Simple & Elegant Thanksgiving Table Setting

Set a simple and elegant Thanksgiving table setting that celebrates family with these ideas and inspiration. For more inspiration check out these colorful Thanksgiving table ideas.

Simple & Elegant Thanksgiving Table Setting

I feel like it’s the official start of the holiday season because this weekend I finally made some decisions and started plans on our annual Christmas party. But first we have to get through Thanksgiving! I love setting the table for Thanksgiving, and I think this year I’ve hit a great balance between simplicity and elegance.

I’m constantly adding new sets of dishes to my collection. I never buy more than 6 or 8 place settings so I wanted to set a table mixing and matching dinnerware sets. My idea is to show you how to make your everyday dishes stretch so you can accommodate more people around the holiday table.

For a different holiday look check out this black & white tablescape for Thanksgiving or this table for formal holiday entertaining. 

I’ve got some good tips for you below, and by the way… I think I nailed it on the centerpiece! *wink*

Mix & Match Dishes for Thanksgiving entertaining

You know I’m a big proponent of using plain white dishes, but lets be real – they can get pretty boring if you don’t dress them up in some way. All you have to do is bring in color or pattern and it will add instant pizzazz. See how I used my white dishes in this Friendsgiving Thanksgiving celebration.

For Thanksgiving you’ll be serving more people than usual and will need more dishes. It is 100% okay to mix and match colors or patterns for the holidays when you’re hosting a crowd. One way to do it is to add a single color set to your everyday white set.

HOSTESS TIP: Buy one new set of decorative dishes, and set each place in an alternating pattern with your everyday white dishes.

How to set the Thanksgiving table

• For my  table I bought this 16-piece dinnerware set in light blue. The color is so pretty and the shape of the bowls and mugs matches my white set perfectly. By alternating the aqua blue plates and bowls with the white, I now have 8 place settings instead of 4! AND your table is still perfectly coordinated!
• This tip works great for patterned sets too. Mix a solid set with a patterned set and you’ll have a fantastic looking table.
• I did the same with drink ware and napkins too. Half the places are set with my tan stems while the other half is set with my favorite vintage blue ones.
• Lets talk about some of the other details. Since the holiday is usually filled with family members of all ages, I made vintage inspired place cards that reflect that generational span. Follow my simple diy to make your own. 

Thanksgiving Table Setting Centerpiece

• I’m completely proud of myself for creating the floral centerpiece. I’ve been visually studying and dissecting the overflowing floral arrangements that are on trend right now, and I think I accomplished the look here. I spent less than $25 on flowers & filler, used floral foam and a low vase, and went to work. I love how it turned out!
• Flanking the centerpiece are small colorful branches I cut from the yard, and a couple of organic antlers.

I hope these tips help you in setting your own Thanksgiving table this year. You can set a stylish table without spending a fortune, and by investing in a single set of dinnerware you can double your place settings. Choose a color or patterns that speaks to you, or that goes with the decor you already have. I think you’ll love the look!