Thanksgiving Table Design on a Dime

Guest post with Shell Richardson, owner of Elegant Connexions in downtown Concord, N.C.

We all know it can be a challenge to creatively decorate the dining table for Thanksgiving each year. Shell Richardson is the owner of Elegant Connexions, an event space in downtown Concord, N.C., for parties, weddings, corporate events, small business meetings and more, which has been featured on NBC Charlotte’s “Charlotte Today” and FOX 46 Charlotte.

She shares with us five tips for expertly decorating the dining table on a budget just in time for your Thanksgiving feast.

Tip 1: Plan ahead. This will allow you time to assess what you may be missing or if there are any items you want to switch out. But even when you’re short on time, there are mainstays that you can always count on. Goodwill always has what I need in regards to dining table merchandise, and you can certainly make a quick trip to your favorite discount store or dollar store.

Tip 2: Think color. When we think of Thanksgiving, we typically envision autumn colors such as red, orange and brown. Sprinkling in just the right amount of each color always adds the perfect festive pop!

Tip 3: Short on funds? Think Goodwill! Tableware and stemware are great finds at Goodwill, sometimes even as low as $.50. Decorative paper napkins may be used in the place of cloth napkins. However, I have found beautiful cloth napkins and tablecloths for a steal at Goodwill as well.

Tip 4: Don’t forget the candles! Candles are an inexpensive way to add warmth. You can find them for as low as $1.00 and in many different colors, shapes, sizes and scents.

Tip 5: Set the table on Thanksgiving Eve. I recommend decorating your dining table the night before Thanksgiving, so that it’s already complete when it comes time to bring the food to the table. This eliminates the stress of waiting to set the table on the day-of, when you and your loved ones will be busy with cooking and company!