Turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie – when it comes to the holiday menu, tradition reigns supreme. Not so for Thanksgiving tablescapes. According to interior designer and host extraordinaire Javier Burkle, a fabulous table setting instantly ups the style quotient and makes the day extra festive. “It makes guests feel welcome in your home.”
As the name of his eponymous company – Burkle Creative – implies, creativity and imagination are key. “I like to mix things up – patterns, plates, even formal and everyday ware. It’s definitely more interesting than matchy-matchy.”
He takes a similar approach with floral. “You want fresh flowers, always. But they don’t need to be Thanksgiving colors. The most important thing is to pick a color scheme.”
You can spend a lot — or a little. “Branches from your backyard can look amazing. So can arrangements with just greenery,” Burkle said.
Candles are another requisite – even in the daytime.
“They add ambience; they make your china glow. And everyone looks better in candlelight,” he said.
So, what’s splurge-worthy? “Flatware. My favorite is from Ralph Lauren. It’s timeless and classic, but you can still put in the dishwasher,” said Burkle.
We had to ask: What’s in store for your holiday guests?
“I’m going with a mushroom theme for my annual Friendsgiving table — browns, beiges, and neutrals.” He’ll choose a different décor for his family celebration. “I’m thinking bright colors. It will be fun for the kids.”
And where to sit? “Place cards let you decide who sits next to who. Hosts should know, so there’s no drama. Plus, you make sure there’s great conversation.”
Bret McKinney of Backstory has a different take. “I’m really into place settings and services inspired by HBO’s return of The Gilded Edge — opulent silver, ornate chargers, and silk tablecloth and napkins.”
Look no further than Christofle’s ultra-luxe collection of holiday classics with a modern twist. “Thanksgiving dinner is the most important part of the day, so your holiday favorites should be served in the most beautiful way,” said McKinney.
Read on for more tips on setting a memorable table.
Always use cloth napkins. “It’s a small detail guest will appreciate,” said Burkle.
Opt for unexpected colors. Most Thanksgiving foods (save for the cranberry sauce and sweet potatoes) are beige, so giving them a little color is always a welcomed move.
Think ahead about drinkware. Thanksgiving is as much about the beverages as it is about the food. Bring in chic accents, like dramatic gold wine glasses or opt for a colorful mix.
Feature a signature drink. “Palomas are our house drink. In the fall, we use Mescal to create a smokier feel,” said Burkle.
Create a Thanksgiving playlist. Among our picks for the ultimate soundtrack: “Sweet Potato Pie,” (the Ray Charles and James Taylor version); “Thank You,” by Dido; “Thankful,” by Kelly Clarkson; “Ode to My Family,” by The Cranberries; and, of course, the Carrie Underwood classic, “Stretchy Pants.”
