City Farmhouse
Are you hosting Thanksgiving this week? Some readers are already celebrating Canadian Thanksgiving and others are moving straight into Christmas preparations. I’ve always thought it would be nice if Thanksgiving came earlier so it didn’t sit so close to Christmas. At our house we’ve often enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner with a twinkling tree nearby, which makes the season feel relaxed and festive rather than rushed.
I prefer to slow the pace and spread out the holidays so we can savor each moment and celebrate with gratitude throughout the season.
Finding Home
Bring in cozy and festive touches in ways that inspire you. Natural decorating makes it easy to transition from fall to winter—use what you already have to evoke warmth and charm.
Fox Hollow Cottage
For table decor, think pinecones, sprigs of greenery, clusters of berries, rosemary, small pumpkins, or wheat stalks—whatever’s on hand. Keep it simple so setting the table is enjoyable, and pretty enough to feel special. That’s my approach.
This year I’m hosting Thanksgiving for twelve. Our tree is already up and sparkling, so I’ll be sharing that soon. Because our dining table isn’t large enough for everyone, we’ll use a folding craft table to make room for guests. It’s practical and keeps the gathering comfortable.
Home Stories A to Z
I’m excited to gather around the table this year. There is much to be thankful for.
I also wrote about the secrets to gracious hospitality over on Proverbs 31. You can read that post for tips on welcoming guests and creating warm, meaningful moments.
What are some of your favorite Thanksgiving traditions and memories?
- My new book, Simple Gatherings, offers easy ideas to reduce hostess stress and make entertaining more enjoyable. It’s available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble and makes a thoughtful gift.
Click here to find a curated list of my favorite entertaining and tabletop decor items.
Decor and supplies I like: Turkish towels (great as tablecloths), matte dinnerware, wood pedestals, tiered wooden trays, porcelain dinner dishes, bamboo or rattan cups, brass taper candle holders, small pedestals, striped cloth napkins, marble or acacia serving boards, stainless steel flatware, rustic pitchers, woven napkin holders, and a variety of colored taper candles. These simple pieces mix well to create a warm, layered table.
Our annual Inspired Room gift guides are ready. They’re a helpful place to find hostess gifts and holiday decor ideas, and we also offer a selection of Christmas decor curated for seasonal decorating.
More posts you might enjoy:
A Place at the Table: Festive Place Card Holders
Free Thanksgiving Printables
My Organic Thanksgiving Tablescape (and video!)