Set a Fancy Thanksgiving Table With Items From Second Hand Stores
Thanksgiving is just around the corner. With the growing popularity of Pinterest and the DIY (Do It Yourself) lifestyle there is even more pressure to set a fancy, chic and unique Thanksgiving celebration. Even if you are not one for fancy dining, you can still set a fancy Thanksgiving table with items found at second hand stores. If you’re hosting this year here’s how to create a memorable Thanksgiving seasonal experience from the table up.
Table Linens
The first thing to decide is whether you are going to use a tablecloth or placemats. Both tablecloths and placemats are frequently donated items at second hand stores. A tablecloth is a great choice if you will be hosting a large number of guests as it is often hard to find more than 6 matching placemats. Placemats are a great idea if you have a nice wood dining table. If you prefer the look of placemats but need a large quantity you can use 2-3 colors/prints to set in an alternating pattern.
Dinnerware
One of the main components to setting a fancy dinner table is to break out the good china. If you do not own high quality china it can be purchased at an unbelievably low cost at second hand stores. Dishes and china are one of the most often donated items at second hand thrift stores so it is very possible to find a complete set of dishes. If you are unable to find coordinating china, don’t worry; you can create a high quality “shabby-chic” look using mismatched plates, bowls, serving platters, etc.
Napkins
Whether your Thanksgiving table is fancy or just plain and simple, cloth napkins are essential. If you have the time, consider placing folded napkins atop the plate. You may instead decide to go with rolled napkins. You can easily find cloth napkins and napkin rings at most thrift stores. If you are crafty, you can make your own napkin rings.
Tabletop extras
The final touch to setting a fancy or elegant Thanksgiving table is to add serving pieces including a gravy boat, an ornate butter dish, wooden pepper grinder and a cloth-lined bread basket. Another must-have item is a centerpiece. All of these items can be found at second hand stores for a fraction of their original purchase price.
Many Thanksgiving tables are all created around a family heirloom centerpiece that has been used for generations, as are the family china, grandma’s sterling silver flatware and napkins rings created by the children.
Create the Thanksgiving theme throughout the house to bring the warm fragrances of fall into the dining room. A cozy atmosphere reminds everyone of Thanksgiving at Mom’s or Grandma’s house. Buying pumpkins real or faux, placing them on top of candlesticks or around a basket of fall leaves is always warm and inviting. Light the candles with cinnamon or pumpkin flavors and guest’s mouths will water when they enter the house. Click here for tips on how to decorate your Thanksgiving nest.
Thanksgiving is the perfect day to have that elegant dining experience that we all too often miss out on. Give your family a Thanksgiving to remember without emptying your wallet. Visit the Arc Store on Pinterest for more great decorating ideas from second hand stores.
