What could be more beautiful than a holiday centerpiece on a well dressed table! Did you just say the food, of course? Okay, I’ll give you that one.
But I’m here to inspire you with gorgeous centerpieces that fit on a small dining table. For those of you who will be enjoying a more intimate Thanksgiving meal of two to four people, you will more likely do so on a small table. I love such dining where the food is on a sideboard, a server, an island or even a kitchen counter. These are great areas for displaying larger centerpieces surrounded by fabulous dishes for the different courses. For the small table, many of the larger centerpieces can be created and scaled to fit your table. Or you can opt for smaller centerpieces such as these below.
chic coles blogspotSego FloralOcean Front Shack blog, $5 Centerpiece (see blog for DIY info)The Fancy ShackPinterestLushome.comPinterestPinterestPiinterest
From Better Homes And Garden, comes an excellent DIY on how to create this gorgeous Succulent Pumpkin Centerpiece. It makes a fabulous centerpiece. Just be sure to purchase a pumpkin scaled for the size of your small table. One other caution, be careful that it doesn’t upstage your outstanding Thanksgiving menu!
From my small table to yours,
Wishing You A Very Happy Thanksgiving!!
(P.S. My inspired centerpiece turned out to look more like a centerpiece for Christmas! Well, sometimes that’s what happens when walking through the neighborhood and seeing a beautiful weeping holly, called Ilex verticillata Winterberry, show casing its berries! I assure you, by Thanksgiving day I’ll probably replace it with a bouquet of yellow and orange.)
The daughter of my most dearest friend has a Thanksgiving tradition: Family members and guests each write on a tablecloth for what they are thankful. They then sign their names and date it. Each year, while diner preparations are being made and folks wander in and out of the kitchen, previous notes are reread. New thankful notes are written.
Children and adults join in on this festive tradition. Of course there is always someone who loves to read the notes out loud–or at least the funniest or tearfully happy giving of thanks. Dinner is served in the formal dining room where the chatter of being thankful continues.
Her Thanksgiving tablecloth, always spread on a kitchen table, is made of cotton and linen and the marker used is waterproof, made for writing on cloth. After the holiday, this tablecloth heirloom is gently washed, pressed and folded, and stored for the next year–and the next generation.
Persia Lou blog for her DIY Thanksgiving tablecloth
Notes: The Thanksgiving tablecloth is sometimes called the gratitude tablecloth. You can use a canvas drop cloth to which you or children can also add paintings. See my post on Inspirations, Tips And Resources For Floor Length Tablecloths. The project can be done with very neat handwriting or stenciled by one person. But I think the best and most personal are those written by individuals.
Each year, millions of people across the United States will make the annual pilgrimage to gather with family and friends; share a meal; share stories and aspirations; share their love and appreciation for one another. There are lot’s of other traditions shared on Thanksgiving, such as working at a food bank or church to feed those less fortunate and the homeless.
Do you have a family tradition? Oh please, do share!
Fresh flowers on the dining table, a kitchen island, a buffet, a night stand–you name it–is always cheerfully welcoming. If you don’t have a flower garden, it’s still very easy to pick up a lovely bouquet at a good supermarket. There are times, however, when you want that bouquet to have a little more pizzazz. I had often relied on florist for such a display. But frankly, that option has lost its appeal. Too often the results look cookie cutter. So I’ve decided to take on the art of fresh flower arrangement. You can too!
Here’s how I started. But beware, you’ll find some flaws and I’ll point them out to you:
If you’re wondering about the table, take a deep breath. I moved everything over to the kitchen counter!!
Select a beautiful container. You may think this is a given but those nondescript, mass produced containers bought at floral shops boring. Check your shelves and just look around the house for a classy or fun container. I’m getting ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, so I’ve decided on a gorgeous glass bowl from Mikasa.
Gather the tools you’ll need. Hand held rose shear; green or white foam for fresh flowers; wire and tape. I had to include a glass ‘liner’ bowl because I don’t want to ruin my Mikasa bowl with water deposit.
Optional: I’m adding gold glass beads to put between the inner and outer bowls. I had some insane idea for the gold to sparkle through the Mikasa bowl when light hits it.
Purchase flowers and greens that fit your design color idea and scheme. I cheated. My first bouquet I bought at Costco. You’ll see the boo boo I made with that bunch later. It nagged at my artistic sensibility, so I bought another bouquet from Harris Teeter. As I said earlier, many good grocery stores will carry fresh flower bouquets. You can also go to a florist. Note you will probably need to add extra greens such as ferns or filler flowers, such as baby’s breath or heathers.
