Although the holiday season may look a little different this year, we’re looking forward to spending quality time with those closest to us. Whether you’re sharing the table with one other person or having a few relatives over, you can make it the most special Thanksgiving yet with a DIY element that encourages conversation and makes your space just a little bit brighter. Below are four DIY ideas that only take a few minutes but will make memories that last a lifetime. Check them out:
Create A Thankful Tree
In a previous post, we touched on one of our favorite new traditions to start with the family: creating a thankful tree! Cut leaf place cards out of an autumnal color that matches your home décor (make this step super easy by finding a simple leaf stencil online!). Then have your guests write what they are thankful for on them. Here are some of the reasons the Lenox family is giving thanks this year: “My family’s health”, “Laughter around the table” and “My son’s first Thanksgiving”. Share your blessings around the table and hang the place cards on branches in a vase to make a sentimental centerpiece for years to come.
Get Creative With Napkin Details
Whether you’re setting the table with new pieces or the same dinnerware you’ve been using for years, it’s fun to spice up how you top off your plate settings. We encourage you to get creative with napkin details: add a fun feather that ties in vibrant colors, keep it simple with a twig and twine or add a sprig of wheat for a soft touch. Elements from nature are great accent pieces to your already stunning tablescape. Use your imagination to make it truly special and unique!
Strike Up A Conversation
Get your guests mingling with these custom conversation starters. Buy blank place cards and put each guest’s name on the outside. On the inside, add a question that leads to a compelling story each guest can tell: “If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?” or “What’s the last book that you couldn’t put down?” and “If you could have dinner with one fictional character, who would it be?” To keep the conversation flowing, pick one random (or the most interesting!) person to answer their question first. Once they’re done, they can choose who answers next. Pepper in questions throughout the course of the meal and let the conversation begin!
Make Your Gourds Glow
Here’s a crafty décor trick that takes only a minute to do! Pick up a few round gourds to spread out around your table. Take a small serrated knife and carefully cut a circle around the center of each gourd to create your opening. Clean out the center so it’s completely empty. Next, put a tiny tealight at the center of your gourd. Dim the lights and let the candle glow to create a warm ambiance in your home before dinner.
Do you have other DIY tricks and tips that you’re trying out this year? We want to see them! Tag us @Lenox on Facebook and Instagram. If you need help setting up, check out our Setting The Table blog post and learn how to create a formal or casual setup for your guests.
