Thrift Your Way to a Breathtaking Thanksgiving Table

Planning a memorable Thanksgiving celebration with friends and family takes some planning and consideration, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. If you’re hosting this year, let Ohio Valley Goodwill help you put together a beautiful table that will set the tone for a warm and inviting Thanksgiving holiday!

Here’s how you can use thrifted items to put together a charming Thanksgiving table:

Plan Your Color Scheme

The first step to creating a beautiful and cohesive tablescape is to choose a color scheme. Decide on colors that reflect the fall season and provide warmth to your gathering. Earthy tones like oranges, yellows, reds, and deep greens work well. Keep this color scheme in mind while selecting items from the thrift store.

Gather Essential Tableware

One of the greatest benefits of using thrifted items for your Thanksgiving meal is the uniqueness they will bring to your table design. Look for vintage or mismatched dishes, glassware, and silverware. It’s okay if they don’t match perfectly; eclectic combinations can add charm to your table!

Consider these items:

• Dinner plates
• Salad plates
• Soup bowls
• Wine glasses or water goblets
• Silverware (forks, knives, spoons)
• Dessert dishes
• Cloth napkins in fall colors or patterns
• Napkin holders

Choose a Tablecloth or Table Runner

Your tablecloth or table runner acts as a base to the table design. Goodwill thrift stores often have a variety of unique options to fit your theme. Look for autumnal patterns, solid colors, or vintage designs, but remember that you’ll be layering your table with table settings, centerpieces, and possibly serving dishes, so avoid patterns that overwhelm. The pieces you choose for your table should complement one another, not compete.

Create a Centerpiece

Retail centerpieces are pricy and often predictable. Instead, shop Goodwill to find items that contribute to a stunning centerpiece! Mix and match thrifted items with natural pieces such as pumpkins to complete your design. Consider these thrifty ideas you can easily find at Goodwill:

• A vintage vase or pitcher filled with fall flowers or dried arrangements.
• Candleholders or lanterns with candles in fall scents like cinnamon or pumpkin spice.
• A decorative tray with a collection of gourds, pinecones, and acorns.
• Faux pumpkins or gourds, branches, or leaves to scatter on a table runner.

Accessorize with Thrifted Decor

Look for small decor items to add character to your table. At Goodwill, you can find:

• Place card holders or vintage name tags for a personal touch.
• Wooden or ceramic figurines that reflect the season, such as turkeys or pumpkins.
• Seasonal placemats or coasters.

Incorporate Linens

Cloth napkins and placemats add a classy touch to any table setting. You can often find vintage or hand-embroidered linens at Goodwill thrift stores, which add a beautiful touch. Fold the napkins creatively, add a thrifted napkin holder, or tie them with twine for a rustic look.

Give Thanks with Those You Love

Once your table is set, step back and admire your handiwork. Your Thanksgiving table will not only look beautiful, but it will also tell the unique story of your thrift store treasures. It’s all about creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your guests to enjoy the holiday.

Remember that when you shop at your nearest Ohio Valley Goodwill thrift store, you’re helping us provide job skills training and employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities in our community. There’s no better time to practice gratitude and pay it forward. We’re thankful for your support this season!