The dinner table is a central part of Thanksgiving entertaining. Host Sharon Anderson meets with designer Craig Olson for some creative ways to bring personality and style to table settings. Old-Fashion Natural Country Table Setting: This first example utilizes a beautiful table runner and an old-fashioned country look. Olson mixed and matched the dishes and chose colors that went well with the table-length runner. For a party favor, cashews were wrapped in small packages with ribbon that matched the runner. Natural wood napkin rings and holders were used for the country effect. The centerpiece (figure A) was made with hydrangeas, dried roses, pine cones and other natural products. Another great idea for a centerpiece (figure B) would be to use fruit (lemons and limes), vegetables (artichokes) and preserved lemon leaves, placed in an antique-looking basket.
Traditional Table Setting -- This particular table setting utilizes your heirloom china and favorite pieces, so dig out all the dishes and cutlery that have been handed down in your family. A classic white tablecloth was used, along with traditional place mats. The key to the dishes is that they go together. For example, a floral pattern was used for the dishes, which means Olson picked cups and saucers that also had a floral design. Whatever pattern (flowers, stripes, solid colors, etc.) is chosen, be sure to repeat the look with all accessories. All the dishes in this setting had a gold trim, so Olson chose glasses with gold trim.
One centerpiece (figure C) idea would be to go with a floral arrangement. This one has an autumn theme with flowers (hydrangeas, roses, etc.), silk leaves, plastic gourds and silk ribbon. Note: Create the arrangement in an inexpensive container, then place the entire arrangement in a traditional china bowl. This adds a special touch to the table, and it blends in with the decor. Another container idea would be a gold roll basket or a silver vegetable dish.
More Thanksgiving table settings
RESOURCES :
Holiday Fun Year-Round With Dian Thomas
ISBN: 0962125725
Fun at Home
ISBN: 0962125792
Author: Dian Thomas
Dian Thomas Communications
Website: www.dianthomas.com
GUESTS :
Craig Olson
Interior Designer
Dayton's Interior Design Studio
PO Box 555
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: 612-375-3119
Fax: 612-375-2952
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