There’s something about those Thanksgiving tablescapes that make our hearts happy.
We love celebrating all things holidaisical around here, but we think it’s important to take a moment to be grateful. When we focus on that, the other things just seem to fade away.
There is something about gathering and just being still. It’s nice to do that before the holiday rush.
Sometimes, it feels like we skip over it a bit. But we like to always pause and really celebrate all things Thanksgiving, and what it means.
I was on a trip recently where we spoke with a sculptor who worked a lot with large wood pieces. She said that it was important in tall pieces, to take a moment and establish your center. Whether it meant using a level, or dropping a plumb line down the middle. Otherwise, it was impossible to achieve symmetry in the ultimate goal of the piece.
I walked away from that little session with more than just tips on how to sculpt, but a great metaphor and life lesson. In yoga, they say that a lot. Get grounded. Find your center. Sometimes, I need to stop and breathe a little.
For us, taking a step back and reflecting on the year and what it means, is what Thanksgiving is all about. There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with your favorite people, and celebrating. Or even just taking a moment to be, and releasing all the pressures that come with holidaisical expectations.
We enjoy sharing our tablescapes every year, but this year, it felt pretty special to just keep it simple.
With hints of gold and copper, paired with scalloped shapes and cool blue to contrast with the warmth.
So since it’s that time of the year, we thought it would be fun to take about all things tablescapes again, with some of our favorite tips!
1. Break the rules
If you’ve been reading for a while, then you know this was coming first. I think that in all dimensions of our homes, on some level, we’re impeded by something. Usually that thing that’s holding us back, has something to do with rules. Or our perceived version of them.
Depending on where you’re from, tables can feel especially formal. It makes me take a step back and say, who made the rules here? Some stiff person who published a book in 1863 that we’re all still listening to? Because our mother’s mother’s mother did it that way? That was always the case with us, and all things southern tradition. One of the first things we learned very quickly, was to break the rules and have fun. Every time I dress up the table, the kids use it was an excuse to gather and feel special, while they talk about their day. It’s the centerpiece for genuine conversation, and should never feel stuffy.
I think one of the keys to all things great tablescapes, is breaking the rules that may have inhibited you in the past. Want to gather your silverware in the center with a place setting? Do it. Don’t feel like providing the proper order of things because it doesn’t work with your layout? By all means, drop it. Have fun. That’s our main goal, after all. No one can judge you without your permission.{Remember that one, because it’s a truth in life, too.}
2. Get creative with your centerpieces
We have more examples below, but this year we were all about simple with our metallic pumpkins. We love how they can go straight from Halloween and right into the all things Thanksgiving.
Of course a collection of greenery and fresh flowers from your own yard are always a win, too. We even love the grocery store as a great source for inspiration and affordable flowers. It doesn’t have to be fancy to be fabulous.
We say go with whatever works for you. Let the casual fun shine through.
3. Place cards add extra relish
At least in our house, we think they make a great combo. There’s something about adding someone’s name to a plate for a special touch. Especially for Thanksgiving, it’s like little love letters at the table. To each their own, but our kids love them.
So we decided to provide our very special freebies for all things Thanksgiving festivities. You can get them here! {tags}
Just click, download and print! We love cardstock for all things cards and place settings.
{Psssst! Nothing makes us happier than seeing them put to good use. Use #thehandmadehomefreebies on instagram, and we’d love to see them there!}
What’s your favorite part about your Thanksgiving table? We’d love to hear any traditions you have that you and your family cherish each year.
Maybe it will inspire us for our own!
And we have more fun ideas here:
check out our thanksgiving tablescape for kids here
this fun tablecsape last year, {since we didn’t have a table – mid move ;D }
We’re going old school with a painted fall tablescape
and this free printable, here!
And for more inspiration, be sure to check out this post here.
As always, let us know if you try them. We’d love to see.
Lilly says
How absolutely beautiful and simple! I love the color hues and mixed textures. It makes for such a welcoming, cozy table. All of your ideas are gorgeous!
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ashley @ the handmade home says
Thank you so much, Lilly – you are too sweet!
Ali B says
I’m hosting this year and needed to find easy ideas for decorating for Thanksgiving. I like the use of the small pumpkins in a pretty basket!
We would love to have you share at the Ultimate Pinterest Party when it goes live Friday morning!
Katherines Corner says
Gorgeous! Thank you for sharing at the TFT party. Featured and pinned. Have you signed up for the tablescape blog tour? xo
Carol says
What a beautiful place setting. I love the copper mugs at each setting. Featuring when my party opens up tonight.
Le yoga de Danielle says
I love this decor. Can I imitate this?