Create a beautiful fall table using what you have and try it before Thanksgiving. I think creating a table using what we already own is both meaningful and creative. Not to mention thrifty!
Use old silver trays as chargers
A few years ago, I started collecting old silver trays. You can find silver trays in thrift stores or Goodwill for just a few dollars. Each is a little different, but they make the perfect chargers. I’ve even found some smaller and perfect-for-child-size plates.
Birchwood pieces for place card holders
The birchwood pieces are from a DIY project. They are perfect for place cards. A slice of a branch cut halfway through the thickness holds a card or photo.
Add a blanket or a wrap on each seat for an outdoor dinner party
A blanket at each seat is always a good idea. Even in the summer months, it gets chilly at night.
Use a variety of vintage or new glassware in different colors
Pots of fresh herbs for flowers and simple candle holders
Simple watercolor cards are painted to create one-of-a-kind place cards
Supplies needed for watercolor cards:
- A watercolor set and paintbrushes
- heavy watercolor paper
- A paper trimmer
- Sharpie pen
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 linen napkins are from Serena & Lily, and I found the small copper candle holders at Terrain for $4 each. They 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?
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annie diamond
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Annie,
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
Karen,
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
lady 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
Janet,
This is why I love you!
xx
This is so gorgeous. You have an amazing way with creating beautiful tablescapes!!
Annie, 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!
Stefanie,
You are so kind and generous! I sure wish you all were coming to our house for Thanksgiving!
xo
annie
Annie, 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
Kim,
You are so sweet! You have been on my mind…I hope you are safe my friend!
xx
a