Monday, November 16, 2009

Thanksgiving Table 2009 and the Kid's Table too!

I recently posted a little peekaboo here of the supplies I gathered to make our Thanksgiving Day table. It's now finished and ready for Thanksgiving 2009!

Take a look before it gets messed up with turkey gravy and cranberry sauce!



My intentions for this year's setting were to have a Natural Rustic tone with a hint of elegance. I decided against using all the pillar candles and just used two candles instead. I DID use everything else previously mentioned though.

The table has all muted colors to carry peace and a calming atmosphere to the table. I really focused on bringing a lot of texture to the table for these colder months. I also worked to maintain the simple rustic feel, borrowing nature and taking it in.

I used burlap to keep the table current and updated, while the candles gave a classic timeless look.

I made a bow and tied the long burlap table runner off with an aqua-sage wired ribbon and let the burlap and ribbon pool on the floor.

I did a subtle fold on the napkins to maintain the simple look I wanted to achieve. I special ordered the color of these AMAZING tags from etsy.com!
LOVE LOVE them!
I used them to embellish the napkins. Every guest can take a moment to reflect on what they're thankful for and take the tags home.

They read "Count Your Blessings"
I made this wheat bouquet using inspiration and a tutorial from Martha Stewart. Once again, this brought the nature in...

I wrapped and glued twine around a couple of candles.

For an easy way to post the GRAND Thanksgiving menu I took a photo frame and typed out the menu. Then I easily traced some leaves onto it.


etc, etc, etc...


The kid's table was {extra} fun to play with. I found this table from Pottery Barn Kids several years ago and it has always been the boys' special table.

I've used these adorable placemats (also from Pottery Barn Kids) every year. It's a little tradition.


I spent a bit of time brainstorming a fun centerpiece and came up with nothing! Then a GIANT size thank you to Beth for inspiring me to make this CUTE Mayflower ship! She has a special talent with decorating that always excites me. I also used some inspiration from Martha Stewart too, although I will say my first attempt at making a ship was a huge failure! But I'm happy with the big basket choice.
I filled the ship with various nuts and pears.
I used burlap for the sails, sticks to keep my natural theme, and a Longaberger basket for the ship. (see this post for more of my Longaberger love affair!)For their placecards I used pears and pinned in their names.


And that's a wrap for Thanksgiving Tables 2009!




Curious minds ask me, "why go to all the fuss??"

I want a corner of comfort and warmth


A few moments in time to escape the frazzle of rushed living

A chance to still the race in our heads and calm our eyes

I want to create a haven for hearts to rest and feel loved

I want an atmosphere that captures the minutes of our holiday
creating forever memories


A place for loved ones to gather 'round with warm chatter lifting up to the ceilings

A home sweet home for the holidays

124 comments:

The Tuscan Home said...

Lisa, you are so talented....what beautiful tablescapes you've created. I am very impressed. I love the menu and and the Mayflower boat...what a great idea! Thank you so much for sharing. As always, you always inspire, thank you! ~Liz

Country Wings in Phoenix said...

OMG Lisa...
How simple and elegant have you made this wonderful Thanksgiving table. What a wonderful feist of beautiness that you have beheld. I love this burlap table runner with the white pumpkins, the lovely table white plate settings. The little menu is just the right touch, and I love the blessing tags attached to the napkins. How elegant is this?

The kids table is just as cute. What child would not want to sit by the Mayflower. That is the cutest idea ever.

I don't know how you sleep at night. You must have wonderful ideas swimming all the time in your head. This is just exquisite. I love it. Thanks for sharing this beautiful Thanksgiving feast setting with me today.

Please stop by and say hi. I so love the company. Country hugs... Sherry

Old Time Cindy said...

Your table is gorgeous. No one is even going to notice the food! LOL!
Living it up at Lakewood,
Cindy

mama hall said...

it looks lovely! what a wonderful hostess you are. any guest would feel very warm and very welcomed at your Thanksgiving meal. :) great job!

Natasha in Oz said...

You have created 2 very warm and welcoming tables that exude simplicity and hospitality. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
Best wishes, Natasha.

