I love using Thanksgiving as a way to reflect on the many blessings in my life. Normally we use this time to connect with family and friends, share traditions and celebrate each other around a table full of fabulous food. 

Unfortunately for most of us, things will be a bit different this year. Our home, which was originally planned to be the gathering spot of over 20 relatives from around the country, has now shrunk down to my family of five plus my parents. Making the decision to postpone our large family gathering was not a decision any of us wanted to make, but getting together with that many people felt a little uncomfortable given our country’s current situation. 

Instead we will focus on knowing that when the time is right and our much needed family get together will be one for the record books. Hopefully soon the life we were all accustomed to will return to normal: travel will resume, fears will dwindle, and hugging will return as the official greeting between friends.

This year, although our celebration will be small, I will do my best to make it just as special. Instead of dwelling on what it would have been, I will focus on being thankful for the people who can still be with me at the table. So why not give them a beautiful place to celebrate!

NOTE: I never purchase items for a new decorating project without first gathering up a few items I already own. Sometimes changing their surroundings can give them a whole new life and save you money at the same time!

Below are the details of the table I decorated for our Thanksgiving feast this year. Like I mentioned before, with such a limited number of family members coming I kicked things up a bit. If you’re planning on quite a few more attendees though, keeping it simple is key (for your sanity and your pocketbook)!

1. After gathering up the items I already had, I wanted a touch of gold for a pop of color, so I chose a simple table runner from Cost Plus.

2. The placemats I chose were dark stained natural fiber material. I love their texture and how they contrasted against my white plates.

3. The wooden chargers were a bit of a splurge. I’ve been looking for something similar for quite some time, and I knew when I found them I couldn’t resist!

4. The white dinner plates are my everyday dinnerware. I love that they’re simple enough that I can incorporate them easily into most tablescapes, but they’re still perfect for everyday use.

5. The smaller appetizer plates I used I actually inherited from a dear friend a number of years ago. It’s difficult to tell from the photo, but they have a simple leaf motif and small snowflakes in matte gold. They’re no longer available but here are a few similar options.

   1. Hearth and Hand Stoneware plates from Target.

   2. Vintage inspired glass salad plates from Pottery Barn

6. I love repurposing things, which I also incorporated into my table. I used a clear plastic pitcher as a flower vase and matching plastic cups as votive candle holders.

7. The greenery I picked was a mix of dried grasses and stems from Hobby Lobby. I love the look of real greenery but knew it wouldn’t last, so this was a great alternative. Plus, it went along great with my natural theme.

There you have it! A beautiful custom Thanksgiving tablescape that will WOW your guest but won’t break the bank! 

Most of us have plenty to be thankful for but this year it might take a little more effort to embrace it. Just know that this pandemic can’t last forever, and before you know it we’ll be back to life as usual!

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones. May this holiday bring you plenty of happiness and a very full belly!