20 BEST THANKSGIVING TABLE DECOR IDEAS SURE TO WOW YOUR GUESTS

As Halloween fades into memory and the vibrant hues of fall envelop your neighborhood, the holiday spirit is in full swing. The leaves form a colorful, magical blanket that transforms the landscape.

With the fall festival approaching, it’s time to focus on one of the most significant meals of the year: Thanksgiving. Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or an intimate family gathering, it’s essential to prepare, from table decorations to meal planning.

But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with stunning Thanksgiving table decoration ideas that will have everyone buzzing with excitement. Once your table is set, meal prep will feel like a breeze. So, take a deep breath and let’s dive into these amazing Thanksgiving decorating tips, starting with the essentials!

WHAT DO YOU PUT ON A THANKSGIVING DINNER TABLE?

Feeling stressed about how to set the table for a sophisticated or trendy impression? Don’t worry—we’ve got the perfect solution!

A well-set table can elevate even the simplest meal into a delightful experience. To help you de-stress from the planning, follow these easy steps:

  • Start Early: Begin your table decor well before the big meal day to avoid last-minute chaos.
  • Gather Supplies: Make a checklist to ensure you have all the essentials. This includes decorative items as well as practical items like plates, napkins, bowls, silverware, and glasses for the right number of guests.
  • Match the Theme: Ensure that all items coordinate with your Thanksgiving decor theme.
  • Lay the Foundation: For a formal setting, arrange the salad plates and main course plates first.
  • Arrange Silverware: Place the forks on the left of the plate—the larger fork closest to the plate and the smaller fork next for appetizers or salads. On the right, set the knife followed by the spoons for soup and dessert.
  • Align for Uniformity: Ensure everything is lined up neatly for a polished look.
  • Position Glassware: Place the wine and water glasses to the right of the plate, and then set the bowls or bread plates opposite the glasses.

And just like that, your table is set and ready for decoration! To be the most gracious host with the most beautiful Thanksgiving table, we have a fantastic collection of creative and easy Thanksgiving table ideas, complete with DIY centerpieces and place cards. Ready to dive in?

EASY & CREATIVE TABLE SETTING THANKSGIVING DECORATION IDEAS

BASKETS TABLE SETTING

As Thanksgiving approaches and thoughts turn to the harvest bounty, baskets make for a beautiful table motif. Looking for a centerpiece that’s stylish, simple, and budget-friendly? Look no further! These baskets, filled with apples, pears, and walnuts, evoke the essence of a cornucopia overflowing with abundance. You can use multiple baskets to create a stunning display that runs along the length of the table, adding a warm and inviting touch to your Thanksgiving celebration.

GOLD TABLE SETTING

No flower, no matter how humble, fails to shine when grouped together. For this tablescape, we arranged clusters of mums, carnations, amaranth, wheat, and grasses in fluted glasses and small vases. To maintain a cohesive look, we chose a palette of amber hues—yellows, golds, and rusts—for the flowers, vessels, and beeswax candles. We opted for hardy blooms like mums and carnations, ensuring they are readily available. Simply clip the stems, remove any excess foliage, and place the flowers in clean water for a stunning display that brings warmth and charm to your Thanksgiving table.

GLITTERED CORN TABLE SETTING

Incorporating a few organic elements, enhanced with a touch of gilding, beautifully captures the abundance of fall. Begin with the essentials: the dishes, with their fluid shapes, reflect the natural world around us. Use sturdy silverware that gleams—whether gold or silver, it all adds to the elegance. Stripes of glitter along the edge of a table runner elevate the festive ambiance.

For a stunning centerpiece, transform a glass compote into a horn of plenty by filling it with sparkling Indian corn and squash. Vary the intensity of the sparkle by completely covering some ears of corn while using just a light dusting of glitter on others. A simple glittered stem on the squash is all it needs to catch the eye. This combination of organic charm and shimmering accents will create a captivating Thanksgiving table display.

SILVER COATED TABLE SETTING

Create a stunning table with elegant decorations in calming colors, using just a few simple supplies. Elevate plain woven bread baskets by painting them in a single, lustrous shade and lining them with vibrant fabric.

