Yesterday I joined a group of bloggers for Project Design: Fall Tablescapes you can try before Thanksgiving. I love how everyone had something completely different from each other, but one common theme was that we all used things we’ve had forever. We may have included a few new things like table linens, but all used old or vintage pieces. I think creating a table using what we already own is both meaningful and creative. Not to mention thrifty!
A few years ago I started collecting old silver trays. You can find them at thrift stores or Goodwill for just a few dollars. Each is a little different, but they make the perfect chargers. I’ve even found a few that are smaller and perfect for child size plates. The birch wood pieces are from a DIY project. They are perfect for placecards. A slice of a branch cut halfway through the thickness holds a card or photo. You can see some of my other birch branch projects here, here and here.
A blanket at each seat is always a good idea. Even in the summer months, it gets chilly at night.
For place cards I use inexpensive watercolors, watercolor paper and a trimmer to cut perfect sized cards to use with the birch branch card holders. I love garden flowers or a combination of fresh herbs if that’s what I have. The napkins are from Serena & Lily and I found the small copper candle holders at Terrain for $4 each. They now come in four finishes, perfect for any table! Everything else on the table is vintage or everyday dishes and flatware. Easy and inexpensive. What’s your favorite approach to setting a pretty table that doesn’t break the bank?
And remember to check out Mary Ann, Cindy, Janet and Brooke’s ideas for setting a fall table for Thanksgiving or anytime!
Karen B. says
October 6, 2017 at 6:00 amAnnie,
What a great idea, the silver trays as chargers is inspired. I have quite a few of them already, I’ll definitely be giving this a try. Your table looks perfectly seasonal and inviting.
Happy fall.
Karen
annie diamond says
October 10, 2017 at 12:12 pmKaren,
I bet you have a bunch! And they are perfect for chargers. Hope you are safe out there in California with all the wild fires…so sad.
xx
annie
the gardeners cottage says
October 6, 2017 at 11:27 amlady i don’t know which one i like better! thankfully i don’t have to choose. you are so talented annie! love your style so much!!!!!! xo
annie diamond says
October 10, 2017 at 12:11 pmJanet,
This is why I love you!
xx
Mary Ann Pickett says
October 6, 2017 at 11:51 pmThis is so gorgeous. You have an amazing way with creating beautiful tablescapes!!
Stefanie Wall says
October 7, 2017 at 8:18 amAnnie, this is so good! I LOVE everything – the vintage silver trays, the diy birch branch holders, diy watercolor place cards, the S&L napkins., Terrain candle holders… but it’s the overall design, colors and placement of everything that has you written all over it!
annie diamond says
October 10, 2017 at 12:11 pmStefanie,
You are so kind and generous! I sure wish you all were coming to our house for Thanksgiving!
xo
annie
kim says
October 8, 2017 at 10:10 pmAnnie, Beautiful table. I love the idea of using silver platters as chargers! Like you I have some of these too and what a super idea. Also love the black table, the blankets on the benches and the napkins. Of course using what you have is so smart. I try to do that each Thanksgiving. I go thorough the cabinets and dig out what we have and try to create something new each holiday- maybe adding one new element. As always Annie, everything you do looks amazing! Thanks for the inspiration. xx Kim
annie diamond says
October 10, 2017 at 12:10 pmKim,
You are so sweet! You have been on my mind…I hope you are safe my friend!
xx
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