Jenny said...

Gorgeous layering of textures! I love what you did. I set a great Christmas table but at Thanksgiving we have between 25 to 30 people. I have enough china for everyone and use different sets on different tables with various linens...and it looks pretty good, but the stupid folding chairs make it look ucky. And there's no way I have enough chairs (or want to make chair covers) for all those people!

Janean said...

truly gorgeous! it's wonderful when a hostess takes the time to make dining an experience that pleases all five senses.

Ruby Red Slippers said...

This is great...I will be copying-LOVE it!!!

Judy@cutest-little-things.blogspot.com said...

I was just going to email you this morning to show me the pictures!!! I LOVE it all! You did an amazing job! I don't which table I love more!

caveman said...

I can't tell you enough how special we feel because you pay attention to every detail. It makes life perfect! Thank you for all your hard work. Every time I see walk past this table, I feel like I'm in a dream; It's that good.

Jane said...

Lisa,
Your tables look wonderful...so very warm and inviting! The "Mayflower" is an inspired centerpiece for the children's table. And your menu sounds amazing, too! I once had a student in one of my tablescape classes tell me that food always tasted better when the table looked pretty. Your meal is going to be DELICIOUS!

You have a very creative soul. Don't EVER let doubt tell you otherwise. You can always glean inspiration from others, but always add your personal "stamp" on it.
Hugs,
Jane (artfully graced)

jaquelyn {mama thoughts} said...

Lisa, I love it! You are very talented. :) It looks so lovely, welcoming, inviting...I want to come eat dinner at your house! ;)

Kelly Miller said...

It looks gorgeous and almost too pretty to ever use. I love the kids' table, too.

Now my question is - where do you put all the crap that usually winds up stacked on the table (in my house anyway)?

kTb said...

You are so creative and talented!!
I really love how informal, yet classy and stylish each table is done.
I like not having a "head" of the big table; it always seems so "awkward".

Corinne Morash said...

WOW! I'm coming to your pretty house for Thanksgiving! :) Soooo adorable!

Jen said...

really pretty :)

Tricia said...

You are just so creative! Love it.

Heidi Boos said...

Wow! This is amazing! You put so much time, love, and thought into this that I know just how special it will be for Thanksgiving. I think ONE of my favorite parts is the way you tied the burlap runner with a ribbon and let it rest on the floor. So beautiful!!

Gypsy Heart said...

Your table is truly elegant with a rustic flavor...beautiful! I also love the special table for the kids ~ makes them feel very honored I'm sure. Your menu is cleverly displayed and sounds delish! What time should I be there? ;-)

Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment...appreciated!

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Lisa, such cute tablescapes! I love them BOTH! I love all the texture in the adult table... the burlap, the twine, the centerpiece... and those placemats are SO cute with your neat little ship. You scored an A with me!

XO,

Sheila :-)

Melissa Miller said...

Hi Lisa,
I just happened to be online and read your sweet comment. I always enjoy looking at all of your photos and you don't ramble girl. You are a kind blogger friend and I really appreciate it. *Smiles*

Your Thanksgiving tables are both breathtaking. LOVE your beautiful and elegant blue dishes and the way you tied your tablecloth. Very pretty! You are set!

I hope to be back soon. I just needed a much needed rest...;)

~Blessings, ~Melissa :)

nannykim/spindlecottage said...

Wow; great post. Love the contrast of the white with the wood and the soft natural browns!

The kids table is adorable.

I am traveling for Thanksgiving and going to celebrate it with my older (29 year old) son. Just hubby and me and older son--so not yet sure what we might come up with for a tablescape--Ha!

Ps. THANKS for giving the idea of the snowflake as a stensil for the powdered sugar on a cake!!

Kim @ Cheap Chic Home said...

Soooo pretty, Lisa! I like the tied ribbon at the end of the burlap, it makes it look finished and dresses it up!

Jill said...

How very lovely!

Unknown said...

Lisa you're sooooo talented!! It really looks amazing! Of course, I love the burlap with the white dishes, and that's something you can carry into Christmas with a little tweaking of your accent decorations! The kid's table is adorable too :)

:) T

Mary Bergfeld said...