For a rich centerpiece, add a plastic liner to the basket and fill it with a mix of neutral, silvery-leafed plants paired with flowers in deep purples and soft magentas. In this arrangement, we used mums, dusty miller, viburnum, globe thistle, cabbage rosettes, and kale leaves—affordable options that are easy to find in the fall. This combination of colors and textures will bring a serene and sophisticated touch to your Thanksgiving table.

FORAGED TABLE SETTING

Embrace earthy, natural, and plant-based elements for your holiday table with beautiful materials like lichen-covered blueberry branches and velvety red spikes of staghorn sumac. Consider foraging for centerpiece materials right in your own backyard. Sculptural twigs and branches serve as a surprising alternative to traditional flowers, adding a touch of natural beauty that reflects the season.

An important occasion can be both chic and casual. Feel free to use stunning yet everyday earthenware, and there’s no need for a tablecloth or placemats. Your napkins don’t even have to match—just choose related colors or fabrics to create a cohesive look. This relaxed approach will infuse your Thanksgiving table with a warm and inviting atmosphere.

BRIGHT YELLOW TABLE SETTING

We crafted a warm golden yellow palette, anchored by a table runner made of metallic glazed linen. The combination of old and new pieces of ceramic vintage dinnerware, all in creamy white shades, creates a harmonious and easily mixable aesthetic. To infuse the setting with vibrant bursts of gold, we added spider mums and Craspedia globosa in shallow bowls and porcelain cups. This arrangement beautifully enhances the overall look, creating an inviting and cheerful atmosphere perfect for Thanksgiving.

RICHLY COLORED TABLE SETTING

Sometimes, simplicity is the key to an elegant tablescape. This thematic vision from former Deputy Creative Director Ayesha Patel embodies that principle for a Thanksgiving table. It features natural materials and textures, such as burlap place mats, a leather tie for the carafe, and block-printed napkins. These elements come together to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, highlighting the beauty of understated design while celebrating the essence of the season.

PATTERN PLAY TABLE SETTING

Botanical dinner plates set the stage for this beautiful table. The fresh color palette, inspired by the floral pattern—yellow, lavender, brown, and gray—brings everything together in perfect harmony. Sleek gray side plates offer a contemporary contrast to the vintage design of the dinner plates.

To enhance the setting, assorted napkins are unified by stitched-on crochet trim along one edge. Antique etched wine glasses, simple low tumblers, and purple pressed-glass tumblers complement the old-new theme beautifully. Flat place cards adorned with single dried flowers reinforce the color scheme, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere for your Thanksgiving gathering.

GILDED TABLE SETTING

Give your table the Midas touch by transforming fallen leaves into a rustic yet elegant centerpiece. Start by collecting leaves and bare branches to create your arrangement—there’s no need to press the leaves, as their natural form is part of their charm. Spray the leaves with gold paint and allow them to dry. Once dry, use hot glue to attach the leaves to the branches and arrange them in a vase.

For the rest of the table, embrace a resplendent gold theme with modern flatware and dinner plates, complemented by a fringed linen runner. To personalize the dining experience, place Baby Boo pumpkins at each guest’s seat to mark their place, adding a delightful touch to your Thanksgiving celebration.

BARN TABLE SETTING

The Nordt family from Charles City, Virginia, hosts their Thanksgiving feast in a charming barn setting. Instead of traditional chairs, they creatively arrange bales of hay along the table, draped with handwoven blankets that add warmth and softness. The main table features an assortment of candles, glasses, and antique 1920s Theodore Haviland china that Dianne Nordt, the family matriarch, has lovingly collected over the years.

Nut wreaths, crafted by drilling holes in pecans and sweet-gum seeds and stringing them onto wire rings, add a rustic touch and adorn a reclaimed barn door. Above the buffet, a beautifully threaded magnolia wreath hangs on the wall, completing the cozy and inviting atmosphere for their Thanksgiving celebration.

SOFT METALLICS TABLE SETTING

Glints of gold and silver beautifully complement soft pinks and yellows at this inviting table. Arrangements of carnations, mums, scabiosa seed heads, and grasses are positioned on and around the mantel, adding a touch of natural beauty to the setting without overwhelming the table. This thoughtful design creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for gathering with loved ones during the holiday season.

