Dining Decor: Thanksgiving 2020

Thanksgiving will look a little different for most of us this year. Our gatherings will be smaller, our tables less full, but in a year full of unknowns there is one thing (well, two maybe) that won’t be any different – our reason to give thanks. After all, it is what the day is devoted to. Just to be alive, to have this day, whether you are celebrating with family, friends, or solo, is enough to be thankful for. Instead of embracing what isn’t, embrace what is. If you can’t be in the same room with those you love, do a virtual Thanksgiving, or maybe just a simple phone call to say hello. Make the most of what you can!

However you end up celebrating this day of thanks, your table decor doesn’t have to diminish. Actually, setting a beautiful table will make the mood more joyous and give a semblance of normalcy. Whether you are setting a table for 1 or 10 you can make it a memory, something good to look back on in 2020. And since many people are pinching pennies a little more this year, remember you don’t have to spend a lot or go over the top to make your table pop.

I always say “start with what you have.” It’s fun to shop your own closet, or in this case your pantry. Build the table with what you have first, then you’ll know what you need to add on. For this table, I used a tablecloth, wood chargers and wood napkin rings I already owned. The plant as my centerpiece is one I borrowed from another space in my home. I wanted to add hints of fall and make the table cozy, so chose rich green plaid plates and napkins. They are paper and were super affordable at Michaels. I also wanted a little sparkle, so used gold glitter painted pine cones. (I bought mine, but you could find your own outside and paint them.) To add another pop of color, I used little goodie bags with a fall leaf print, which will be perfect for wrapping leftover rolls or desserts in – great if you have guests who may want to take food to go.

Overall, it probably cost me $20 to set this beautiful table, but it will make me happy all day on Thanksgiving and will be a reminder to be thankful to have a table to set and a reason to celebrate. Wishing you all a safe, healthy and happy Thanksgiving.