Tip: “Food” for the bouquets will come with your purchase. Often you can even get extra packets. Some mixes will cloud the water which you will see when using a glass vase. In these cases, instead, just add a little 7-UP or Sprite soft drink.
After gathering everything on my kitchen counter, I took a deep breath and jumped into the arrangement–and without more detailed instructions! Here’s my boo boo:
It came no where near the fabulous vision that was floating in my head! It was too tall, too busy–and missing something. And so the reason for my trip to Harris-Teeter and a chat with the florist on duty. “Add you greens first,” she said, with lots of responses that ended with “that depends” and “I would have to see your bowl.” All this was preferenced with “Google fresh flower arranging.” What a novel idea! Get instructions before proceeding.
I confess, I sometimes get great ideas and jump right into the project. After making mistakes or find the cart is in front of the horse, so to say, I then get instructions. If you suffer from this disease too, console yourself with “experimentation” is the best teacher!
Here’s a good video on fresh flower arrangement. My take away from it is to 1) add your greens FIRST; 2) work in odd numbers, generally three; using wire and tape is very, very handy.
And here’s my novice masterpiece fresh flower arrangement!
Top view of annsliee novice floral arrangement. Cocoa and pussy willow pillow by annsliee.annsliee novice floral arrangement side view with glass bowl
Okay, your turn. I know there is lot of room for improvement. I see at least two. Can you point out more? If there is a professional florist who was curious enough to read this post, thank you. But PLEASE be gentle and DO share your secrets to creating a dramatic fresh flower arrangement.
P.S. Just picked up my news flyer from Trader Joe’s is offering 8-stem rose bouquet for $4.99. Don’t stop there, other great supermarkets may also be offer good deals too. Novice to novice — go for it!
Grab a coffee or tea and get inspired to create your own Happy Halloween table centerpiece.
I’ll start with what’s on my dining nook table. This year, I opted for a simple centerpiece to greet the oncoming fall days and a few Halloween accessories for the ‘faint of heart’–namely, myself!
Look closely at this wide-mouth hurricane lamp filled ornamental gourds, mini orange pumpkins and chartreuse reindeer moss. You’ll see a pair of blood shot eye balls peeking back at you. Look again (next photo) and you’ll see these eye lit up. The colors change from blue to green to red. Three blind mice guided by tea candles scurry around the lamp.
FOR A CLASSY HALLOWEEN DINING:
One of my favorite for a classy and sparkling centerpiece is this black pumpkin accented with glass jewels. Found it on Calligraphy by Jennifer.net. Do check her out for the many pumpkin ideas she has listed.
A gorgeous floral arrangement available at Olive and Cocoa.comFabulous centerpiece and table scape idea from Home is Where the boat is.net
From one of my most favorite blog sites for tablescapes, Between Naps On The Porch.com, comes this lovely centerpiece of poison portions.
CREEPY AND SCARY TABLE CENTERPIECES
BHG via PinterestThis horror filled hurricane lamp found on Dancing Barefoot In Sand & Snow blogspot.com
This green Frankenstein centerpiece is definitely on my favorites list! Discovered it on Cheryl Style.com. You can learn how to make it and the mummy (next photo) on her site.
By far these green skeleton heads served under the dome of a glass cake stand will bring lots of nervous screams from your guests!
Interior Original.com
I’ll be enjoying my Halloween with a, would-you-believe, pajama party for ladies over 60 years of age! The entry is ready to greet them with a planter filled with flashing eyes nestled in green moss. We opted for a romantic comedy movie on witches, lots of wine and great finger food.
So, to you I wish a Very Ghoulish Happy Halloween–scary or not, stay safe!
Planning a New Year’s Eve dinner party? Great! Wow your guests with inspiring tablescapes such as these–and do have a wonderful, wonderful party.
From HomeIntensive.com
Glamorous, sophisticated, intrigue are all offered in this classic black and white theme. The white masks and black attire are countered with white doves perched on the backs of chairs. A white lace tablecloth, candles and candle stick holder are accentuated with the black runner. A touch of the orient is found in the origami bird and soft pagoda-like shapes of the china ware.
From Mumum Designs
When you’re serving up the champagne, DON’T FORGET THE DESIGNATED DRIVERS. Have virgin cocktails ready for them when they walk in the door!
Create a special pin for their lapels saying something fun like
“I’m a Designated Driver
Not Accepting Alcohol Tonight . . .
