Thanksgiving is more than just a meal; it’s a time to gather with loved ones and celebrate all the blessings the year has brought. And, while the food may be the star of the show, the table itself also plays an important supporting role in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A beautifully arranged Thanksgiving table not only sets the mood but also goes a long way towards making your guests feel extra special.
Is it your turn to host Thanksgiving this year? Whether you’re hosting a small family dinner or a large holiday gathering, we’ll walk you through practical and creative ways to set an elegant and inviting Thanksgiving table. We’ll tell you where to place the serveware and why there should be more than one fork per guest. In the end, you’ll have a thoughtfully designed table that’s sure to make a lasting impression.
8 Tips to Help You Style and Set Your Thanksgiving Table
1. Make a Guest List
Before diving into your table décor, you need a guest list. The size of your event will dictate just about everything for your dinner. Start by finalizing the list of attendees in order to get a clear idea of how many people will be seated at your table. If you’re hosting a large group, consider whether you’ll need to arrange additional seating or create a separate kids’ table (don’t worry, we’ve got tips for that, too).
Once you’ve got a list of attendees, you can get into planning mode.
2. Choose a Color Palette
Everyone does things a little bit differently at the holidays. When choosing your palette, consider both traditional colors and your personal style. Warm hues like burnt oranges, deep reds, golden yellows, and rich browns are classic choices that reflect the natural beauty of autumn. If you’re aiming for a more modern, sophisticated look, you can incorporate neutrals like cream, ivory, or soft grays, pairing them with metallic accents like gold or copper for a touch of glam.
Once you’ve settled on your colors, carry the theme throughout your table setting, from the tablecloth to plates to the centerpiece. Remember, this is what will set the mood for your guests, so think about the atmosphere you want to create. Whether it’s warm and cozy or sleek and modern, a well-thought-out color scheme is the start of creating a stunning Thanksgiving table that feels both inviting and festive.
3. Start with the Foundation
Before you break out the good plates, you first need to lay the foundation of your tablescape. The table itself provides a canvas and starting with the right base sets the tone for the entire dining experience. Whether you choose a classic tablecloth, runner, or bare wood, this first layer should align with your color palette and the overall style you’re aiming for.
If you’re going for a traditional look, a full tablecloth in a neutral tone, like cream or ivory, is timeless and versatile. It creates a clean backdrop for the rest of your décor. For a modern or rustic feel, consider leaving the wood of your table exposed, especially if you have a beautiful wooden dining table you’d like to showcase. In this case, a table runner down the center can add texture and provide a focal point without overwhelming the natural beauty of your table. Don’t be afraid to layer textures! Linen tablecloths and runners bring softness and elegance while woven placemats or charger plates add depth and a touch of personality. Chargers are particularly great for creating structure and framing each guest’s plate, making the setting look more intentional and polished.
4. Set the Table
Once your foundation is laid, it’s time to set the table. I know, “Finally!”, right? This is where function meets beauty. Every element should not only look elegant but also serve a practical purpose for your guests. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you have everything in place for a seamless Thanksgiving meal.
Provide Each Guest with the Essentials
You’ll need one of every item below for each guest you plan to have at dinner.
- Placemat or charger
- Plate
- Napkin
- Silverware
- Drink glass
- Wine glass
- Bowl
- Bread plate
Start with the Plates
Choose plates that complement your color palette and theme. White or cream plates are always a classic choice, providing a neutral canvas for a colorful Thanksgiving feast. If you’re feeling festive, consider using plates with subtle autumnal accents, like gold-rimmed edges or textured patterns. Layering is key here: use a large dinner plate as the base, then stack a bread plate or soup bowl on top for dimension and to signal the different courses.
Flatware: Function Meets Elegance
When choosing silverware, simplicity can often be the most elegant. Opt for flatware that matches your overall table décor – silver, gold, or even matte black can each add a unique touch. For a formal setting, arrange your silverware outside-in: forks on the left of the plate (with the dinner fork closest to the plate and salad fork on the outside), and knives and spoons on the right. Make sure the knife blades face inward toward the plate. Dessert utensils can be placed horizontally above the plate.
Napkins: A Pop of Texture or Color
Napkins make it easy to incorporate color and texture into your tablescape. Fold them neatly on top of the plates, tuck them into a napkin ring for a more polished look, or drape them between the silverware for a casual yet chic vibe.
Keep Your Glassware Classy
Provide a water glass for each guest, placing it just above the knife and another drinking glass for alternative beverages right next to it. You might choose a classic stemmed glass or something more modern like a tumbler or stemless flute. Remember to consider the size and shape of your glassware to keep the look cohesive with your overall theme.
5. Plan Out Your Food Dish Placement
When it comes to Thanksgiving, the food really is the star of the show, so planning where each dish will go is crucial to creating a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Thoughtful dish placement ensures that each guest can easily access everything without chaos or confusion.
Start with the Centerpieces
If you’re using centerpieces, make sure they are strategically placed in the middle of the table, leaving room for serving dishes and platters. Ideally, centerpieces should be low enough that they don’t obstruct conversation or create visual clutter. Think simple, autumnal decorations such as small pumpkins, candles, or floral arrangements in fall hues. You can also opt for removable centerpieces that can be taken off the table as food is served to maximize space.
Main Dishes and Larger Platters
It’s a good idea to make a plan for the turkey (or other main dish) and large platters, such as stuffing, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. If you’re having a buffet-style meal, consider setting up a separate sideboard or counter where the main dishes can be displayed, and guests can serve themselves. This frees up more room on the table for beverages or smaller dishes.
However, if you prefer family-style dining, place the turkey or main dish at the center of the table where it’s easily accessible to most guests. For large tables, placing a duplicate main dish or serving platter at either end can be a game changer, ensuring everyone gets a chance to enjoy without passing plates across the table.
