Simple Last Minute Thanksgiving Tablescape + Thankful printable

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If you’re looking for a simple last minute Thanksgiving tablescape, I have just the idea for you. Combine it with my free printable, and your Thanksgiving table is set!

I'm thankful thanksgiving tablescape

Simple Last Minute Thanksgiving Tablescape

Let’s get real. I am not one of those people who sets her table hours before events. In fact, I’m lucky if the table is set before the food is done. I’m also pretty frugal and don’t like to spend a lot of money things we don’t really need. However, the kids really like fancy meals sometimes so I’m excited to share this fun Thanksgiving Table setting made with fresh materials and other household items.

halos holiday centerpiece

Foundations of a Holiday Tablescape

I love simple and beautiful tablescapes. I’ll tell you exactly how I made this one, but before we get started it’s important to recognize elements of successful table decor.

Plates and napkins really set the foundation of your table. Do you want to use them for color or keep them neutral for simple elegance?

Do you like one main centerpiece or decorations running all down the center of your table?

Use height, texture, and color to create a warm and inviting atmosphere around your table. These elements will give you a beautiful tablescape regardless of the holiday. Swap out colors or textures according to the special event.

How to Make a Simple Thanksgiving Centerpiece

If you need a last minute Thanksgiving Tablescape idea, I think you’ll like this one. Use natural materials layered and stacked together intentionally. You’ll have your table set in no time!

Materials Needed for Thanksgiving Tablescape

Most of these materials will be laying around your house already. You just need to think about how to repurpose items. If you don’t have the exact item, that’s okay – swap it out for something else that will work.

  • Cheesecloth: This forms the base of your holiday tablescape. If you don’t have cheesecloth, use a different cream-toned material.
  • Burlap ribbon: Burlap ribbon comes in a variety of widths. I like 3 inch wide and sometimes layer it to make a wider strip. If you don’t have burlap ribbon, use a colorful velvet ribbon, or swap it out for something else that has texture.
  • Fresh, seeded eucalyptus: I like this to be fresh. It’s easy to find at most floral shops or in the floral department of your local grocery store. The fresher it is, the stronger it will smell.
  • Small oranges: These are our pops of color and interesting shapes. The vibrant orange offsets the eucalyptus greenery which gives our tablescape interesting color and points of interest.
  • Thanksgiving Thankful Printable: I lay these on top of the napkin and ask people to fill them out before we eat. It adds a point of visual interest and also gives your guests something to do while you’re getting last minute things on the table.
  • Candles, various sizes: There’s opportunity to add varying heights and fall color palettes with the candles. I kept mine all white, but did use all different sizes of candles for this Thanksgiving tablescape.

To make this gorgeous holiday tablescape, all you need to do is put down the cheesecloth and then top with the wide burlap ribbon. Then place and layer oranges, fresh eucalyptus, and candles in the middle of the table. Use a serving tray if you like, or simply put the items directly on the table.

thanksgiving table printable

After you set the table, make sure to include the Thanksgiving Thankful Printable at each place setting so everyone can reflect on their blessings this year!

Wonderful Halos Tower Table Centerpiece 3 (1)

Adding height adds a wow factor to this simple Thanksgiving tablescape. If you have time, build this fun orange tower for a true centerpiece. I used this easy tutorial here. Isn’t it cute?? And the best part is, the kids can grab the mandarins for a quick snack too.

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Simple Last Minute Thanksgiving Tablescape
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What Other Items Could I Use for a Thanksgiving Tablescape

I like to keep my home decor simple and as natural as I can. Making a beautiful Thanksgiving table makes your guests feel special and welcomed. If you don’t have the items above, use the same layering and placement idea with fall flowers or mini pumpkins.

If you want the traditional fall colors, add in a few dried leaves or make a colorful floral centerpiece the star of the show.

More Thanksgiving Ideas You’ll Love

About Michelle Marine

Michelle Marine is the author of How to Raise Chickens for Meat, a long-time green-living enthusiast, and rural Iowa mom of four. She empowers families to grow and eat seasonal, local foods; to reduce their ecological footprint; and to come together through impactful travel.

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