But I Do Accept Kisses!”
Chic Coastal Living blogChic Coastal Living blogJust FamilyFrom My Home Ideas, a Toasting TablePartyCity.com
Celebration At Home blogFor the recipe, go to The CurvyCarrot.comFrom a blog called Cooking Book
Between Naps On The Porch
It’s difficult to say which tablescape is my favorite but I can say the next two really made it difficult . . . no, impossible to decide. But each gives wonderful tips on how to make many of the excellent detailed accents.
She created the place cards using mini silver picture frames. You can probably find lovely mini fames in vintage and consignment shops.
She “used 8″ x 10″ copies of clock faces. And, these simple glass plates….”
From Pizzazzerie, comes this stunning New Year’s Eve “Midnight Blue” themed dinner party for the rooftop of a condominium. And the place to be!!
Notice the details in the use of black-eye peas to hold the sparkle sticks. Black-eye peas, in case you are not aware, is a traditional NYE serving for good luck.Menu for the “Midnight Blue” theme dinner party designed by Pizzazzaerie
Of course, no NYE party is complete without the traditional singing of Auld Lange Syne (From the Wikipedia)
Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind ? Should old acquaintance be forgot, and old lang syne ?
CHORUS:
For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne, we’ll take a cup of kindness yet, for auld lang syne.
And surely you’ll buy your pint cup ! and surely I’ll buy mine ! And we’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet, for auld lang syne.
CHORUS
We two have run about the slopes, and picked the daisies fine ; But we’ve wandered many a weary foot, since auld lang syne.
CHORUS
We two have paddled in the stream, from morning sun till dine† ; But seas between us broad have roared since auld lang syne.
CHORUS
And there’s a hand my trusty friend ! And give me a hand o’ thine ! And we’ll take a right good-will draught, for auld lang syne.
HAVE A MERRY, MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM MY HOME TO YOURS!
It seems here at Annsliee studio, my tree top apartment, the time from Thanksgiving to Christmas just goes so fast. This year again I will be celebrating A Contemplative Christmas–alone. That is to say, a Christmas season truly focusing on what it means to me. No, it doesn’t mean I have forsaken or am ignoring family and friends. And it definitely does not mean this is a protest against what some would call the “commercialism” of Christmas. I say, bring the gifts as did the three magis! It simply means, for me, slowing down to an absolute crawl and luxuriating in spending a good amount of time alone. It’s precious time to reflect, to do some personal growth–and when I return to the real world, hopefully, find myself the better person.
Boston MA, One evening in December 2013 (Courtesy of Ellie M.)
Many people and for many reasons will find themselves alone, or at least think themselves alone: whether it is due to an illness, being out of town or even out of the country and away from family and friends or having to be at work or even on the space station. Some will be alone due to unreconciled disagreements with loved ones. Then there are those who simply choose to be alone. This blog is for those who choose to do so. And perhaps even for those who simply find themselves alone. I found some really wonderful ideas on the internet on making a Contemplative Christmas and even patted myself on the back for having already done some of them.
So if you choose a Contemplative Christmas, here are some things you can do:
*For Christians (or even the not so Christians), set aside time to read the story of Christ’s birth, imagine what it must have been like for Mary and Joseph in the winter months looking for a place to stay. Any parent who is expecting a child or given birth, especially in the worse conditions, can empathize with that night. You don’t have to be a Christian to appreciate Mary’s circumstances with not even a midwife to attend her.
*If you haven’t yet done so, decorate your home, your apartment, your room! Put a wreath on the door and let the world know you’re open to the meaning of Christmas: love, peace and joy!
Still in Boston, MA (Courtesy of Ellie M.)
Add a tree (big or small). My fondest memory of one Christmas was after working half day on Christmas eve, I rushed off to get a live Christmas tree. I thought it was small one, but after dragging it up three steep flights of stairs to my apartment, I swear to this day, the tree grew on the way up. It wasn’t very small, it was over 6′!
You don’t have to go for the big or elaborate decorated Christmas tree! Even a hint will bring a quiet smile to your face. Have fun and create your own Charlie Brown Christmas tree.
Add a bowl of your favorite ornaments to a cocktail table, a side table, your night stand, your dresser; better yet, add it to your dining table.
From Christmas Time in the Cityannsliee bowl of ornaments
Dining alone or just one other, dress up the table for dining such as adding a floor length table cloth and roses.