What a lovely holiday table you've set! I stopped by just to say hello, but spent some tome here. I love your blog.

Patricia @ ButterYum said...

I adore your thanksgiving tables! The white pumpkins are stunning and really drive home this elegant tablescape. The kids table is adorable. Love the centerpiece on both tables.

Thanks for visiting my blog and leaving such a lovely comment!

:)
ButterYum
ps - now back to your blog... lots of neat things to see!

Jamie said...

You are seriously so crafty and talented! I envy you! But you seriously inspire me everyday that I read your fabulous blog! Way to go!!!

SavoringTime in the Kitchen said...

Your table is beautiful and the menu sounds delicious! Such cute boys and adorable kid's table too.

Linda@Coastal Charm said...

Looks outstanding...love your burlap table runner!!! I'm sad that I'm not going to have a Thanksgiving dinner at my house this year...will be out of town...watching my fav college football team play on BLACK FRIDAY...we never play on this day...thanks CBS!!!

Blessings,
Linda

Abby Killam said...

boooo! you make my last comment look super redneck and hicked out! hahaha
Just kidding... you rock... as always. sheesh

Reid said...

LOVE it!!!! So elegant and simple!

Dorey said...

I love it! I love the color scheme, it is very calming AND elegant! The kid table with the little mayflower is so charming too! What time is dinner? =) TTYL

Anita@Theycallmejammi said...

I love your tables....how beautiful they both are. Thanks so much for visiting me...I checked out your Holiday folder and love the idea...I keep my past Christmas lists and meal planners as well....this would be a great way to consolidate them all. Happy Thanksgiving

BonBon Rose Girls Kristin said...

Wow. What a gorgeous tablescape. And that kids' table. Soooooooo cute. You never disappoint!

Michelle @ Delicate Construction said...

Looks wonderful!!!! I love how it all came out!

Roeshel said...

Oh wow. It's stunning. Even the kid's table. You are so talented. I love each detail. Your guests are going to feel so special. Great job!

Now I wish I was cooking for Thanksgiving so I could copy your gorgeous table. Thank you so much for sharing your inspiration in the DIY holiday party.

Roeshel

Jane said...

Lisa,
Check out the neat snack at http://homehavenministry.blogspot.com
Each ingredient was given a "meaning" regarding thankfulness. Your kids might like it...

Smiles,
Jane (artfully graced)

ps I sent an email explaining the tablescape classes.

Unknown said...

So beautiful! If I had a formal dining room, I would love to do something like this! It's enough I have my tiny little homemade fall themed center piece on my little kitchen table. Gorgeous dahling! Returning your visit from the Brew!
If you want to check out my regular blog... it's http://collinscircus.blogspot.org.
Come on by and visit! :) You commented... I'll follow!

Karen at Nittany Inspirations said...

You have a lovely table. I like the placemats on the children's table they are so cute. I like how you have the runner puddling on the floor. It's so elegant. If I have more than 4 people at the table, I don't have enough room for a centerpiece because we eat family style.

{Bellamere Cottage} said...

Hi Lisa!

Totally charming...I love it. I'm thinking I'd better zip on over to the fabric store and pick myself up some nice burlap. What a clever idea.... We always have too much food on our small table for a centerpiece so it's always moved before we eat. ...maybe just the candles can stay!

I hope your Thanksgiving is wonderful....and tasty too!

Warm blessings,
Spencer

Unknown said...

And then, I reviewed you! Come and see at http://blogbrewreview.blogspot.com/:)

b. said...

Just beautiful, Lisa! You always do an amazing job... at everything! And, those cards are adorable! Such a special touch! xo.

Kathleen Grace said...

Gorgeous tables! I love he serenity of the all white adults table. The childrens table is beautiful and fun, I can't believe how cute and easy the mayflower basket is!

cindy said...

Just love all the touches you put to the tables! What a great way to create special memories for your guests.

Karen The Graphics Fairy said...

