I promise every time I look at a beautifully set table, I am in complete and utter awe. It’s an art really, but one that is way more obtainable than you might imagine. Most of you have a tablescape to address this coming Thursday and the ladies behind Love & Honey + Style Souffle are breaking down the 5 tricks to making your Thanksgiving look like a gorgeous Holiday Magazine spread. Plus, these tips work for any old get-together where a table is involved. See even more captured by Josh Deaton right here.
We don’t have any scientific proof per se, but we’d swear that a beautifully set table somehow makes the food taste better. A tablescape is the first thing guests see before they sit down to eat, and it’s a good way to set the tone for your entire meal.
And tablescapes are not just for weddings anymore. That’s right – in this age of Pinterest, every brunch or dinner party is an opportunity to design a gorgeous table for guests to dine upon.
So with that in mind, I teamed up with wedding planner Love & Honey, and film photographer, Josh Deaton to create a stunning tablescape that is sure to inspire you this holiday season.
With a deep love for rustic elegance, we wanted this elevated Thanksgiving dinner and table story to incorporate infinite shades of rich Fall hues. Taking cues from the changing leaves, thick Fall fabrics and wooden vibes, this intimate earthy-yet-mystical display was the perfect twist on the traditional harvest gathering.
We put together a little guide that hopefully helps you step up your game, and design a beautiful tablescape that will wow your gusts this year.
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5 Steps to a Beautiful Thanksgiving Table
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1. Repeat, Repeat, Repeat
Don’t be afraid to repeat the same element throughout your tablescape. It creates a sense of fullness and acts as a space filler without being overpowering. Too much variety on one table can be chaotic and overwhelming, so keep things simple and consistent by placing the same element in multiple places across your table. For example, we repeated tapered candles, pumpkins and a custom monogram throughout our table design to create a cohesive yet multi-dimensional look.
2. Mix & Match
Curate an eye-catching tablescape by using a mixture of textures to add dimension and depth to your overall design. Consider layering your table with fabrics such a table linen, napkins or runner. Then contrast your fabric with other finishes such woods, metals, ceramics, glass, or greenery. A good mixture is key to keeping your table design balanced. Too many metal or shiny elements can be overpowering, while only using wood could be dull and monotone. Also keep in mind that too many competing elements can seem cramped and busy, rather than layered and compelling.
3. Dress It Up
There are a few crafty tricks to dress your table up without breaking the bank. First things first, pre-set your table! Nothing looks emptier than a table without place settings. Use your dishes, flatware and glassware as a means to fill the space and create a cohesive style throughout your tablescape. When guests see your pre-set display it will immediately set an inviting tone. Secondly, don’t be afraid to use food in your design. Pre-set the table with baguettes, soup, fruit, or a charcuterie plate that guests can munch on while they are waiting for dinner to be served. It basically kills two birds with one stone as it acts as a space filler without spending extra money.
4. Hills & Valleys
Keep your table design compelling and intriguing by incorporating elements of varying heights and sizes. If your elements (centerpieces, candles, etc) are all around the same height your table will look flat and one-dimensional. Also consider the size of an object. Does it fill the space appropriately, or is it too small or too big? You want to keep the eye moving fluidly to create a sense of depth and dimension to your overall.
5. Let There Be Light
You can never go wrong with the flickering glow of a candlelight table to set the mood. It creates a calm and romantic atmosphere that guests will appreciate. This is also an area to have fun. Depending on the atmosphere and design you are wanting to create, consider candles in varying heights, widths and even colors. Don’t forget to have fun with candlestick options as well. Anthropologie is chalked full of a variety of options that will elevate any table design. Another great option to consider is using a votive and floating candle combo.
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Photography: Josh Deaton | Styling: Love & Honey | Styling: Taylor-Rae (@stylesouffle)
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