Created by Chicweed, Solana Beach
Photo credit: Gail Owens
Friends and family gather for Thanksgiving dinner expecting a marvelous meal. You will add to the enjoyment of everyone, including yourself, with a little pre-planning and some artful ambience.
Tips for a Perfect Holiday
Do as much as possible ahead of time.
Purchase flowers a few days early so buds have time to open.
Polish anything silver and use as holders for floral arrangements, hors d’oeuvre picks, etc.
Mix and match the china, both new and antique.
Choose place mats and chargers — they don’t have to match either.
Make arrangements of garden leaves, ornamental grasses and seedpods if you have them. Add flowers chosen for fall colors but don’t be afraid to mix textures and shapes, e.g. orange calla lilies and protea, rosehips, radishes and cockscomb.
Place a bountiful arrangement by the mantel, a sideboard or the front door — all are good locations.
Use rustic or antique-looking containers. They work well for this holiday.
Don’t forget the visual variety of seasonal produce like squash, gourds and root vegetables.
Pair salmon-colored roses and green apples in small arrangements on snowy white linen — like one designer we know
Add magic after sundown with candles of varying height.
Welcome your guests to a bountiful Thanksgiving 
Polish anything silver and use as holders for floral arrangements, hors d’oeuvre picks, etc.