My Thanksgiving Table with Frederic Magazine
When Frederic Magazine recently asked me to write a story on setting the “Perfect Neutral Tablescape” for Thanksgiving, I jumped at the chance.



Here is the article I was honored to pen for Frederic Magazine and all the tips and tricks are below. A pinch me moment as it is the first article I have ever penned! Thankful for the opportunity, Frederic! Very Thankful.
If someone were to ask me my favorite color, I would probably answer “earth tones”. I am a lover of all things neutral. In a world of patterns and colors, I found a corner that is patternless and colorless, and I am happiest there. Cream linens, white dishes, dark clay vessels, and autumnal hued flowers set the scene. Add a festive, seasonal cocktail, your nearest and dearest, and toast to all the things you are thankful for. (And, yes, it goes without saying that you are very thankful for these 8 tips below!)
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Start with your Inspiration
When I go shopping for my centerpiece, I have no idea what the finished product is going to look like. I go to the store and see what inspires me from the produce section to the flowers section. I think about the varying textures, earthy tones, and a cohesive color palette and let this dictate the direction and tone of the table setting. For me, the Cattails, Fiddleheads, and Bunny Tails were the starting point here and I went from there.
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Carry your Color Palette Throughout
Once you decide on your centerpiece, this color palette will then dictate the rest. I usually limit it to the colors of the chosen foliage with my go-to neutrals. For example, I found a beautiful rust-colored rose for my flower arrangements and that inspired the rust- colored ribbon around my napkins.
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Add Special Touches
I added little name cards to each napkin. I used a handmade seeded paper that I bought on Etsy that can be planted and will sprout plants. I thought this was a creative touch to play on the theme of harvest, while still adding a personal touch.
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Layer in Seasonal Items
When I think of autumn I think of harvest, changing leaves, and cornucopias of bounty. I lean into this for my decor and layer in seasonal items. Ideas for Thanksgiving include: Gourds, Pumpkins, Pomegranates, Persimmons, Figs, even acorns or turning leaves from your front yard.
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Think beyond Fresh
Dried and preserved plants add a lot of visual interest and are a perfect addition for Autumn. From dried or preserved Wheat, Amaranth, or Grasses, they add a different texture to the mix. On this table, I used preserved Bunny Tails in my arrangements and dried Amaranth strewn across the table and tucked in each napkin. Best part, you can use them year after year!
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Skip the Tablecloth
As a mom of three toddlers, I can promise that you won’t find me steaming my tablecloth in my free time (what free time!?), so most of the time, I skip the tablecloth. One less thing to do on a busy day! And, it keeps the table minimal.
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Create a Bar Moment
I like to clear out my everyday decor and create an impromptu bar moment and serving station. I like to do one large, statement floral arrangement and then layer in seasonal items. I add a water pitcher, an ice bucket, cocktail glasses, and a few bottles of wine and all the fixings for our guests’ cocktail of choice.
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Offer a Special, Seasonal Cocktail
Growing up, I remember my mom and dad would make a special cocktail for the events they hosted. It was a fun, creative, and special touch. So, I have made it my mission to carry on the seasonal cocktail torch. My go-to recipe this year is here.

