How to set a Thanksgiving Table in 15 min or less

Having a group of 20 or more for Thanksgiving? Or maybe just a small intimate gathering with 2-4 people? No matter if your Thanksgiving gathering is large or small, setting a festive table adds to the excitement of the holiday! But you don’t have to spend hours shopping for just the right dishes or spending a fortune on a floral centerpiece. Here’s a few easy tips to set a beautiful, festive table in under 15 minutes! Remember the focus is on your people, aka your loved ones, your friends and family and of course the food!

Living Room Set Up

If you need to spill over into your living room, set up a few long tables (like these) down the center of your living room.

1. Cover with white tablecloths or you can even use clean white sheets to save money!
2. Next, use brown paper placemats that you either purchase (like these) or cut from a long roll. This defines each seat.
3. Add some festive napkins to each place setting and a place card with your guests name. You can purchase place cards with a Thanksgiving theme or if you prefer, you can make your own! Write each guests name on a mini pumpkin or a leaf. A place card isn’t necessary but it’s a thoughtful gesture that lets your guest know that they are welcome and you are expecting them.
4. For the centerpieces, put one or three focal point candles down the center and fill in with mini pumpkins and leaves.
5. My favorite way to entertain is buffet style. If that’s what you’re doing, Keep your plates on the buffet table so everything is in one spot. Disposable plates or your best china, you pick! You can’t go wrong either way!

Dining Room/Kitchen Set Up

If you use your kitchen or dining room table, maybe you want something more formal? Then simply use a white table cloth and skip the paper placemats. Again, use a few focal point candles, and fill in with mini pumpkins, leaves or wheat. Done! So simple!

Again, the emphasis is on your family and friends; building relationships and having community over good food! You don’t have to spend hours decorating to have a beautiful table! Enjoy your people and have a Happy Thanksgiving!