Here are a few tips and ideas for setting the Thanksgiving table, whether for a sit-down meal, or a buffet. Obviously, each family’s style, taste, and resources vary. My goal is just to remind us all that an attractive, functional holiday tablescape doesn’t have to cost much at all!

First, the basics. At this Emily Post link you’ll find a diagram for setting a table correctly. If you can never quite figure out which fork or spoon goes where–this link is for you! Where to put the bread plate? Check the diagram!

At this recipe tips link you’ll find a diagram that shows a sample buffet table traffic flow. It’s all about keeping guests moving smoothly through the line. I liked this layout! If serving buffet-style, bear in mind that your guests basically only have one free hand as they move through the line. Make it easy for them to serve themselves, and pick up what they need with one hand. Also, a buffet line is much more interesting if you vary the height of serving dishes. I use several thrifted pieces, footed bowls, etc., sometimes stacked inside each other to add height. (Maybe I’ll share photos of those next week.) There are examples all over the Internet of folks making pedestal cake stands, etc. by gluing a base to a plate with good strong glue. I’ve made a pedestal plate with a chunky wooden candlestick painted then glued to the bottom of a dollar store plate with gorilla glue. A buffet line is where you can use tall centerpieces. At a sit-down meal you’ll want to keep them low (or “loose”) so that guests can see each other across the table.

Here’s what’s on my table right now . . . a strip of burlap ($1.50) a $2.00  pumpkin, a few apples, a handful of cranberries, and dollar store silk leaves and vine.

 My burlap is just a plain strip. Feeling creative? Check out this link at Design Sponge, (use a fall motif)and this one at Craft Gossip.

I’m all about decorating with food. How about a pumpkin nestled in a tray of nuts (leave a nutcracker handy) or a mounded bowl of clementines and apples?  If you really have some time on your hands and are feeling artsy, you could try a make-it-yourself version of the beautiful centerpieces from Edible Arrangements.

Finally here are some cute d-i-y downloads for decorating the kids’ table that I came across recently at Skip to my Lou (a wonderful site, by the way!)

Author Jan Karon says, “Beauty is important in this fragile life.” It’s one of my favorite quotes. I believe it with all my heart. God’s creation is beautiful! There is something about beauty that feeds the soul, just like food nourishes the body. Bless your family and friends with little touches of beauty in your home . . . and it needn’t cost much at all!