This is amazing!!! Really the most beautiful Thanksgiving tablescape that I have seen. I love the natural tones, and the kids table is just so cute. You've really thought of every detail. Gorgeous!!!

Rue said...

Holy smokes! It's gorgeous!! If we were having Thanksgiving here I would completely copy you to that very last detail :)

rue

Faded Plains said...

Your table looks gorgeous...love the simple look of it...and your kids table looks adorable with the Mayflower ship basket...too cute!

Lisa @ Fern Creek Cottage said...

Wow Lisa, the table looks great!!!! I love all of the natural elements. It is so lovely and serene.

Michelle said...

I love your table, I'm excited about doing a nice table this year love your place cards.

Krista@RustikChic said...

So pretty! Thanks for the inspiration :)

Julia @ Hooked on Houses said...

What a beautiful table for Thanksgiving! Really love the "blessings" tags you put at each place. And the kids' table is so cute! :-)

Christi said...

beautiful table!

Its So Very Cheri said...

Hey girl--I love it all--so pretty. I hope you will post to my party too.

Cheri

Debra from Bungalow said...

Thanks so much for joining Sharing Thanksgiving. You have SO many wonderful creative ideas! I love the natural elements and how you tied the burlap table runner.
The kids table is awesome, love that boat! Really great ideas!

Kim -today's creative blog said...

STUNNING!!! Love it!

Lynn said...

Wow, you are prepared, girl! Your tables are beautiful. I love the idea of posting a menu, too :)

Anonymous said...

I'm so impressed with both of the tablescapes and I love the way that you tied the runner with the ribbon! Love it!

pk @ Room Remix

Room to Inspire said...

Looks great, I really love the white pumpkins - I think these will be making an appearance on my table this year. And the ribbon on the runner is perfect!

Chelsea

Leanne said...

ooooh, I love your Thanksgiving table. So pretty! Our Thanksgiving is going to be a little off this year. We're having it the Saturday after. One of our sons is graduating from Basic Training the Wednesday before and there's no way we can get home in time. We're just going to have to pretend it's Thanksgiving on Saturday. It will be great to be able to spend it with our one son though.Have a great day.

Kim @ Starshine Chic said...

I love both tablescapes. But I really adore the Mayflower. Too dang cute!!!

Nobody Puts Mama In A Corner! said...

You gotta have a kids table!!!! My favorite! I still like to sit at the kids table!!! Then you can sneak off and get to the desserts first!!! I am no dummy!
Mama Holli

Becky @ Our Sweet Peas said...

This is gorgeous. You did an awesome job and now I wish I were hosting Thanksgiving 2009 at my house :)

Lovely, simply lovely!

Jess @ Frugal with a Flourish said...

Love the ribbon on the sides of the runner and the Mayflower boat! How cute! It looks wonderful! Congrats!

Jennifer {Studio JRU} said...

I think it is great that you took the time to make your tables extra special for your family. They look beautiful!!

AnNicole@Our Suburban Cottage said...

Great job! I love how natural and neutral it is. It's so pretty! And the Mayflower is fab. That is going to be so much fun for the kids.

Sweet Cottage Dreams said...

Everything is so beautiful!! You are an inspiration and soooo organized!

Have a lovely day,
becky
xo

Unknown said...

Hi,
I followed your link from Celebrations at home. I'm loving your set up and all of the details! The kids table is adorable!

Beth@The Stories of A to Z said...

Perfection my dear! Love it all! You're getting added to my sidebar :).

Chris @ Celebrations At Home said...

Thanks for the link! I love your table! It's so modern and clean! The kid's table centerpiece is fabulous! : )

Jen @ tatertotsandjello.com said...

DARLING! I love it all. And the burlap with that color ribbon is beautiful! What fun. I also loved your kids table with the little boats. Adorable!

XOXO
Jen

Heidi said...

everything looks so lovely! So fresh and festive, simply beautiful!

Sherry @ Lamp Unto My Feet said...

Oh, wow! It looks georgeous! :D Definitely inviting!

Leigh Ann said...

Both tables are fabulous! What a creative person you are!
Blessings~
Leigh Ann

Autumn said...

