By most standards, Thanksgiving is pretty much the most maximalist holiday of the year — and that’s a bold statement considering it’s sandwiched between Halloween and Christmas. Those other celebrations definitely take things to the extreme, but they really don’t hold a candle to the excesiveness that is Thanksgiving.
On Thanksgiving, the bigger the turkey, the better. We cram as much stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce into our bellies as possible in one sitting — but still manage to save enough room for pumpkin pie and other yummy Turkey Day desserts. Thanksgiving is when we give our stretchy pants a run for the money. It’s go big or go home time.
The only exception? We think there’s a case to be made that minimalist decor is just what our Thanksgiving table needs to balance out the decadence of everything else. This Thanksgiving, let the food be the star by setting a chic, modern table.
Originally published October 2016. Updated October 2017.
-
DIY Thanksgiving coasters
Image Credit: Rachael Adele Every time your guests lift their glasses, they’ll get a hint of holiday cheer.
-
DIY clay bowl place card holder
Image Credit: Alice & Lois Gilded clay bowls double as minimalist place card holders and gifts for your Thanksgiving guests.
-
Modern Menus
Image Credit: Almost Makes Perfect Do away with the stodgy calligraphy and opt for clean, modern menus instead.
-
Natural modern
Image Credit: haven.studios/Instagram A sprig of sage brings life to sparse white plates and linens, along with small gourds and a sleek horn.
-
Rustic modern tablescape
Image Credit: Avenue A rustic wooden table with a linen table runner and golden candle holders make for a modern yet rustic look.
-
Simple silverware
Image Credit: Fantabulosity This simple printable is a modern way to present your silverware, no napkin ring needed.
-
Natural neutrals
Image Credit: Tone on Tone Swap out the bright oranges, reds and yellows of fall in favor of a light, neutral color palette.
-
Sleek servers
Image Credit: cb2 Golden serving spoons in a sleek, modern design add just enough glamor to your minimal tablescape.
-
Rosemary sprig place cards
Image Credit: Spoon Fork Bacon Pairing sleek black napkins with a rosemary-adorned place card is a simple way to make a big impact.
-
Green runner
Image Credit: Home Depot Run a line of green foliage and white tapers down the table in lieu of more ornate centerpieces.
-
Ceramic serving dish
Image Credit: aveshamichael/Etsy Forgo the cheesy leaf-printed serving-ware and opt for this gray and gold ceramic platter.
-
Golden place tags
Image Credit: Elements of Style Put a modern spin on nature by spray-painting leaves gold and using them as place cards on white plates.
-
Keep it simple
Image Credit: Homey Oh My Choose a single, simple centerpiece and pair it with neutral tableware and linens for a cool, calm look.
-
Woodland deer table runner
Image Credit: KitchStudios/Etsy A neutral table runner with a simple print adds just enough Thanksgiving flair to your table.
-
Hanging pumpkins
Image Credit: pipedreamcreative/Instagram Geometric sculptures holding tiny white pumpkins and air plants will make a statement this Thanksgiving.
-
Golden neutrals
Image Credit: ourheartsandhomes/Instagram A variety of textures and neutral colors paired with gold make for minimalist decor with surprising depth.
-
In the clear
Image Credit: Cedarwood Weddings Clear glass plates and vases keep your table simple — the focus is on your table and linens.
-
DIY holiday napkin rings
Image Credit: Say Yes Copper paint and polymer clay are all you need to make these simple yet festive napkin rings.
-
Lucite Thanksgiving table
Image Credit: Sketch 42 It doesn’t get much simpler than a lucite table decorated with a few gold pumpkins and branches.
-
DIY metallic leaf tealight holders
Image Credit: Twinspiration Just a couple of these metallic leaf candle holders on your table will set the scene without going overboard.
-
Simple Thanksgiving place setting
Image Credit: Julep Eucalyptus sprigs tied with leather cord around white napkins gives your table a clean, autumnal look.
-
Minimalist Table Decor
Image Credit: Alice & Lois/design by Liz Smith/SheKnows Pin these ideas before you forget them!
More Stories from Food & Recipes
Leave a Comment