By most standards, Thanksgiving is pretty much the most maximalist holiday of the year — and that’s a bold statement considering it’s sandwiched between Halloween and Christmas. Those other celebrations definitely take things to the extreme, but they really don’t hold a candle to the excesiveness that is Thanksgiving.
On Thanksgiving, the bigger the turkey, the better. We cram as much stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce into our bellies as possible in one sitting — but still manage to save enough room for pumpkin pie and other yummy Turkey Day desserts. Thanksgiving is when we give our stretchy pants a run for the money. It’s go big or go home time.
The only exception? We think there’s a case to be made that minimalist decor is just what our Thanksgiving table needs to balance out the decadence of everything else. This Thanksgiving, let the food be the star by setting a chic, modern table.
Originally published October 2016. Updated October 2017.
DIY Thanksgiving coasters
Every time your guests lift their glasses, they’ll get a hint of holiday cheer.
DIY clay bowl place card holder
Gilded clay bowls double as minimalist place card holders and gifts for your Thanksgiving guests.
Modern Menus
Do away with the stodgy calligraphy and opt for clean, modern menus instead.
Natural modern
A sprig of sage brings life to sparse white plates and linens, along with small gourds and a sleek horn.
Rustic modern tablescape
A rustic wooden table with a linen table runner and golden candle holders make for a modern yet rustic look.
Simple silverware
This simple printable is a modern way to present your silverware, no napkin ring needed.
Natural neutrals
Swap out the bright oranges, reds and yellows of fall in favor of a light, neutral color palette.
Sleek servers
Golden serving spoons in a sleek, modern design add just enough glamor to your minimal tablescape.
Rosemary sprig place cards
Pairing sleek black napkins with a rosemary-adorned place card is a simple way to make a big impact.
Green runner
Run a line of green foliage and white tapers down the table in lieu of more ornate centerpieces.
Ceramic serving dish
Forgo the cheesy leaf-printed serving-ware and opt for this gray and gold ceramic platter.
Golden place tags
Put a modern spin on nature by spray-painting leaves gold and using them as place cards on white plates.
Keep it simple
Choose a single, simple centerpiece and pair it with neutral tableware and linens for a cool, calm look.
Woodland deer table runner
A neutral table runner with a simple print adds just enough Thanksgiving flair to your table.
Hanging pumpkins
Geometric sculptures holding tiny white pumpkins and air plants will make a statement this Thanksgiving.
Golden neutrals
A variety of textures and neutral colors paired with gold make for minimalist decor with surprising depth.
In the clear
Clear glass plates and vases keep your table simple — the focus is on your table and linens.
DIY holiday napkin rings
Copper paint and polymer clay are all you need to make these simple yet festive napkin rings.
Lucite Thanksgiving table
It doesn’t get much simpler than a lucite table decorated with a few gold pumpkins and branches.
DIY metallic leaf tealight holders
Just a couple of these metallic leaf candle holders on your table will set the scene without going overboard.
Simple Thanksgiving place setting
Eucalyptus sprigs tied with leather cord around white napkins gives your table a clean, autumnal look.
Minimalist Table Decor
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