I love how it turned out! The tablescape is lovely, and the boys' table is so darn cute!

Anonymous said...

omg this looks so great!!! All your decorations are great!

Roeshel said...

It's me again - just wanting to say hello and thanks for your votes. :)

I've also shared your Thanksgiving tables with some others who were looking for inspiration.

You're awesome! ;)

Roeshel

Tammy @ tinselshop.com said...

Everything looks amazing. I love the simplicity of it all, perfect for a day when we are reflecting on what's really important. I too saw the Martha Stewart wheat arrangement, love your version!

Best wishes,
Tammy

honeysuckle said...

Very restful and classic yet rustic table for Thanksgiving. Good job!

Heidi Boos said...

Saw you on Tip Junkie...woo hoo!! Way to go, Lisa! ;)

DesignTies said...

Both tables look wonderful :-) And the centerpieces for each are perfect :-) I think it's great that you went with a nature-inspired tablescape for your main table.

Hope there aren't too many gravy & cranberry mishaps on the big day!!

Kelly

Sarah said...

Lisa, your comments at the end say it all, and you certainly have provided a beautiful setting for memories to abound. Your main table is full of beauty with natural elegance. I like the burlap runner and the wheat centerpiece. The twine on the candles is an added touch of texture that pulls things together. Great idea! The children's table is so cute and I know your precious little boys will grow up with special memories of sitting Thanksgivings in your home. They are so cute. Loved seeing their photo at the end. Blessings to you and your family. ~ Sarah

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

YOur colors are tranquil and just stunning! I love the detail. The white elements make this look so stylish and updated. A fresh look for a Thanksgiving table!
Any little one a the kids table will be one happy little pilgrim!
Yvonne

Maryann @ Domestically-Speaking said...

Ok ~ I want to come eat at your house. That is stunning. I think you've captured my idea of thanksgiving perfectly. Cozy, a little rustic with natural elements... beautiful!

Jeanette said...

How lovely! The burlap being tied just makes it so elegant. That was a great idea. It is so fresh and modern yet homey and inviting. And the kids table is so sweet. You are so talented.

Phyllis @Around the House said...

Lisa, love the blessings idea and love the menu printing idea, your table looks wonderful and inviting, I could be sitting right there, thanks for sharing

Let it Shine said...

Looks fantastic! Love the framed menu!

black eyed susans kitchen said...

It is all very lovely.
Susan

susan said...

Simple elegance! Love the blessing tags and kids' table especially!

Thrifty Decor Chick said...

This is LOVELY!! Makes me wish my fall table just a bit. :) Love every detail.

bj said...

This turned out so pretty. I love your burlap runner. I am thinking of making a tablecloth out of burlap...not sure if I will have time or not,tho.
You did a great job...

Clueless_Mama said...

How do you make the time to do all the stuff you do? You are so better than Martha Stewart!! I LOVE everything you do..

Jessica Loukota Leimback said...

Gorgeous Lisa! Great ideas!

B said...

Wow, everything looks amazing! Such a great table. Enjoy your holiday!

Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality said...

Lisa, I love it all!! What a beautiful job you did with your tables. Happy Thanksgiving to you, thanks for telling me to come over & visit. Glad I did!

food with style said...

both tables are fab!

my home sanctuary said...

Oh Lisa I have to say if we were to vote I would vote you! I loved the table then when I say the kids table. Oh more word. What time is dinner? I loved the thankful list I have to copy and I love how you did the menu. Thanks for the inspiration.
I enjoyed my visit today. I'll have to come back and see what else your up to.

Anonymous said...

Your table is so lovely and I really like the burlap runner! The kid's table is just precious! Happy Thanksgiving.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

Christi @ A Southern Life said...

Beautiful and the kids table is just so much fun. Love the little ships. Happy Thanksgiving!

Christi @ A Southern Life

Mid-Atlantic Martha said...

So pretty - and I love the children's table -- I'll have to remember that when my grands get old enough.

Kirsty said...

