Dressing The Table 101

Once again it's that time of year, when family and friends come together to express their gratitude for a myriad of things. Whatever you're grateful for this Thanksgiving, make sure your loved ones gather around a festively stylish table.

First up: Simply Pearfect. There is something to be said for keeping things simple. A clean white dinner plate, linen napkin and a perfect pear doing double duty as both a place card and dessert. Who knew setting the table could be so easy? No muss, no fuss.

Building on the pear setting, you could turn things up a notch by adding a linen runner down the center of the table and bowls filled with walnuts and more pears. Have the kids get in on the act by making cut-outs of their favorite leaves. Small pumpkins and candles round out the table top.


For those whose tastes lean towards more formal settings, this table is absolute perfection. The table is dressed with a gold linen tablecloth and a tonal embroidered runner. Oak leaf printed china is accentuated by an ivory napkin folded in a cone shape, secured with gold ribbon and oak leaf sprigs. Once again the theme is carried over with printed place cards and mini cornucopias. Notice how the understated silverware doesn't compete with but enhances the overall design? Your mother would be proud.


Fashionistas know metallics are very big this season. Bring a bit of the runway to your table this year. Cornflower blue sets off the golden pumpkins, while black enamel cutlery anchors this tablescape nicely.


We can't forget the kids! These tables are sure to keep the little ones entertained thru dinner. Simple white dinner plates topped with mini pilgrim ships, which the little artistes can construct themselves. A larger ship filled with nuts completes the look.


Tom the Turkey takes center stage with this table. Large sheets of construction paper can be cut to fit the table at your local craft store, just be sure to have the dimensions handy. Have the kids cut fringe along the edges like moccasins. To make this table truly interactive (and engage those with a short attention span) be sure to have crayons within reach.


And what would Thanksgiving be without a festive cocktail? The Cranberry Fizz is a definite crowd pleaser.

1 ounce Charbay ruby red grapefruit vodka
2 ounces Champagne
1 ounce cranberry juice
1 ounce black currant juice
Chill vodka, Champagne, and juices, then mix in a champagne glass. Garnish with 4 or 5 cranberries. As always, please remember to sip responsibly!

Have a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving, everyone.