Here’s the thing about Thanksgiving, I love it because it’s the perfect excuse to bring everyone together. But when you live small, that can definitely be a challenge. We always have Thanksgiving with Sean’s family in their own homes, but I styled this tablescape to inspire anyone who lives small and is hosting this year! Plus, the aesthetics of this table feel like a departure for me… because it’s sort of traditional. For some reason, I am really feeling the cozy, warm autumn tones this year. We’ll dig into that more! First, let’s talk about all of the details of my Thanksgiving tablescape.
Hosting Thanksgiving in a Small Space? These Styling Tips Will Help
When it comes to entertaining in a small space, I always serve food as a buffet. I line up the platters on the kitchen counter so that everyone can load up their plates. Then we gather around the table and feast! Serving your Thanksgiving day dishes as a buffet helps to save precious table space.
Let’s dig into the details and styling of this harvest inspired tabletop:
Texture & Pattern Mixing
As usual, this tablescape is inspired by the centerpiece DIY that Sarah shared yesterday. I am obsessed with the harvest colors of the flowers and the mix of texture, so I tried to complement that in my styling. The woven placemat is made of a natural material and juxtaposes quite nicely with my natural linen tablecloth. Then, for another pop of pattern, I chose a plaid napkin. At first I was worried that it would feel too traditional, but I love the preppy pop that the plaid gives the table!
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Dinnerware & Glassware
For the dinner plate, I kept things simple and modern. Then I layered on a pretty gold salad plate for a touch of shine! I always love stacked plates to make a holiday seem even more special. Don’t be afraid to mix and match, especially if plates have different silohuettes and profiles. That’s how you get a more ‘designed’ and curated look for your tablescape.
Then, for glassware I went for goblets. Unfortunately these bubble glass goblets are no longer for sale, but there are tons of options that are similar. I especially love the idea of etched glass because it’s just one more way to add a touch of pattern to your tabletop. This shape of glassware is flexible in terms of usage, too. It can hold wine, cocktails, or water… whichever your holiday guest prefers. That way you’re not cluttering up the table with extra glassware that never ends up getting used.
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Metallic Touches with Wood
And now comes the part where we talk about special details!! I picked up these brass and wood utensils at a thrift store and I am so in love with them. There’s a beautiful patina on the metal part and the wood is worn after years of use. They are incredible. I especially love how they coordinate with the wooden napkin ring, too. All of these wood tones match nicely with our dining chairs and the placemats for a curated, not too matchy-matchy look.
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Like I said, I’ve been really into the more traditional Thanksgiving colors — burnt orange, plum, golden yellow, natural taupe, and gold. Typically, I try to style tablescapes that are more modern and unexpected. This year, however, I’m drawn to the cozy vibes of a traditional color palette. It feels really out of my wheelhouse, to be honest. Either way, it’s always fun to mix it up. What do you think of this tablescape look??
Looking for even more Thanksgiving inspiration? Check out these posts about entertaining on Turkey Day:
- 4 Ways to Dress Up Your White Dinnerware
- The Best New Serving Pieces for Fall
- My Best Tips for Hosting a Low Waste Holiday Party
- How to Style a Casual Friendsgiving Tablescape
- A Whimsical Blush Thanksgiving Tablescape
