How to Set the Perfect Thanksgiving Table

So you've invited twenty plus people to Thanksgiving Dinner, and they all said yes. What now? Well, if it's the dinner you need help with, sorry, I'm in the same boat. But if you're looking to make your table a Thanksgiving showcase, read on. There are even some simple tips for the "kiddie table."

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• table cloth
• napkins
• silverware
• runner
• placemats
• place cards
• tableware
• chargers
• fresh flowers
• crayons
• printer
• internet
• balloons(optional)

1. 
    

   Most importantly, know the shape and size of your table. You may think you know the size, but it's always a good idea to measure once more before you head out shopping. Most tables are one of three shapes: circle, square, or oblong. If you don't already have linens, you should plan on buying a tablecloth, runner, placemats, chargers, napkins, and napkin rings(optional).

2. If your guest list consist of over ten people, consider ordering your needs on line. There are very few stores that will carry enough inventory for you on their floor. If you are using more than one table make sure to buy the correct number of linens. And this goes without saying: Make sure they match. Do not buy different shades of the same color and try to convince yourself that they match. By the time you get it home from the store, the color will look different anyway.

3. 
    

   Tableware- Make sure you have enough for all your guest. If you don't you can do one of two things: buy the pieces you need, or go to the local party store and use paper supplies. You'll be surprised at what they have to offer. It's no longer just the tacky turkey in the middle of the plate smiling back at you. If this whole idea really has you perplexed, just think about the clean-up afterwards. I can bet that you may be considering paper products now.

4. After you've removed your linens from the package, you'll need to iron them. This is a tedious task, but well worth it. Begin by placing the tablecloth on your table. Next, place the runner on the table. Placemats for each guests can now be placed.

5. 
    

   Everything in it's Proper Place- Most of us think we know how to set a table, and some of us probably do. But the truth is that there really is a proper place for everything. If this isn't your cup of tea, feel free to do what works for you. But if you're eager to learn something new I encourage you to use the internet to your advantage. There are plenty of sites that break down the steps. My personal favorite is http://www.almanac.com/food/settable.php

6. 
    

   Special Touches
   Napkin Folding- Did you ever wonder how those napkin shapes are made when you're sitting at a restaurant? It always intrigued me too. That's why for the past few years I've been including this technique at my Thanksgiving table. One site that I really like is http://www.napkinfoldingguide.com/

7. 
    

   Place Cards- If you want to prevent mass confusion when you ring the dinner bell, invest in place cards. They're inexpensive, and they make your table look so nice. The simple ones can be purchased at a party store. If you're looking to do something special, this is your chance to bring some of the outside in. Collect some autumn leaves and paste them to your place cards. Other ideas include: pinecones, acorns, wheat, and small pumpkins

8. Candles- Yes they are a beautiful touch, but if you don't plan on lighting them, I would skip them all together. If you really want to include them in your Thanksgiving feast, it would be a better and safer idea to place them on a mantle instead of your table that day.

9. 
    

   Centerpiece- You can use the traditional cornucopia, which is guaranteed to look nice, but not very personal. I'm a big believer that when you invite guests into your home, it's your chance to show them just how much you appreciate their company. The centerpiece gives you a chance to do something personal for your guests, you can even get them involved. A centerpiece with everyone's name, or messages of thanks are great ideas. This is a chance to get the kids involved. Set up an arts and crafts table the day before, give them a little instruction, then let them go. This is also a good place to include some fresh flowers. A trip to your florist will provide you with some great ideas.

10. 
     

    The Kiddie Table- Forget the formal dining look here. The kiddie table should have just one theme...fun! Unless you're a dare devil I suggest paper products only on this table. But if you want to add some excitement, have some crayons waiting, and placemats that they can color. Another good idea is pilgrim and Indian hats. A final touch instead for the centerpiece can be balloons. Use autumn colors, and line the weight with leaves from outside. A website I suggest to look at for some of these ideas is http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/acProject?dlc=en&extcat=partykitsdecorations&lc=en&cc=us&extproject=thanksgivingkidstable&extsubcat=holidaysandspecialoccasions

Tips & Warnings

• Food may burn, relatives will quarrel, children will have meltdowns, and the family pet will steal some turkey. In other words, all the planning in the world may still leave you perplexed. My best advice is to enjoy the day, because when it really comes down to it, no one is going to remember how the table looked. But they will remember the time they had with one another.

Resources

• Thansgiving Kid Table
• Setting a Table
• Napkin Folding

[rewrite810]

on 1/13/2009 Great advice, thanks! I'm going to file this away for next fall! 5*!