There is something intimidating by the carcass of a turkey with its epic preparation. The sides are another challenge and, god help them, some of your guests may expect marshmallows in their sweet potatoes or gravy made from the gizzards. Keep the bah humbug in the next holiday and focus on what makes the event an annual highlight, simplify Thanksgiving in a relaxed manner with some preparation and less rules.
Using everyday tableware meant one less task from not having to excavate the good china, which is spruced with accents for a more personalized, laid back gathering.
How to Simplify Thanksgiving:
- Eschew the customary rigmarole of polishing silver and organizing the wedding china by using what you have. Add personalized details like gilded placemats and decorative food as props.
- Consider scale in your tablescape. Cake plates elevate the style of desserts, a pedestal bowl of apples and teacups of dried fruit and candies are both decorative and offer the guests varied options to entice the senses.
- Flowers are always a table setting must but rather than choose expected fall arrangements with lots of sunflowers and coffee berries, try something more elegant but seasonal-friendly with orange dipped roses. Three day blooms add to the romance.
- Paper napkins are acceptable when they hallmark the season and look less papery when complimented by other notes on the table.
- Candlelight does not only have to be illuminated from a candelabra, a simple votive also achieves a comforting look
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- Edibles that add intrigue to the setting.
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- Orange dipped roses is a floral favorite but still seasonal.
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- Fresh apples: simple and stunning.
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- Consider varying levels on the table, such asa a pedestal plate with an option of bite-sized desserts.