COZY RUSTIC TABLE SETTING

Feelings of gratitude flow effortlessly in autumn, the peak season for ethereal light, rich colors, and joyful homecomings. This Thanksgiving, embrace these elements with a simple yet special table that honors great food and cherished company. Bring in a cushioned bench to create a comfortable setting for enjoying a spread of easy earthly delights.

Our interpretation of a pared-down Scandinavian aesthetic—where flowers are not essential—draws warmth from raw linen and the soft glow of beeswax candles. A casually stunning centerpiece features an informal arrangement of mottled gourds, leather-trimmed hurricane lanterns, and whole nuts ready for cracking, creating a relaxed yet beautiful atmosphere for your Thanksgiving gathering.

FALL HARVEST TABLE SETTING

While many people say grace at dinner, you can cultivate feelings of gratitude even before the meal begins by preparing an easy yet stunning, wilt-proof centerpiece. To create this simple arrangement, place candles on small glass dishes and cover them with curvy lamp chimneys, which can be found for just a few dollars at hardware or antique stores. Fill in any spare spaces with seasonal fruit and foliage for added color and texture. When guests arrive, light the wicks and enjoy the warm glow, setting a beautiful and inviting atmosphere for your Thanksgiving celebration.

DRIED FLOWERS TABLE SETTING

If you didn’t have time to wander through a meadow to gather materials for your tabletop, this setup is the perfect alternative. The key to achieving a breezy yet modern feel is to use mostly one variety of flower per vase, allowing the simplicity of the arrangement to shine. The mix of white stoneware vases beautifully contrasts with a rust-colored tablecloth, creating an eye-catching display.

By lining the vases up loosely, you maintain an effortless charm. This spare palette will carry you through the winter months; for a fresh look, simply swap out the vessels to match the season or your mood.

INDIGO TABLE SETTING

Take a break from the hassle of formal floral centerpieces and instead showcase wispy dried branch stalks in a variety of vases. For a snow-kissed effect, lay the branches on paper and spray them with white floral paint before arranging them.

While block-printed linens can be expensive to buy, they are surprisingly easy to make using just textile paint, muslin fabric, and woodblock stamps. When block-printing napkins, mix colors and patterns to enhance your table’s eclectic vibe. This unique combination of colors and loose materials creates a relaxed yet inviting atmosphere that still feels celebratory.

In this setup, vintage yellowware pie dishes serve as unconventional dinner plates, while individual cutting boards hold bread and salt dishes; adding a stylish touch by winding ribbon around their handles. Vintage and reproduction Dutch tiles add personality to the table and can serve multiple purposes. Arrange them in clusters or as a band down the center of the table, using them as trivets or placing them individually as coasters for a charming touch.

BOTANICAL POTS

To elevate your table for the feast, transform plain terra-cotta pots into elegant, one-of-a-kind displays with botanical accents. All you need are silicone baking molds (typically used for making fondant details on cakes), white air-dry clay, and craft glue. Here’s a simple how-to:

  • Prepare the Clay: Start by kneading the white air-dry clay until it’s soft and pliable.
  • Mold the Shapes: Press the clay into the silicone baking molds, ensuring you fill each detail. Let the clay set as per the manufacturer’s instructions until it’s firm.
  • Assemble the Accents: Once the clay pieces are ready, carefully remove them from the molds. Use craft glue to attach these botanical accents to the sides of your terra-cotta pots.
  • Plant Your Botanicals: Fill the pots with soil and your favorite plants or flowers, allowing the clay accents to enhance the overall aesthetic.
  • Set the Table: Arrange the decorated pots on your table for a charming and personalized centerpiece that adds a touch of nature to your Thanksgiving feast.

This simple DIY project not only beautifies your table but also creates a unique and inviting atmosphere for your gathering.

TERRA COTTA TABLE SETTING

For a natural and earthy aesthetic this Thanksgiving, consider using terra cotta serving ware. Terra cotta isn’t just for flower pots; it can be transformed into beautiful and versatile tableware that complements any holiday theme, whether dressed up or down.

METALLIC MINI GOLD PUMPKIN TABLE SETTING

Elevate your Thanksgiving table settings by spray painting mini pumpkins in metallic gold. Place one on each plate, attaching a name card for a personalized touch that enhances the seasonal ambiance. For a cohesive look, arrange larger metallic gold pumpkins down the center of the table. This simple yet elegant decor idea adds a festive flair while keeping the aesthetic sophisticated and inviting.

