspire you to blend classic pieces with affordable updates, natural elements, and warm tones that elevate your holiday table.
Start with What You Have
Your table tells a story, and some of the most meaningful details come from pieces you already own. For me, it’s my Kate Spade Larabee Dot china and crystal, cherished wedding gifts from over 16 years ago. These timeless pieces anchor my table with elegance and tradition.
Look through your collection of plates, glassware, or serving dishes for items with sentimental value. Mixing classic elements you’ve curated over the years with a few new finds will create a table that feels personal and layered. I’m still undecided if I’ll put down a table cloth or leave the natural wood from my table showing. It’s a classic debate over “do I protect the table and add more texture?” vs “do I have another piece of linen to destroy and replace?!”.
Embrace Natural Elements
Nature is the perfect starting point for a Thanksgiving table. Consider incorporating items like:
- Mini pumpkins or gourds in neutral tones.
- Fresh greenery, such as eucalyptus or magnolia leaves, draped down the center of your table.
- Seasonal fruits like pomegranates, oranges, or figs for pops of color.
- Natural materials like my hyacinth plate chargers and napkin rings from Amazon.
These organic touches are not only beautiful but cost-effective, and they bring a sense of the outdoors in.
Think Beyond Traditional Colors
While oranges and reds are synonymous with Thanksgiving, I love adding an unexpected twist to the palette. This year, I’m mixing in pink, brown, green, and gold for a modern yet cozy vibe.
For example:
- Pink: A soft blush napkin or glassware adds a feminine, chic touch.
- Brown: Wooden chargers or leather napkin rings bring warmth and grounding.
- Green: Fresh greenery or my twirl candle sticks tie everything together naturally.
- Gold: Flatware or candleholders add that perfect pop of elegance. Even my velvet pumpkins have gold painted stalks!
This color mix feels festive yet fresh, making it easy to coordinate with your existing pieces.
Add Affordable, Current Touches
Updating your table doesn’t have to be expensive. Some of my favorite sources for fresh decor include:
- Amazon: Look for affordable gold flatware, chargers, napkin rings and candles (linked below for easy shopping!).
- Local Favorites: If you’re in Charlotte, check out Laura Park and The Buttercup for gorgeous printed linens and The Buttercup for unique serving pieces that double as decor. Laura Park is offering a crazy good Black Friday deal with code BLACKFRIDAY24 so don’t sleep on those savings, honey!
Small investments (over time) can make a big impact while keeping your table on-trend. Don’t get overwhelmed with having to start over every year. Your table should tell a story that’s unique to you!
Create Layers and Height
A dynamic table feels inviting and visually interesting. To achieve this:
- Layer your plates with chargers and salad plates for dimension.
- Use candleholders in varying heights to add drama and warmth.
- Mix textures—combine glossy china with woven placemats or linen napkins. My velvet pumpkins from both Laura Park and The Buttercup give a layered texture AND color palette all at the same time!
Finishing Touches
Complete your table with a few personal touches:
- Handwritten place cards for a thoughtful detail.
- Unscented candles to create ambiance without overpowering the meal.
- A gratitude card at each setting, encouraging guests to reflect on what they’re thankful for.
- Orange tulips are an Ina Garten classic that I love to include when available.
These little extras will leave a lasting impression and make you swoon with gratitude.
Shop the Look
I’ve curated a selection of items to help you recreate this look:
- Charger Plates: Hyacinth Chargers From Amazon
- Candle Sticks: Green Twisted Candle Sticks from Amazon
- Candleholders: My gold pumpkins are from Laura Park. I’m also loving these Amazon glass holders.
- Napkins: Gauze Dainty Napkins from Amazon
- Printed Linens: Check out Laura Park and The Buttercup in Charlotte!
- Napkin Rings: Hyacinth Napkin Rings from Amazon
- Velvet Pumpkins: You can pop into Laura Park or The Buttercup for my finds. If you’re outside of Charlotte these Amazon pumpkins work great too.
- Acrylic Flatware (not pictured): Laura Park’s Acrylic Flatware makes for an iconic table
Setting an elegant Thanksgiving table doesn’t have to be complicated. By blending classic elements with fresh updates and natural touches, you’ll create a warm, inviting space that’s uniquely yours.
Do you have favorite tips for styling your holiday table? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear!