Special Holiday Tip: Don’t carve the turkey at the table. It takes up too much room and often creates a bit of a mess. Carve it in the kitchen and serve the slices on a platter.
Side Dishes: Strategize for Easy Access
Side dishes are some of the best parts of Thanksgiving dinner so make sure to space them out around the table to ensure they’re within easy reach for everyone. You might want to group complementary dishes together. For example, placing the cranberry sauce near the turkey or the gravy boat close to the mashed potatoes. Use risers or different levels to stack dishes vertically if you’re tight on space, giving the table dimensions while making use of every inch.
Like we mentioned above, consider using two of each side dish if you’re entertaining a large crowd. That way guests at both ends of the table don’t have to wait for their favorite sides.
Keep the Table Balanced
As you’re arranging the dishes, be mindful of how full the table looks. If the table feels too crowded, it can take away from the elegance of your presentation and make guests feel cramped. Leave room for each dish to breathe and make sure that plates, glasses, and utensils aren’t bumping into food platters. It’s a good idea to step back once everything is arranged and look at the table holistically, ensuring that everything feels balanced and organized.
Consider Condiments and Sauces
Don’t forget the small but essential items like gravy, butter, and condiments. Place these in small serving bowls or saucers and distribute them evenly across the table. If you’re serving gravy, use a gravy boat that matches your table’s aesthetic and place it near the turkey or mashed potatoes. For butter, provide several small butter dishes at different points around the table.
6. Add the Finishing Touches
With the essentials in place, it’s time to bring your Thanksgiving table to life with the perfect finishing touches. This could include items such as personalized place cards, seasonal greenery and florals, candles, etc. These little details elevate your table from simple to stunning, creating a warm, elegant, inviting atmosphere for your guests.
While it’s not technically part of the place setting, we recommend adding some soft background music as it can elevate the overall dining experience. Choose a playlist of calming instrumental music or classic jazz to play during the meal. The music should complement the atmosphere you’re creating without distracting from conversations.
7. Be Ready for Dessert!
We all know that Thanksgiving isn’t over when the last main course is cleared from the table. Now, it’s time for dessert! Preparing your table and dining area for dessert can be just as important as the meal itself. Creating a smooth transition from dinner to dessert will keep the meal flowing and ensure your guests feel well taken care of.
One of the easiest ways to ensure a seamless dessert course is by having a designated space where desserts can be displayed and served. This could be a sideboard, buffet table, or a small cart. Having this space ready before the meal means you won’t be rushing around to rearrange things once dinner ends. Arrange your pies, cakes, and other sweets in an aesthetically pleasing way. Tiered trays can help maximize space while keeping things organized. If you’re serving warm desserts, make sure you have plates, serving utensils, and condiments readily available.
Make the transition even easier by setting out dessert plates, forks, and spoons ahead of time. You can either place them on the main table during the meal, if you have room, or keep them near your designated dessert station.
Need some ideas to help spice up dessert at your Thanksgiving? We’ve got you covered!
Pumpkin Cake Bread Pudding
Nothing says fall like our favorite comfort foods and flavors. And, by now, you know our favorite recipes are those that are the perfect blend of classic dishes. So, if you, too, are a fan of pumpkin cake and traditional bread pudding, then this Pumpkin Cake Bread Pudding is about to become your new favorite, cozy dessert. Made with soft, spiced cake pieces from a Pumpkin Cake Roll, this recipe is an easy way to turn your leftovers into a delicious seasonal treat. It’s rich, custardy, and perfect for a big Thanksgiving meal.
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
What better way to celebrate the start of the season than with a dessert that’s full of pumpkin flavor, both inside and out? That’s why we’re introducing you to our recipe for Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes. These mini treats are overflowing with your favorite fall flavors. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the richness of cream cheese blended with warm, pumpkin and spice. Perfect for holiday celebrations, festive events, or quiet family dinners by the fire, these mini cheesecakes are sure to be the star of your fall menu.
Red Velvet Cheese Ball
A Red Velvet Cheese Ball is the perfect dip for the holidays. It has all the deliciousness of red velvet cake and cream cheese frosting rolled into one ball and is served with your favorite cookies or crackers. It’s creamy and flavorful without being too rich and only requires 3 ingredients. It’s so simple that you may want to consider making two because, once guests get a bite of this appetizer, they won’t be able to stop themselves from going back for seconds.
8. The Kids’ Table
Are you going to have a separate table for all the children attending? If so, creating a dedicated space for your younger guests can make the celebration more personalized and enjoyable for everyone. Here are a few tips for setting an inviting and festive kids’ table that complements the rest of your Thanksgiving setup.
- Kids tend to be messier than adults, so keep the table setting more casual with sturdy, easy-to-clean plates, cups, and utensils. You can even opt for fun, disposable, Thanksgiving-themed paper plates and napkins that make cleanup a breeze without sacrificing style.
- To keep little hands busy and prevent boredom, incorporate entertainment directly into the kids’ table. This could be done by using butcher paper or craft paper in place of a tablecloth and by placing crayons or colored pencils around the table to encourage kids to doodle or draw. Or you can add some small puzzles, games, or holiday-specific crafts to keep kids engaged before, during, and after the meal.
- While you’ll likely be serving the same main meal for everyone, consider including a few kid-friendly favorites that cater to picky eaters. Simple dishes like mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, or mini sandwiches are often popular with kids and can easily be served alongside traditional Thanksgiving fare.
- While the adult table may feature elegant centerpieces and décor, the kids’ table can take on a more playful and whimsical feel. Think small pumpkins, turkey figurines, or colorful leaves to add a touch of Thanksgiving charm to their table. You can also incorporate seasonal toys or plushies to give the kids something soft to play with throughout the day.
