Traditions bring a calmness and renewed spirit to my life. A few years ago I started a new tradition over Thanksgiving by asking our guests to write down something they were thankful for over the past year. The following year I placed their original thoughts underneath their dinner plate as well as a new card to fill out. It was a total hit.
It was a time of personal reflection during what can be a chaotic and energetic tradition, the Thanksgiving meal. This year, if they wish, our guests will once again fill out a new card (found these Thankful Cards at Paper Source this year), document their gratitude from the past year, and be reminded of how life may have changed over the past year by reading their 2012 Thanksgiving Thankful Card. It’s a gesture guests will appreciate.
Name cards are another way to bring a personal touch to your table and it doesn’t need to be complicated. To accent your place card, grab a dozen pears or clementines or head outside to find natural goodness around you!
Brown Ink Paper Goods also sells perfect place cards for your Thanksgiving feast setting (Still plenty of time, shipping is on us for these pretty things!)
So before you head off to pick up the turkey and puree the pumpkin, take a look at my favorite pics from Design Sponge’s Thanksgiving Table series where they’ve showcased beautiful settings created by fellow designers over the past few years. Inspirational to say the least!
Eddie Ross gets creative by using walnuts for place cards
Brilliant use of piano music by House of Brinson
Stamped place setting cards created by children (designers Rinne Allen & Lucy Allen Gillis)
Known for his nature-filled aesthetic, John Derian believes place cards create an even flow on the table. Here he uses his own name cards to create his charming Thanksgiving table.
Austin-based Spartan keeps the fuss out with this pared down yet warm setting
Designer Matt Armendariz uses wrapping paper tied to gourds with blue string.
My favorite store in Portland, OR, Alder & Co. keeps the table minimal yet stylish. I love the salut! name cards with the simple gold bell attached.
Keep it simple for Thanksgiving, maybe create a new tradition and reflect just a bit before enjoying that second or third piece of pie.