Jacob_Laws' Blog

Thanksgiving is an opportunity to be appreciative of our blessings and show those closest to us that we care about them and what better way to do so around a stylishly appointed table while enjoying a fabulous menu?

The goal is to create an inviting atmosphere that will facilitate comfort and conversation. Making your guests feel relaxed engaged is what keeps the party alive.

Lighting is an easy way to add ambiance to your dinner party-I prefer dim lighting. It creates an intimacy that is lacking with brighter lighting and it can assist in creating an almost spiritual aspect that you’d otherwise miss.

Seating your friends and family closer around a table keeps the energy tight. I’m not a fan of dead or unused table space so if you have a larger table, create a focal point while utilizing available space by introducing a linear element like a long centerpiece down the center of the table. You don’t, however, want to overcrowd your guests or your table with elaborate appointments. Just use common sense.

-On my table I’ve played off the color of the dining room by incorporating apples similar in tone in glass hurricanes and then tied in the color of the green glaze of the urn with gourds that are accessible anywhere this time of year. I also added some touches that create a sense of nostalgia for me like the indian corn. My grandmother, who is always very chic and has impeccable taste, uses indian corn in her centerpieces every thanksgiving and it’s something I remember fondly. Also, it’s never a bad idea to take style cues from someone who you know has great taste.

Place settings should be kept simple for large meals like those here generously provided by Premier Rentals, a great source to show you how to throw a perfect party...

Last but definitely not least the food. Food quality is paramount. The stunning spread provided for us today from The Butler’s Pantry is certainly no exception. Food presentation is important to me too but it shouldn’t be intimidating. That doesn’t aid in making your guests comfortable. You want them to be impressed but you don’t want them to think you’re a snob.

Also, provide an appropriate wine or beverage to compliment your meal. Sometimes choosing a wine that appeals to all of your guests can be daunting so I suggest using a good sparkling wine. It’s less formal than champagne but still appeals to most palates Like these two both available at Schnucks.

If you aren’t a gourmet like the talented chefs at The Butler’s pantry, utilize other resources. A savvy host knows who has the best take out or what market has an appealing wine or sparkling wine. You don’t necessarily get extra points for doing it all from scratch. At an ideal Thanksgiving, everything would be prepared by hand and delicious but some of us aren’t so inclined.
I never claimed to be an entertaining know it all like Martha and sometimes I need some help creating the perfect get together but on that note I have to say, if it's done right, it isn’t a good thing, it’s a fabulous thing.