Thanksgiving Tablescape with Freshly Fallen Acorns

Thanksgiving is almost here and designing a natural but inviting tablescape will be part of the fun of entertaining!  There are so many ways to make it special by just using items on hand.  For our Thanksgiving table this year, I created a centerpiece made of objects found in nature, many of which came from our own backyard.  This tablescape features acorns, pinecones, and a few colorful accents like berries and pomegranates.  When these items are arranged on trays or platters they introduce a warm, rustic feeling. 

Since we have a long rectangular table, I used two coordinating arrangements in the center.  The one shown above presents a boxwood and berry combination in a wooden pot.  To create this piece, I clipped several green boxwood sprigs and trimmed them to be about the same size, just a few inches taller than the pot.  Then I put the sprigs into a jar of water placed in the pot, packing them tightly to create a natural effect.  Pink, beige, and orange berries from our nandina bush were added to the mix for a splash of color.  (The pink and beige berries were clipped about a month ago before they turned the striking orange tone.)  Lastly, I placed the pot on a silver tray and added acorns, pinecone roses and pomegranates to the display. 

Acorns, pinecone roses (see Hunting and Gathering post) and a sprig of flaming orange nandina berries dress up a simple silver serving tray in this candle arrangement.  The height and light from the candle create a focal point on the table and the natural objects offer color and texture.

These are detailed photos of some of the natural materials I selected to style our table.  I chose from what was available to me, but a similar display could be created with almost any natural autumn fruits, nuts, etc.  It would be interesting to see your variations on this theme!

Here basic white dishes are layered with turkey salad plates to make a festive table setting.  Amber goblets and dark brown brandy glasses highlight the autumn hues.

This post has been shared on French Country Cottage's Feathered Nest Friday.