After spending the past year renovating our 1881 farmhouse, we’re excited to finally host Thanksgiving in our new home. But even if you’re celebrating in a city apartment or a cozy rental, there’s something timeless about gathering around a beautiful Thanksgiving table. The glow of candlelight, the clink of plates, the smell of something delicious in the oven — it all comes together in those few slow, wonderful hours when everyone sits down at once.
This year, I wanted my table to feel natural and effortless — layers of texture, a little shine, and pieces I can reuse for other holidays just by switching out a few elements. If you’re planning your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving table, here are some of my favorite pieces and ideas to create a warm, welcoming setting.
Start with Layers: Tablecloth & Runner
A beautiful table always starts with texture. I fell in love with this Maison d’Hermine Kashmir Paisley Tablecloth because it feels elevated but not fussy. The rich autumn tones give just enough color without overwhelming the rest of the table.
On top, I layered a macramé table runner with tassels. Its natural fibers add a soft, handmade touch that complements wood, ceramics, or glass equally well. The mix of woven texture over cotton creates that perfect blend of cozy and intentional — like your table just happens to look magazine-ready.
Build from Nature: Dinnerware, Chargers & Napkins
I love dinnerware that feels good in your hands — substantial, with a little bit of variation in the glaze. This 12-piece ribbed stoneware set in cappuccino white strikes the balance between modern and organic. Each piece has subtle ridges and creamy undertones that pair beautifully with warm wood and brass accents.
For under each plate, I love these rustic wood-look charger plates with scalloped edges. They add that grounding, earthy layer that instantly makes your dinnerware pop. Chargers also help contain crumbs and spills, so you get beauty and practicality (which is always a win).
For napkins, I chose handmade cotton-linen napkins in a natural linen with a fringed edge. The soft color keeps things neutral while still nodding to the season — and the fringe adds movement and charm. If you prefer a little more color, the rose, terracotta, or sage green versions would also be beautiful options that still feel organic and easy to mix in with other table settings throughout the year.
Add Glow: Candles & Holders
No table feels complete without candlelight. This year I’m using Northern Lights Autumn Harvest taper candles — classic, unscented, and perfectly colored for fall. They’re solid all the way through, so they burn beautifully and evenly during dinner.
To hold them, I swapped my usual brass set for these amber ribbed glass candleholders. Their stacked, pumpkin-inspired shape gives just a hint of the season without feeling overly themed, and the amber glass casts a soft, vintage-style glow that makes the whole table feel warmer. I love that they bring a bit of antique charm while still fitting seamlessly into modern or boho decor. Scatter them down the table or cluster them together for a layered, candlelit look that feels cozy but not cluttered.
Updated Stemware Paragraph
To finish setting the scene, don’t forget the glasses — they’re often the unsung heroes of a beautiful table. I’m using [Physkoa hand-blown crystal wine glasses]([Affiliate link]) with tall stems and a soft square shape that feels timeless but still distinct. Their clear, weighty crystal catches the candlelight beautifully and adds that subtle sparkle every table needs.
I’m also eyeing these [BACLIFE hand-blown wine glasses]([Affiliate link]), which have a slightly unexpected tulip-meets-modern silhouette. They feel a bit more sculptural — the kind of glass that instantly makes a simple pour of wine (or sparkling cider) look intentional. Both styles balance elegance with warmth and would work effortlessly year-round, from cozy winter dinners to summer gatherings on the patio.
Little Details, Big Impact: Napkin Rings & Place Cards
Sometimes it’s the smallest touches that make the biggest impression. These Harvest Acorn brass napkin rings are subtle but stunning — just enough shimmer to catch the candlelight without feeling flashy. I love that they hint at the season in a soft, understated way.
For place settings, I’m using these rustic wood place card holders with kraft cards. They make it easy to mark each seat, but they’re also great for labeling dishes on a buffet or displaying small photos. The real-wood texture ties everything together, adding an organic, welcoming feel — and because they’re so neutral, they’d work just as beautifully on a Christmas table or even at a summer barbecue.
A Centerpiece That Invites Conversation
When it comes to centerpieces, I’m a believer in keeping things low and natural. This three-piece mason jar centerpiece with LED lights feels perfectly autumnal without blocking anyone’s view. It’s just the right height to see over while you talk, and the soft glow of the string lights adds warmth even before the candles are lit.
If you want to make it your own, you can easily swap in foraged leaves, eucalyptus, or even small gourds. I like to tuck in a few sprigs of dried grasses from the yard to bring in that natural, textural element.
Serve in Style
Once the table is set, it’s time to think about serving. These oval serving platters in vanilla white are my go-to for everything from turkey and roasted vegetables to dessert spreads. They come in three sizes, which means you can serve an entire meal on coordinated pieces without cluttering the table.
For a finishing touch, I like to add natural wood utensils, like this leaf-shaped serving set. They’re almost too pretty to use — carved with delicate curves that look like actual leaves — but sturdy enough for tossing salads or serving stuffing.
Updated Stemware
To finish setting the scene, don’t forget the glasses — they’re often the unsung heroes of a beautiful table. I usually use these Physkoa hand-blown crystal wine glasses with tall stems and a soft square shape that feels timeless but still distinct. Their clear, weighty crystal catches the candlelight beautifully and adds that subtle sparkle every table needs.
I’m also eyeing these hand-blown wine glasses, which have a slightly unexpected tulip-meets-modern silhouette. They feel a bit more sculptural — the kind of glass that instantly makes a simple pour of wine (or sparkling cider) look intentional. Both styles balance elegance with warmth and would work effortlessly year-round, from cozy winter dinners to summer gatherings on the patio.
Pieces That Work Beyond Thanksgiving
What I love most about all these pieces is how versatile they are. With a quick switch — white tapers for winter, fresh greenery for spring — you can reuse almost everything for Christmas, New Year’s, or casual dinners with friends.
The key is focusing on natural materials and timeless shapes. Cotton, stoneware, glass, and wood never go out of style, and they mix effortlessly with whatever seasonal touches you add.
At the end of the day, it’s less about the perfect tablescape and more about how your space feels when everyone gathers. Whether you’re setting a table for two or a crowd, it’s those layered textures, flickering candles, and thoughtful little details that make the moment feel special.
More from Redwood & Roses
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- Romanticize October: Finding Beauty in the Everyday
- Fall Fragrance Edit: Scents That Last
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