Wow, wow, wow. Not only am I blown away by the gorgeousness of it all. But that it is DONE. With a week to spare. Holy smokes, will you loan me some of your anti-procrastination please?

You did an amazing job and I love the sentiment behind it all. Very special. Your family is blessed to have a mom so committed to making their home a haven.

Sam said...

I LOVE the burlap and the ribbon. What a wonderful idea for a table runner. Perfect idea for the Thanksgiving holiday. I would not be able to put it out this early though....our kitties would have a ball with that and the rest would end up on the floor! LOL

Lisa said...

Wow that is so creative! I'm not sure which table I would want to sit at, the kids or the adults, they are both so neat! You did a wonderful job, thanks for sharing!!!

Our Porch in Hillsborough said...

The tables are beautiful - I especially love the Mayflower and the burlap runner! Isn't it fun to have your tables ready a few days early? Then you can enjoy them before the craziness begins! Have a great Thanksgiving!
Leah

Jennifer said...

Wow-- it looks amazing. I love how you added ribbon to the ends of the table runner. Super-clever. =)

sweetjeanette said...

oooh! I love it. I love the "Blessings" napkin ring!!! (not to self: REMEMBER THAT!!!). and I think I'd ask to sit at the "kids table" !!!! Thank you for sharing!
Don't know how I found you, but so glad I did!

sweetjeanette.blogspot.com

PS: Im hosting a Christmas wallhanging and totebag give away until 11/27. Come by and check it out: http://sweetjeanette.blogspot.com/2009/11/new-give-away-in-celebration-of-100.html

Simply Mel {Reverie} said...

Aboslutely gorgeous table, and I love that the kiddos were not left out! Thanks for stopping by my blog...I'll be sure to follow your delightful DIY projects from now on...

Kate Riley said...

How lovely ! It is all so wonderful. Thanks for sharing !

Kate

Kim @ NewlyWoodwards said...

This is so awesome. Thanks for sharing it. I love the burlap runner and how you tied it at the end. I'm dying over the placecards (ADORABLE) and I'm a sucker for wheat arrangements. Superb.

Thanks for joining the Dare to DIY party this week. Come back soon.

Abbey @ Practically Perfect said...

Thanks for visiting my blog! I LOVE your tables...can I sit with the kids? That ship is the cutest and I love ships!

Gia said...

What a beautiful table! Love all the white pumpkins!

Carry Grace said...

What a great table runner!

Erin @ Domestic Adventure said...

I love, love, love how you tied the table runner, and the natural elements are great. Oh, and the kids table...please, can I sit there?

Jenny @ Anything Pretty said...

The kids table is so cute! I am also loving all the white pumpkins and I think you nailed your goal of a calming/natural tablescape.

carrie @ brick city love said...

I love the aqua ribbon you used to tie the runner off with. I also really enjoy that your bowls are footed. {It's the random little things.}

Jen @ homeinthecountry said...

Love the white pumpkins and burlap - and the thankful notes are adorable!

Remodelaholic said...

LIsa, Thanks for your comments on my blog. IT actually was a funny coincidence because last night while surfing through blogs I saw your adorable kids table. I even saved the image with your blog address so that I could make those great little turkey place settings and use it for next years inspirtaion! Great job!

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Lisa, while I know I commented on this before, I couldn't let the day go by without wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving! I hope your day was wonderful.

AND I hope that no one got anythibng on that fab runner! ;-)

Happy Tablescape Thursday and Turkey Day, too...

XO,

Sheila :-)

laterg8r said...

you set a beautiful table :D

love the turkey placemats for the boys :D

Diann @ The Thrifty Groove said...

Hi Lisa!

Your table looks very inviting! but, I have to confess, I love the kids table. so cute!

Have a great day!

Anonymous said...

It's lovely. I love rustic!

Anonymous said...

It's lovely. I love rustic!

Roeshel said...

Hi Lisa - I'm so glad you linked up. You know I love this! :) Thank you for joining the DIY Fall Festival. I've included it in this week's highlights.

Have a great weekend!
Roeshel

Honey at 2805 said...

Both table are so nice! Thanks for sharing you ideas. You're so organized!!