How to Set the Perfect Thanksgiving Table

Setting the perfect thanksgiving table can be easier than you think. Read on for our top simple tips on how to create a stunning thanksgiving tablescape. 

Are you ready to impress your Thanksgiving Day guests with a beautifully set table? Setting the perfect Thanksgiving table can be easier than you think.

Read on for our top tips on how to create a stunning Thanksgiving spread. From choosing the right dinnerware to setting a festive tablescape, we’ll make sure you have everything you need to wow your guests this holiday season. 

The perfect Thanksgiving dinner starts with a gorgeous table. The good news is that you don’t have to be an interior designer or event planner to create these Thanksgiving table setting ideas.

Are you ready to impress your Thanksgiving guests with a beautiful Thanksgiving table?

Easy Tips for Decorating a Thanksgiving Dinner Table

Start with a clean slate

Before you begin laying out your dishes and utensils, make sure your dining room table is clean and free of any clutter. This will help everything appear more organized and put-together. If you have a tablecloth, now is the time to put it on. 

Choose a Centerpiece That Attracts the Attention

When setting a table, it’s important to have a gorgeous centerpiece as the focal point in the middle of the table. A beautiful centerpiece can really elevate your table and give it a festive feel. The dining table is the perfect place to showcase your creativity by using an interesting centerpiece. 

You can use fruits, flowers or anything else you already have around the house to create a beautiful display. ​​You can go for something traditional, like a cornucopia filled with fall fruits and vegetables, make a floral centerpiece or get creative with a unique display.

No matter what you choose, just make sure it’s not too tall or bulky so that it prevents guests from being able to see and talk to each other across the table. 

Pay Extra Attention to Place Settings

A personalized place card is a great way to make your dinner guests feel extra special. The best part about these customized plates is how intimate they can be – perfect for an occasion where you want people to enjoy their time with the ones closest around them! 

Choose the napkins you want to use

Cloth napkins or linen napkins are one of the best ways to add color and show off your personal style at your next Thanksgiving feast. You can keep them folded or unfolded or use napkin rings, depending on what you prefer.

Pick colors that coordinate well with other pieces in the room, as well ones which will match nicely against any dishes used during meal time. The napkin goes either on top of the plate or underneath the forks depending on what look you’re going for. 

Layer Your Dinnerware 

Start with a charger or large dinner plates and then layer on smaller salad plates or bread plates. Use different materials and textures for interest – try your fine china mixed with stoneware or porcelain white plates mixed with colored glassware. Don’t forget about dessert! Smaller dessert dishes or bowls can be added to the mix. 

Your holiday table setting should go as the following: the dinner fork is always on the left side of the plate and knives and spoons are on the right side of the plate. Glasses should be above the knife on the right side of the plate. 

Mix Patterns and Colors Without Hesitation

One of the first things you’ll want to do when setting the table is choose a color scheme. This doesn’t mean that everything has to match perfectly, but it will help create a cohesive look. You can choose 2-3 different colors that complement each other or go with a classic fall color palette like orange, yellow, and red. Don’t let tradition get in the way of creativity and don’t be afraid to experiment. 

Once you’ve settled on your color scheme, choose table linens — a tablecloth, a Thanksgiving table runner, or placemats — in colors that complement your chosen palette. 

Accent with Seasonal Elements 

Now that the basics are in place, it’s time to add some finishing touches! Try scattering around some greenery, berries, mini pumpkins or small pumpkins, a sprig of rosemary or thyme for an extra pop of color and flavor.

A few well-placed natural elements from the Fall season and Thanksgiving decorations will do the trick and really make your tablescape stand out with texture and dimension.

Set the mood with candles or string lights. 

Last but not least, don’t forget about ambiance! Candles are always a good choice for setting the mood at any dinner party. If you’re worried about open flames around small children or pets, consider using battery-operated candles or string lights instead. These will provide enough light for everyone to see their food without being too bright or overwhelming.

Finally and the most important thing: take a deep breath and enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving celebration and spending time with your friends and family.