For many, Thanksgiving is the favorite holiday. Maybe this is because we are drawn close to home, family, friends, and traditions. Sharing a meal with someone has always been an ultimate expression of appreciation. It says, thank you, for giving me your time and attention.
Hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be challenging and overwhelming, especially for the novice, but it doesn't have to be. Remember that this is an intimate gathering of those closest to you, so my number one tip is to share the duties: prep work, cooking, and clean up. If the dinner is at your home, don't be afraid to delegate. Your guests want to help-it makes them feel useful. Just preparing the house for guests is a big job.
I have some ideas for creating a cozy and memorable scene-Jackie Oh style. It's all about the details! The people, food, and conversation will speak for themselves. So, why not concentrate on your table? It's a special day, so make the setting extra special. This is an event when you should break out the good china, and if you don't really have any, that's okay too-you can dress up your everyday dinnerware. How? I like to use chargers. A charger is an extra large plate that you set your other plates upon to create a layered look. (Usually, it is not for food). These are readily available at discount or specialty stores. In fact, my friends and I took a trip to The Christmas Tree Shop this past weekend, and I'm not kidding you, I picked up some chargers for $1.29 each! (Try to get neutral ones like gold, silver, rattan, etc., to get the most bang for your buck). I use two or three layers. You can use salad or luncheon plates for the top layer. The beauty is they do not all have to match, so this is a fun way to create a theme. You can make it as fancy or simple as you like.
Another easy and inexpensive way to dress up the table is by using candles. Of course, you can use any you want, but to me, white votives in clear holders are the epitome of simple elegance…and the more the better. One suggestion: I recommend unscented candles on the table. You do not want the candle aromas to detract from those of your food.
A centerpiece is a must-have. It has been a long tradition to use flowers. But I even surprised myself when I realized I had not used them on my own Thanksgiving table. Instead, I used a pretty ceramic serving bowl donned with a turkey (“Another trinket headed for a future garage sale!” according to The Husband!). Gourds, fruit, or a cornucopia are also possibilities. This is such a personal holiday, so try to get creative and come up with your own centerpiece. Oh, and don't forget the kiddies-have them make a centerpiece and placemats for their table.
Finally, pay some extra attention to table linens: a tablecloth and/or runner, placemats, and napkins. I have included a diagram on how to set a formal or casual table. Also, you may want to up the extraordinary factor by trying your hand at napkin folding. Have you ever noticed how some restaurants make this a real art form? You can do it-it's not that difficult. You may have to practice a few times, but it's worth it. In true Jackie Oh style (class with little cash), it's an inexpensive way to impress your guests…and yourself.
Friends, I want to truly wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving filled with love and fun.
I'm so grateful that you have given me a few minutes out of your day to read this column. I hope your day is all that you hope for. And, remember: you are alive; therefore, every day is an event. Have a delicious holiday!
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