Entertaining Made Lovely: Setting the Thanksgiving Table

{also featured on KCMag.com}

Are you hosting a Thanksgiving gathering at your house this year? Do you want to make your gathering even more memorable and unique without spending a lot of money? If so you are in luck with these lovely table setting ideas - they add luster on a budget...all of them can be done for less than $20 each (score!). 

Hopefully they inspire you as you as much as they do me.

1.Thrift Store Chic

This table is simple and unique set with natural touches as well as some beautiful vintage green glassware. I have the same green glassware that I bought for super cheap at Savers Thrift Store in Olathe. I use it for both beverages and as candle votives.

Photo credit: unknown

2. Budget Beautiful

This centerpiece idea is simple yet classic using votives with clean lines and fall elements such as fresh cranberries and various nuts. I suggest hitting up a Marshall's Home Goods store for the various sized votives. You can use them as centerpieces for every holiday, so you get a lot of bang for your buck.

Photo credits l to r: Pottery Barn and simplifiedbee.com 

3. Freshly Frugal

This table is set with natural fall elements (fresh berries and pears - you can use artificial berries to if you wish). For even more creativity and multitasking you can use the pears as place cards as well. 

Photo credits l to r:  Martha Stewart  and William's Sonoma

4. Jewel Toned 

This table setting looks so much more expensive than it actually is. Buy some pretty jewel toned fabric  from Bon Bon Atelier in Westport as well as 5-7 inexpensive pumpkins in small to medium sizes. Spray paint your pumpkins a metallic gold color and group the in the center or your table. Layer in your plates and napkins and you are all set!

Photo credit: Martha Stewart

5. Unexpected Touches

This one is probably the most budget friendly setup, yet it still has some unexpected touches. Go to Dollar Tree and purchase 5-7 hurricane glasses in varying sizes for $1 each. Then simply go out to a field and snip some beautiful natural grasses, wheat, etc. You can fill the remaining vases with fresh or artificial berries. Keep it simple with white plates and napkins. 

Photo credit: Better Homes and Gardens

6. Perfectly Pumpkin 

This look uses pumpkins in unexpected ways. All you have to do is hollow out  your pumpkins and use them as candle votives or floral vases. If you want a more subdued look like the floral inspiration, you can spray paint the outsides only of your pumpkin before adding the florals.

Photo credits l to r: Sara Westbrook for One Charming Party and Family Circle

7. Cool Kids Tables

Usually the kid table is an afterthought...put a little thought into it this year and you will have some happy, thankful kiddos. Adding kraft paper for the table cloth and fun touches such as hand drawn placemats and unique games does the trick. Don't forget to add the crayons.

Photo credits l to right: Southern Living and Disney Family Fun

I hope you have found some inspiration for your Thanksgiving table setting!

PS. I recommend adding candles to your setting no matter which one you choose to go with or what time of day...candles just make anything feel more special. :)