A Riot of Thanksgiving Colors

• This week I bring you a new post for your eyes, but a trip back in my photo archives to our family's Thanksgiving table from November, 2015.  This holiday fell during my prolonged absence from blog world.  I thought that this would be an appropriate time to slip it in, hopefully for your pleasure.  I was still not back to full speed after my second knee replacement and subsequent back problems, but I was determined to lay a welcoming table for our guests.  It was a special moment because all four of my grandchildren would be at one of my holiday tables together for the first time.  Today I set a table for 13.  I thought that I would be preparing two tables, but Sweet Mister and KC, my daughter, were dead set on having everyone at the same table...so I happily obliged them.  This time there is a boat load of pictures, so proceed with fair warning. We gathered in the dining room.  Come on in... 

My inspiration for my Thanksgiving tablescape was...

This Williams Sonoma Harvest Jacquard tablecloth.  

 It pretty much jumped out of the closest and into my hands. Because there were so many of us seated at my dining table, charger plates were out of the question.  I liked the way the way the dinner plate

perched firmly on the dividing line between two of the color blocks of the tablecloth.

 Again, as a concession to the cozy nature of the place settings, I placed the napkins on the top edge of each dinner plate.  I couldn't bear the thought of covering up the elaborate design of the dinner plate.

 If you've been reading my blog for a period of time, you perhaps remember that come Fall, I find myself repeatedly using faux elements for centerpieces.  This table was no exception. The Autumn leaves are nothing more than several garlands from Hobby Lobby.  I've had this one for many years; it has earned its keep.  The small pumpkins were extra party favors from one of my Chi Omega luncheons.

 The pair of lanterns were also from Hobby Lobby.  I chose them because they were rather subdued and didn't try to fight for attention.

Although I wasn't able to post on my blog for a season, I was still delighted to continue adding to my collections.  I don't think that I have shared this Mottahedeh tureen with you, yet.  Again, it is lovely, regal even; but it maintains a quiet presence in the midst of a very exuberant design.  I like it a bunch!

 I think that you will agree with me that the star of this production was the dinner plate.


I kind of held my breath as I placed this Royal Crown Derby Olde Avesbury on the quite busy tablecloth.  It could have been a design disaster...but for some reason, it just worked.  I framed it with the gold toned flatware that I found at an estate sale for a steal.


The Vieri optic amber goblet and the AJKA Arabella red wine begged to be included in my design.  Entertaining tips: The Vietri is still in production, and at $21.00 per stem, I think that it is well priced for a crystal goblet.  They are available in an assortment of colors and work equally well in classic and contemporary settings.  The wine is no longer in production, but you can find it quite regularly via eBay

The tiny spots of lilac are charming little antique Limoges open salt cellars that belonged to our dear Nana.  I love the opportunity to use them whenever possible.  The beaded napkin rings are really candle rings.  Remember to think outside "the box". 

I look forward to this year's Thanksgiving feast.  I'm playing with different elements for my new tablescape.  Is your table already set?  I'll bet that I find lots of inspiration when I visit your blogs this week!  This year I am thankful that I live in the United States of America.  After a turbulent election season for all sides, I find encouragement as I watch the beginning of the peaceful transition that plays out between the current executive administration and the new administration.  We are truly blessed.

This week I'm joining:

Tablescape Thursday with Susan @ Between Naps on the Porch