Designing the Perfect Thanksgiving Table

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, presenting us all a wonderful opportunity to showcase our creativity, style and flair. I am often asked by friends and clients alike about what I consider to be the “necessary ingredients” for designing the perfect Thanksgiving dinner table. Whether you’re going for a look that’s “understated rustic,” or “elevated chic,” it’s important to consider functionality, theme and, of course, Feng Shui:

Functionality

Thanksgiving is all about spending time with family and friends – and the dinner table has a pivotal role to play! Thus, it is crucially important to design a tabletop that is functional, inspirational and allows for fluid conversation between guests. The perfect dinner table will fit everyone comfortably with at least 20-25 inches of table space per person. If the re-arranging of dining room furniture is required, be sure to account for cleared walkways and space behind chairs (let the good “chi” flow). Table decorations should never block visibility between guests.

Theme

This is a wonderful time of year to celebrate the bounty of Mother Earth. I love to incorporate neutral autumnal colors and forest elements (think bi-tonal magnolia branches juxtaposed with white gourdes and pine cones). Dinnerware should complement your centerpiece, not take away from it. Mix and match patterned plates for an eclectic look or commit to a monochromatic color scheme for a more refined style. The important thing is that you identify a theme and stick with it – let your creativity run wild!

Feng Shui

With Thanksgiving we emphasize and celebrate the Earth and Fire elements:

– Earth Element: This element celebrates the bounty of the earth and is represented using light yellow and sandy brown colors. Incorporate the grounding, solid square shapes representative of the earth element wherever possible. Earthenware containers are highly recommended.

– Fire Element: This element has a nourishing and supportive relationship with the Earth Feng Shui element and is represented using reds, oranges and gold. Incorporate triangular shapes wherever possible to represent fire. Work candles into centerpieces or light up the fireplace to warm up and purify the energy of your home.

Wishing you a safe and happy holiday from our family to yours.