Create a Modern Thanksgiving Table

There's something nostalgic about setting the table for Thanksgiving. An elegant tablescape has a way of making an ordinary activity (sharing a meal together) feel extra special. But it needn't be difficult or overrun with the usual turkey day décor. I prefer to keep things simple and natural.

I start off with a patterned runner in a striking color. (It's actually vintage batik fabric. I sewed it into a runner to fit our table and added pompom trim.)

I find tall centerpieces distracting. To keep the focus on good food and good conversation I lined the center of the table with trailing greenery. Inexpensive eucalyptus bunches from the grocery store work great and smell wonderful. They dry nicely, too, which means you can set the table the day before and not worry about wilting leaves. I used three different types of eucalyptus to give the centerpiece interest. Then I sprinkled in a few small pumpkins (I like white or gold-painted ones) as a nod to the season.

I used candles to create an inviting atmosphere. I spray painted a modern, geometric-shaped candle holder gold and hand-dipped a taper candle in colored wax (melted Crayons!) for a custom look.

I paired our good china (a wedding gift that's over a decade old and still going strong) with sleek gold flatware. You know that trick about mixing metal finishes when decorating? It totally works for tablescapes, too. Luxurious linen napkins are a worthy splurge—they only get better and softer with each use. In lieu of fancy, bulky napkin rings, tie a length of suede cord (found at any craft store) around the linen napkins then slip in a sprig of eucalyptus. Easy and elegant!

I dressed up the sideboard with a loose, DIY floral arrangement and incorporated branches of eucalyptus to tie in with the tablescape. A few petite pumpkins and votives round out the display.

I hung a "Give Thanks" banner in the window. I made it by hot glueing wood letters (from the craft store) to jute string. I stained the letters to give them more depth and warmth. The two banners are secured with clear adhesive cord clips which can be removed without damaging the wall.

I hope I've given you some ideas for your own home. When in doubt, keep it simple. Splurge on items you can use over and over (table runner, candle holders, cloth napkins, flatware, etc.). Pinch pennies on the temporary elements (DIY floral arrangements, season-specific décor, etc.). But, most of all, enjoy your time with family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving!

Photos: Dana Miller