5 Steps for a Simple Thanksgiving Tablescape

2020 has been quite the year to remember! For some, it has been a source of anxiety and uncertainty. For many, there have been new lessons learned. For others, they have found their voice and have started to share more boldly. As we wait patiently for life to resume after the controversial Covid “scare,” and to see the REAL election results be announced, we must remember that no matter what the future holds for the citizens of the United States, there will always be HOPE and always be something to be THANKFUL for. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Because of all the restrictions in other states, and the fact that my husband has duty this year, we will be celebrating in a cozier setting at home. We’re excited to create new memories together as we experiment with new tastes for side dishes and desserts. But before any baking gets started, I wanted to make sure that I had an idea of how to set our table to make our Thanksgiving Day even more special.

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HERE ARE THE SIMPLE STEPS I USED TO CREATE THIS YEAR’S THANKSGIVING TABLESCAPE ON A BUDGET

1. START WITH A NEUTRAL PALETTE

I love neutrals! They are so easy to build on and add a collected look to any space. Each year, I like to change the main pieces up by simply adding different pops of color to a neutral tablecloth or table runner. I found this cotton ruffled runner that looks like linen on Amazon for $13. I tend to gravitate towards earth tones. They make the best backdrops and make it easy to come up with endless variations for a unique display that is fresh and welcoming.

These orange and yellow pumpkins add a nice pop of color.

2. SHOP YOUR HOME

This is where I shop our own home first. It is one of the best ways to save money and create something special and one of a kind. Two Thanksgivings ago, I added some nutshells and oranges to our Thanksgiving table because that’s what we had in our pantry and kitchen. While I’m on gathering-mode, I look for items with varying heights like these collected vintage candle sticks. I love their patina and how they add another dimension to the otherwise, flat table display.

These seeded eucalyptus branches were $7 at the grocery store. Our table is only 6 feet long, so two bunches worked out great. If your local supermarket doesn’t carry these, you can find suppliers on line who will ship fresh bunches right to your door. I love that they are simple, but elegant…in a rustic kind-of-way.

3. BRING THE OUTDOORS IN

This is one of my favorite things to do around our homestead. There are so many natural elements that find their way into our farmhouse. The wild turkey feathers are always fun to bring out each year. I added some of our found acorns from a recent hike in the back of our property. Smaller antlers and pinecones would be another great option for a rustic style table. With all the leaves turning color right about now across the country, using branches and greenery make a great foundation to add all your found outdoor treasures.

I love when the sun brightens up this otherwise dark dining room space.

Aren’t acorns the cutest little things? It’s hard to believe that this seed grows into a big oak tree, but then again the smallest mustard seed can grow into the largest garden plant. Some mustard trees can grow up to 9 feet tall. (Luke 17:6)

My husband cut some small logs from our property awhile back. They make the cutest coasters. I made these utensil burlap pockets (a few years ago) from left over burlap that we had from our garden. The napkins are made from linen tea towels we had in storage. I had just enough fabric to make six new napkins.

4. ADD MINI PUMPKINS

You can’t go wrong with white pumpkins! They are such an inexpensive way to add some beautiful fall touches to your table. They’re simple to grow each year. I simply toss them next to our vegetable garden and they decompose on their own and come next year, their seeds will start to grow. If you don’t have time to grow your own, they don’t cost a lot and are easy to find. Several of these cost less than $10 at our local farmer’s market.

Simple blessings aren’t hard to find, when you are actively seeking them.

5. LET YOUR CREATIVITY FLOW

Handmade rustic signs are a simple and affordable way to add some homemade goodness to your holiday decorating. Using chalk boards for table menus or leaning against a vase full of fall branches would make a beautiful center piece. There are so many things you can make with found items around your home and yard during the autumn season.

This special chalk art was created by our extremely talented teen. (smile)

Hope you’ll use some of these ideas to create your own special holiday table this year. Stay tuned for more holiday inspiration and other handmade ideas. Have a beautiful and blessed Thanksgiving!

5 Steps for a Simple Thanksgiving Tablescape