Happy Thanksgiving! This may be the year you have time to experiment with your table! You may be showing it off to others via Zoom! It still brings a sense of normalcy to go through our usual routines. As this table can be up for two weeks, the orange grape vine pumpkin takes the center location (It’s easy to see over as well.) with individual vases of flowers, my grandmother’s china, new napkins from Williams Sonoma and turkeys from See’s Candies. We are at least ready for the dessert course and will enjoy the table whether we eat there or not!

Are you planning a holiday table for a special dinner? Whether a gourmet feast or a pot luck, setting the mood for the gathering can be achieved with a table that says “I’m excited you are here!” From table linens, china, centerpieces, even chairs, the key is color! Repetition of color is what you notice first! It gives the setting continuity. Not enough dinner plates from your china pattern? Every other place setting can be from two different sets or every other one can be a totally unique plate. Once you have used coordinating dishes for a unique look, matched dishes will look boring! The challenge is using variety while maintaining the color theme. The personal details on the table can lead through family history, travels or collections. Adding a garland of fresh greens is aromatic. Candlelight is flattering. If children are coming, provide a craft activity and extend the table to include them! Have appetizers ready before guests arrive and a use a simple menu to enable the hostess to enjoy the guests. Many dishes are fine at room temperature. Here’s to a happy holiday season! #Champagneforall #HolidayDining