I like to set a beautiful table when I entertain. Corny as it may sound, I see my table as a lovely accessory that adorns my meal. The table & the food compliment one another.

I know many of you may panic at the thought of having to set a table for Thanksgiving, or any occasion this Holiday season. Table settings don’t have to be elaborate or expensive. You simply build them up, one item at a time, step back after each layer & look to see where you need more. Like accessories to an outfit, your table setting should compliment your menu, not overwhelm it! If you turkey gets lost in the setting, you have done too much.

Also, guests must be able to talk to one another across the table. If you have stacked your centerpiece so high that no one can see across it, again, you have done too much. Remember, bit by bit.

Still confused? Country Living to the rescue! They have put together 23 elegant & EASY table settings for you. I LOVE the rustic look to the setting in the photo above. Use these ideas to create your table or as a starting point for a creation of your own.

And when you are done, remember Coco Chanel’s advice concerning accessories, “Remove the last piece you put on!” Even Coco knew, we always go one step too far!

Table Settings