A festive thanksgiving table with 4 place settings.

Thanksgiving is that special time of the year when many of us look forward to gathering with loved ones, sharing delicious food, and expressing gratitude. In addition to all the wonderful dishes we eat, a beautifully set table can enhance the overall experience and create a festive atmosphere. Here are a few tips from Ocean State Job Lot on how to set the table and get your home filled with holiday cheer for a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner:

Essential Elements

Tablecloth: Choose a tablecloth that complements your Thanksgiving theme. Opt for a classic white for a timeless look, or a fall-inspired color like orange or brown for a more festive vibe.

Placemats: Placemats can add a layer of protection and style to your table. Consider using fabric placemats with Thanksgiving-themed patterns or natural materials like jute or cork.

Flatware: Lay out the flatware in the correct order: fork on the left, knife on the right, and spoon to the right of the knife.

Dinnerware: Use your best china or a set of sturdy, matching dinnerware for an elegant look. For a more casual and eclectic look, mix and match pieces from different sets. Ocean State Job Lot is the best place for savings and great looks.

Glasses: Provide glasses for water and wine. For a festive touch, consider using wine glasses with etched designs or stemless glasses for a modern look.

Napkins: Fold napkins in a stylish manner and place them on the left side of the plate or in a napkin ring.Your guests can then easily use them in their lap when they eat.

A variety of fall-themed placements available from Ocean State Job Lot.
A variety of fall-themed placements available from Ocean State Job Lot.
An illustration of a table setting on a red tablecloth.

Setting the Table

  1. Start with the tablecloth: Lay the tablecloth on the table, ensuring it hangs evenly on all sides. This will begin that Thanksgiving table setting that’s easy on the eyes.
  2. Place the placemats: Place a placemat at each seat, leaving enough room for the dinnerware and flatware. Allow enough room so that each guest isn’t too crowded when they eat.
  3. Set the dinnerware: Place the dinner plate in the center of each placemat.
  4. Add the flatware: Place the salad fork to the left of the dinner plate, followed by the dinner fork to the salad fork’s right. On the right side of the plate, place the dinner knife with the blade facing inward, followed by the soup spoon to the knife’s right.
  5. Place the glasses: Place a water glass to the right of the dinner knife. If serving wine, place the wine glass to the right of the water glass.
  6. Add the napkins: Place the napkins to the left of the salad fork, or in a napkin ring and placed on top of the plate.
  7. Set the serving dishes: Arrange the serving dishes on the table, ensuring there is enough space for guests to serve themselves.
A close-up of a thanksgiving table setting with floral decor, mini pumpkins, and a place card.

Additional Tips

Disposable Aluminum Pans: If you are using a buffet style dinner, let your guests select their dinner choices from our variety of disposable aluminum pans.

Centerpiece: Create a festive centerpiece using seasonal flowers, fruits, or candles. A simple arrangement of pumpkins and autumn leaves can add a touch of nature to your table.

Decorations: Decorate your table with Thanksgiving-themed decorations, such as small pumpkins, cornucopias, or fall foliage.

Place cards: If you have a large number of guests, consider using place cards to assign seats. This will help to avoid confusion and ensure everyone has a place to sit. It will also keep away the awkwardness of your family and friends trying to figure out who’s sitting next to who.

Lighting: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere by using soft lighting. Consider using candles or string lights to add a touch of ambiance but don’t make the room too dark to make things confusing for your guests.

By following these tips, you can create a beautifully set table that will impress your guests and make your Thanksgiving dinner even more memorable. For more ideas, don’t forget to visit your local Ocean State Job Lot. Happy Thanksgiving!