Speaking of dining, don’t forget to cook! Sip on a glass of wine while making up your menu (do an occasional gaze out the window), then off to the store, carefully walking up and down the isles filling your basket with your favorite holiday foods. Add one never-had-before food item. I love snacking on smoked oysters, green olives, cheese and crackers, and a great bottle of sherry–preferably Harvey’s Bristol Creme sherry.
You hate to cook! Not a problem. Order out. Now’s the time to go for your favorite foods. Pizza anyone? Or even try something new or different for a holiday meal–snow king crab legs with lots of garlic butter or a real ground sirloin 2″ thick burger where the juice runs down your arms. Just broil it in the oven. Love roasted leg of lamb? Don’t deny yourself! If you really can’t stand being that alone, drag a friend to the table for that lamb!
More and more restaurants are catering to folks who don’t want to cook for the holidays. I say God bless ’em. Just go early, if you want a good table:)
Christmas morning is one of the most quietest mornings for street traffic. It’s a wonderful time for that long, thoughtful walk. If you’re fortunate to live near a park, it’s the perfect place to go. Or just take a walk through the neighborhood, enjoying the outdoor Christmas lights and decorations. There is so little distraction, it almost cleanses the mind of “stuff.” As you slowly return home, let your thoughts turn to a special treat, like a nice hot Irish coffee cocktail. Take your time and have a late or should I say breakfast brunch. May I suggest switching pancake Saturday to pancake Christmas Day!
ABOUT THE IRISH COFFEE COCKTAIL
This hot, creamy classic Irish Coffee will warm you to the bone.
Ever tried no music? No TV? No cell or telephone calls? No internet (this is hard!)? Even for a short period of time? Having tried it, successful or not, still be sure to play Christmas music. The list of great Christmas DVDs is almost endless. It seems every artist has made an album. You don’t really have to wait for holidays to play them, they’er great anytime of the year. Include a thought-provoking book to read during your Contemplative Christmas or just a light-hearted book that is not too demanding. After all contemplation is about taking and using quiet time to gather and examine one’s thoughts and feelings.
In this very busy, hustling and bustling world we live in, Christmas becomes the ultimate punctuation of stress as we try to fulfill “made” obligations. You can still do this before and after Christmas but for people who choose the reflective Christmas, time is given to self. In the end, they come back the better person.
The list of things to do–or not do–is of course very long. And I would of course be remiss if I left out things to do if you simply are not in the contemplative mood. So I’m including here a list of sources that expand on some things to do when alone for Christmas–by choice or not:
Christmas season really is the most beautiful time of the year. However you choose to cherish it, I MUST add one more wonderful thing you can do. Scour the internet for Christmas flash mobs. They are great and will definitely put a smile on your face. Do start with remembering our men and women who serve in our armed forces and then
It’s that wonderful time of the year! It really is. You just have to take control and let yourself be inspired. Extra dinners with family and friends are quickly approaching. While you’re still working on the menus, here are a few inspirations for centerpieces and tablescapes.
But first, a word from the turkeys:
You don’t mean to . . . you don’t, do you! A roasted pig looks better on the table, don’t you think?
That being said by our fine feathered friends, let’s set the table!
The following is one of my favorites. The bouquet colors don’t quite fit with Thanksgiving but of course that can be remedied by making or purchasing a fall arrangement.
From Southern Living
I love these centerpieces. They’re so easy to put together!
Simple, yet stunningly beautiful centerpiece!
From Babble.com
But on a grand scheme, especially for a wining buffet, this will blow the minds of your guests:
When you live in a coastal town, as do I, a nautical tablescape is quite natural to have on any holiday . . . in fact, any day of the week:
Tablescapes can be glamorous or very traditional or formal or playful. But for those of us who prefer just the comfort of a lovely table, family and good friends, just a touch of love and simplicity fits best–as do the following table settings:
A fabulous tablescape story from Common Ground From Common Ground #2 From Common Ground #3 From Laura Casey Interiors LLC A must see blog for this setting is on Hampton Hostess
I’ll end here with just a couple of light but simple accent statements:
From Just Imagine And of course, a touch from Martha Stewart
You don’t mean to . . . you don’t, do you! 
A roasted pig looks better on the table, don’t you think?
From Southern Living
Simple, yet stunningly beautiful centerpiece!
From Babble.com
A fabulous tablescape story from Common Ground 
From Common Ground #2 
From Common Ground #3 
From Laura Casey Interiors LLC 
A must see blog for this setting is on Hampton Hostess
From 
And of course, a touch from Martha Stewart
annsliees 