Inspired Thanksgiving Table Decor

Skip autumn gourds and maple leaves, and opt for a lighter, sunnier palette this holiday season

Credit: Heather Ross

Inspired Thanksgiving Table Decor

Here in Canada we’re fortunate to celebrate Thanksgiving in early October when it’s often still sunny and balmy. While the meal might be heavy, the setting doesn’t need to be. Why not forgo typical orange and brown and embrace a lighter, sunnier palette while the weather’s still shining bright.

Photographer, stylist and retailer Heather Ross has put together her top picks for a different take on holiday entertaining. Here, Ross mixes metals, natural textiles, gold-rimmed Limoges china, crystal and sterling silver swan salt cellars for a elegant, yet rustic look.

Limoges sauce boat, $98; napkin rings, $85 per set, mercury glass, $19.95; sterling silver swan salt cellars, $125 each; silver tray, $145.All accessories Heather Ross {Natural Eclectic}.

Credit: Heather Ross

Vintage Pearl

This delicate, vintage pearl set of carving utensils is perfectly suited for anyone who appreciates the lighter touch of things. As long as you are breaking with tradition, why not let the lady of the table do the carving?

Vintage carving set, $165.

Credit: Heather Ross

White Linen

There is nothing more elegant than pure, white linen on the table. These handwoven napkins have a soft, relaxed feel, especially when folded simply and paired with these adorable acorn ornaments that double as napkin rings. Ready-made twine loops slip easily around the linens. Guests can take them home as a keepsake and use again next holiday season.

Hand spun napkins, $65 for a set of four. Acorn ornaments and twine, $5.95 each.

Credit: Heather Ross

Natural Centrepiece

For an original centrepiece, try pulling from both your imagination and from nature. Pine cones, branches, dried reeds and ethereal magnolia leaves can be bought in craft and floral stores, but it’s much more fun to go out into the forest. Foraging in the outdoors is a great way to spend family time together before preparing a feast. Here, natural elements are tied onto a vintage trophy with twine. An amber cake stand gives the ornamental display stature.

Vintage trophy, $45; amber glass cake stand, $35-$58.

Credit: Heather Ross

Whimsical Accessories

Bring a little folly into your tablescape with these glass nesting hens. They are perfectly suited for a Thanksgiving dinner and will keep your food warm too. While they might make you think of your grandma’s kitchen, they are a top collector’s item right now!

Vintage nesting hens, $45-$58.

Photographer, stylist and writer Heather Ross contributes on regular basis for publications such as BCLiving, Western Living and Canadian House & Home. She has a background in fine art and design and her paintings have been placed in numerous collections. Her personal blog focuses on cultivating a nature-inspired life of elegance and authenticity. She runs her own boutique, which features a mix of old and new treasures. Heather loves to bake, garden, travel and explore the natural world.