Nov 14, 2012
Thanksgiving Table Essentials
It's time to gather family and friends around the table to give thanks once again, and celebrate abundance with a traditional turkey feast! Thanksgiving is one week away and, even though you may have the menu planned down to a tee, have you thought about your table settings and where you'll seat everyone? Surely you don't plan on serving your fabulous Thanksgiving dinner on paper plates and toasting with plastic cups, or making your guests eat in shifts! Paper and plastic is definitnely the most convenient and quickest way to clean up afterward, but if you're going the extra mile in the kitchen to impress your guests with a gourmet feast, wouldn't you like to show off your best table setting skills, too? Ditch the paper and plastic ware, and set the perfect Thanksgiving dinner table with these essentials!
Dinnerware
If not on Thanksgiving, when else is it a better time to bring out the china? A simple, yet timeless collection of whiteware will always lend itself to a variety of holiday themes, no matter what time of the year it is. Whether it’s Sunday brunch with the family or a romantic dinner for two by candlelight, these classically chic dishes are the perfect canvas for your culinary creations. Mikasa Woven Cable Gold 5-Piece Dinnerware Set, $143, available at Amazon.
Wine Glasses
A nice glass of wine to compliment your perfectly roasted turkey is just what the doctor ordered, but don't get caught toasting with plastic cups on Thanksgiving! Home Essentials 12-Piece Wine Glass Set, $23, available at Sears.
Gravy Boat
Passing the gravy can be a messy endeavor, but with the help of a gravy boat you can keep more gravy on your plate, and less on the table! Gravy Boat with Saucer, $15, available at Crate & Barrel.
Carving Set
The carving of the turkey is a great Thanksgiving tradition, but don't think a steak knife is enough to do the job. A sturdy carving board, carving knife and fork are a must! Victorinox Rosewood Carving Set, $85, available at Bloomingdales.
Cornucopia
Every Thanksgiving feast is worthy of a lush centerpiece! Some warm-hued flowers cascading out of a cornucopia are the perfect way to celebrate and give thanks. FTD® Harvest Home Cornucopia, $60, available at Phillip's 1-800-Florals.
Table Runner
You don't need a different tablecloth for each season! Liven up your Thanksgiving table setting with a festive table runner in warm and autumnal colors instead. Florida Marketplace Sagamore Leaves Table Runner, $35, available at Bealls.
Charger Plates
Another fun way to dress up your Thanksgiving table is with charger plates. Not only will they add a pop of color to your table settings and tie your theme together, but will also serve to keep the tablecloth tidier! Set of 4 Round Melamine Chargers, $17, available at Target.
Napkin Rings
Want to add a extra style to your Thanksgiving place settings? Dress up your napkins with some fall-inspired napkin rings! Set of 4 Fall Leaf Napkin Rings, $15, available at Macy's.
Place Card Holders
It's not necessary to assign seating for Thanksgiving dinner but, if you'd prefer to do so, place card holders will make it easier to get everyone into their seats, as well as add a nice, personal touch to each place setting. Set of 4 Turkey Place Card Holders, $20, available at Amazon.
Bread Basket
Bread is always an important part of big meals and, whether you are baking it in your own home or serving a gourmet loaf from the bakery, a linen-lined basket will keep your bread fresh. Wireworks Bread Basket, $20, available at Amazon.
Serving Dishes
Whether you are serving buffet style or laying out the food on the table, keep your Thanksgiving feast presentation looking neat with coordinating serving platters and bowls. Italian Whiteware Handled Serving Platters, $24-$40, available at Sur La Table.
Dessert Plates
After everyone's had seconds and has taken a break from feasting, it's time to bring out the tea and coffee to accompany your homemade pumpkin pie! Laura Zindel Acorn Squash Dessert Plate, $8, available at West Elm.
