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Thanksgiving is one of my favorite days of the year. As an interior designer, I’ll tell you a well-set table is the same as designing a room. You start with the foundation and build it up in layers.
Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or a small, intimate family dinner, this is how I set my own Thanksgiving table. It’s casual yet elegant, and the whole thing is done the day before. The food is the star, and I’d rather spend the day with my family than fussing with the table.
Step 1: Choose a Thanksgiving Color Scheme
Pick one scheme and stick to it. I go with burgundy or orange, paired with gold. A tight palette is what makes a layered table look intentional.
Step 2: Start with the Foundation
I leave the table uncovered. A tablecloth can feel like too much, and a bare table with a runner looks cleaner. For the kids’ table, I use something white and disposable, or a coloring table cover to keep little hands busy. [Shop the coloring table cover →]
Step 3: Add Chargers to Mark Each Seat
Chargers are a great way to position each seat at the table. I serve guests on plastic plates stacked near the buffet, so for me the charger is a placeholder. If you serve at the table, the plate sits right on top. I like gold chargers, and woven chargers suit a more rustic theme.
Step 4: Set Cloth Napkins
Cloth napkins create a very elegant look. If you’re short on time, use napkin rings or simply set the napkin on the charger. For a little extra, tie it with jute twine and tuck in rosemary and cinnamon twigs.
Step 5: Give Your Table Height with Glassware
Use two heights of glassware. Set a small glass for water and a tall amber glass for a special drink. The contrast adds dimension and makes the table look styled.
Step 6: Layer Your Table Runner Decor
Build the runner in layers, starting with green faux foliage. Then add faux or real pumpkins, tea lights, candlesticks, and votives. Together they give you:
Ambient lighting from two layers of light
Height from the candlesticks and glassware
Color from the pumpkins and foliage
Step 7: Keep Your Centerpiece Short
A centerpiece is optional. If you want one, make it a real floral arrangement in your color scheme, or use green leaves from the garden. Keep it low, because you should be able to see the person across from you. The point of a meal together is conversation, and a tall centerpiece is usually the first thing to leave the table.
Shop the Look
I’ve pulled together everything I used for this table. [Shop the whole Thanksgiving collection →]
Want Help Designing Your Space?
At H&S Interiors and Organization, we create beautiful and functional spaces for busy families in Bee Cave, Lakeway, and Austin, so your home works for the way you actually host and live.