When I am reading home magazines or watching food shows, I often see instructions for making a lovely Thanksgiving centerpiece.  I have to admit, I don’t really see the purpose. 

In my experience, the table is already very full because there are extra people gathered around it and there is more food on the table.  I’m never quite sure how you make room for a centerpiece or why you’d bother with everything else you have to do.

Instead of adding a centerpiece, take the time to put out the best china you have (even if it means you have to dig it out of the cabinet and wash it).  Use the nice silverware, the good glasses, and the cloth napkins. 

You can add color with the table cloth.  For example, use a white or other solid color as the base cloth and layer a contrasting color runner over it.  You can do the same thing with a beautiful tablecloth that is too small for the current table or another tablecloth you already have.  Fold it into a square and put it across the center of the table like a diamond.  You can also use cloth napkins as accents underneath the bowls and platters.  They add color and depth without taking up space.  Add a few candles and your table will be lovely — and the bowl of stuffing will fit on the table!

If someone brings you a centerpiece, consider using a counter or a sideboard as a place for a dessert display and/or the wine.  You can place the centerpiece there to make that space look festive as well.

Whenever possible, I like to dress the table using color and texture rather than things.  It’s beautiful and reusable which is a nice money saver.  If you don’t have cloth napkins and a nice tablecloth or runner, put them on your Christmas list.  It’s a great gift to give and get.  I’ll even give some ideas of where to buy these things next week when I start my shopping advice!