NATURAL PUMPKINS AND GOURDS TABLESETTING

Create a charming autumnal table display by arranging a mix of gourds and mini pumpkins along the length of your table. Pair these colorful accents with navy blue plates, soft linen napkins, and natural wood-accented silverware for a refreshing twist on traditional Thanksgiving tablescapes. This combination adds warmth and texture, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season while ensuring an inviting atmosphere for your guests.

BOHEMIAN VIBES

Embrace a bohemian-inspired table setting by layering patterned tablecloths to create visual interest. Use a mix of eclectic plates in various colors and designs to enhance the laid-back vibe, and complement them with vintage glassware for a touch of charm. To complete the whimsical atmosphere, hang dreamcatchers or macrame accents from the backs of the chairs. This unique decor not only adds character but also invites a relaxed and inviting feel, perfect for a memorable Thanksgiving gathering.

CONCLUSION

As your Thanksgiving feast draws near, remember that the table setting plays a crucial role in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. By incorporating these 20 best Thanksgiving table decor ideas, you can effortlessly wow your guests and elevate your holiday celebration. From rustic charm to modern elegance, there’s a style to suit every taste and preference. So, gather your favorite elements, let your creativity flow, and create a Thanksgiving table that will be the talk of the town. Happy Thanksgiving!

10 AMAZING NATURAL HAIR RULES YOU SHOULD FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS

Natural hair is fundamentally a lifestyle choice. Achieving your hair goals requires dedicated effort and a keen understanding of your unique hair type, porosity, density, and width. Think of your hair like a plant: the more you nourish it with quality products, hydrate it, and shield it from harsh conditions, the more it will thrive, grow, and transform. Here are the top 10 essential rules for maintaining healthy, vibrant natural hair!

SOLIDIFY YOUR WASH DAY ROUTINE

Your wash day is essential for maintaining healthy natural hair, as it all begins with proper moisture. Clarifying your hair is a crucial step in your wash day routine. If your hair is dirty, it won’t be able to absorb moisture effectively due to product buildup.

When it comes to shampoos, there are two key types every natural should have: moisturizing shampoos and clarifying shampoos.

Moisturizing shampoos feature gentle yet effective surfactants that cleanse the scalp by removing dirt and product buildup. These are perfect for regular use.

Clarifying shampoos, however, contain stronger cleansing agents designed to deeply cleanse your hair and eliminate hard-to-reach dirt, including mineral buildup. Shampoos with chelating ingredients are especially beneficial for low porosity hair, which often experiences quicker product accumulation.

Weekly deep conditioning is an essential rule in caring for natural hair. Its primary purpose is to condition, strengthen, and soften your hair, setting the stage for your leave-in products.

Always prioritize deep conditioning after shampooing to counteract any stripping effects from the shampoo. Opt for deep conditioners that feature emollients, fatty alcohols, and are packed with nourishing plant extracts.

USE MOISTURIZING LEAVE-IN STYLERS

Leave-in conditioners are crucial for all natural hair types, regardless of curl pattern, porosity, density, or width. These products not only offer moisture until your next wash day but also condition the hair and minimize friction.

Curly and coily hair often experiences curl interlocking, where curls and coils tangle together. This can lead to severe knots and tangles, resulting in increased breakage and shedding if not addressed.

Leave-in conditioners contain friction-reducing agents that help keep your curls manageable. They are definitely a staple in any natural hair routine. When paired with a plant-based botanical gel, your coils will stay tangle-free and frizz-free for days!

KNOW YOUR POROSITY

What’s the point of using all those expensive products if you don’t understand your hair’s absorption potential? Porosity is the most crucial rule to know about your hair. It determines how well your hair absorbs water and products, guiding you on what to use and how to apply it effectively.

Natural hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb moisture and products. Low porosity hair has a low absorption rate because its cuticles are tightly closed, making it challenging for moisture to penetrate. High porosity hair, on the other hand, has open cuticles, leading to a high absorption rate but difficulty in retaining moisture.

If you have low porosity hair, focus on enhancing moisture absorption. Because the cuticles are tight, products often sit on the surface. Choose lightweight formulas that promote absorption and include delivery agents to help penetrate the cuticle, especially for leave-in conditioners and styling products.

