Thanks were given, tables were scaped

I need to order sushi immediately.

The mood board came to life!

It can’t be a coincidence that this was our most successful Thanksgiving yet—dinner was served on time, there were no cooking calamities, and I even managed a morning workout. The power of the tablescape….

Here’s what I learned:

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The tablecloth I purchased was too similar in value and color to our plates. Instead, I used it for the serving station and relied on a simple linen tablecloth for the dinner table. This provided contrast and allowed the elements (like the blue-footed shot glasses for post-dinner Mirto) to stand out.

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As I set the table, it was clear that I needed placemats. The settings felt too bare with the napkins and napkin rings on the plates. Placemats, or perhaps a runner, would add much-needed depth and texture. I’ll be on the hunt…

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Speaking of silverware, I think 2025 is the year we get real, beautiful flatware. I fell in love with this set by Gourmet Settings, which I featured in a table setting on my Instagram Stories. The reviews convinced me!

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I didn’t discuss flowers in my last newsletter, but Thanksgiving needs freshness and color, my god. I was glad I had moodboarded ahead of time—it was clear I should choose white and yellow flowers. I found white snapdragons and yellow freesia at BTS Korean Market, the best place in the neighborhood for fresh flowers.

And this simple IKEA vase makes even the simplest of arrangements look chic.

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Since we had a larger guest list this year, we decided to buy a compact folding table. I hadn’t considered how thin the table’s width was and how it wouldn’t leave me much room to add bowls and dishes as centerpieces. I did sneak in two bud vases to add color and texture.

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We brought our outdoor wooden bench in for seating, which lent much-needed warmth to the metal-legged folding table. I will keep an eye out for wooden folding chairs on Facebook Marketplace.

Until next year… 🦃