For high porosity hair, which has raised cuticles, moisture retention is key. Use products with ingredients that form moisture barriers and fill cuticle gaps to prevent moisture loss throughout the week.

BALANCE PROTEIN

Protein treatments are vital for addressing protein loss caused by mechanical damage (like detangling) and chemical damage (from heat tools, dyes, and relaxers), and they should be part of every natural hair routine.

However, excessive protein treatments can lead to dry, brittle hair—exactly what we want to avoid! It’s crucial to tailor your protein treatments according to your hair’s porosity and width to prevent overuse.

Smaller proteins, such as amino acids and peptides, can penetrate the hair cortex to strengthen it, making them suitable for all porosities and hair widths.

Conversely, larger proteins like hydrolyzed wheat and collagen function similarly to film-forming humectants, creating a protective barrier around the hair. These treatments are ideal for high porosity or fine to medium strands but can increase dryness in low porosity and coarse hair.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY SCALP 

Scalp health is essential for a successful hair journey, regardless of hair type. Just as we care for our hair ends, we must prioritize our scalp.

Think of your scalp as the foundation of your hair; it deserves just as much attention. If our hair ends are like the wise elders, our scalp is the precious baby!

Here are some best practices for maintaining scalp health:

  • Moisturize: Use skin-friendly products to keep your scalp hydrated. Remember, the scalp is skin too, so avoid harsh ingredients.
  • Scalp Massages: Every few days, massage your scalp with nourishing oils like olive, castor, or avocado oil. Adding rosemary oil can enhance blood circulation and keep the scalp well-lubricated.
  • Gentle Hairstyles: Avoid tight hairstyles to reduce the risk of follicle damage.
  • Stay Clean: Regularly cleanse your scalp to remove oil, dirt, bacteria, and product buildup.

PROTECT YOUR HAIR

Protective styling is crucial for maintaining a healthy natural hair routine. If you’re aiming for hair growth, protective styles help retain length while locking in moisture, supporting your growth goals. To avoid any drawbacks of protective styling, follow these best practices: ensure your style isn’t too tight to prevent follicle tension, and regularly take it down for clarifying and re-moisturizing.

LISTEN TO YOUR HAIR

Mastering the art of listening to your hair can be challenging, but it’s essential for your hair journey. For instance, some people with natural hair can go a week without moisturizing, while others may need to re-moisturize every two days. Both are perfectly normal!

Remember, everyone’s hair is unique. If your hair feels dry, clear away buildup and follow up with a deep conditioner and leave-in. Pay attention to what your hair is telling you—it will show its appreciation!

UP YOUR DIET AND EXERCISE ROUTINE AS NEEDED

This year, let’s acknowledge the important connection between diet, exercise, and beauty. The saying “you are what you eat” holds true for natural hair. Staying hydrated is essential for hair growth, but making key dietary changes—like eating a balanced diet and taking necessary supplements—is equally important. Regular exercise also plays a vital role.

To boost your hair growth, focus on incorporating plenty of leafy greens and fruits into your meals. Empower yourself by understanding your body—are you missing any essential nutrients? Nutrients like iron are crucial for the hair cycle, and deficiencies can show up in your hair.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the impact of exercise. Many people with natural hair report that moderate weekly workouts help enhance their hair growth cycle.

STOP COMPARING

They say comparison is the enemy of creativity, and I couldn’t agree more. Remember, pursuing any goal is a marathon, not a sprint. Despite what some natural hair influencers may claim, hair doesn’t grow overnight—anyone who says otherwise isn’t being truthful.

Avoid comparing your hair journey to others; you are unique, and there’s no need to emulate someone else. Instead, focus on the health of your hair. Healthy hair grows! By keeping it moisturized, protected, and happy, you’ll set yourself up for success on your hair growth journey.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

We can be our own harshest critics, but your hair is beautiful just as it is right now. It’s important to take a moment to recognize your achievements, growth, and progress. Remember, your hair is always growing, and it deserves your gratitude!

CONCLUSION

These commandments are a foundational guide for healthy natural hair. While individual hair needs vary, following these science-based tips and adapting them to your specific hair type will help you achieve optimal results