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Add some greenery
Don't use the kind that look overly fake. Try using a very soft, green garland, sprigs of Lambs Ear or olive branches to place amongst the crates and plates.

\"PHOTO:
Courtesy Jenny Reimold
PHOTO: Layer your table with various sizes and shapes and don't forget to add some turkeys for a festive touch!
>

Add candlelight
I follow the rule that you should never have fewer than four candles on the table. Candles add a warm, soft light that makes your setting glow. I like to use different variations from battery-operated candles to taper or tabletop lanterns that you can find at HomeGoods.

\"PHOTO:
Courtesy Jenny Reimold
PHOTO: Recreate this bright and modern look on your table this Thanksgiving.
>

Mix in the festive elements

Lanterns, pumpkins, baked goods, bowls of apples -- anything that represents fall to you. Place some of these on the crates, some on the runner and spread them out -- but leave about six inches of runner at both ends of the table.

Spread it outA Thanksgiving tablescape is a balancing act. Make sure you space everything out, so it doesn’t feel overcrowded and guests aren’t blocked from seeing or talking to one another during the meal. I use my table runner as a guide and start decorating from the middle and end of the table when the runner is about six inches from each table head.

\"PHOTO:
Courtesy Julie Blanner
PHOTO: Use mini pumpkins and fresh greenery to create a simple and elegant table runner before adding the rest of your Thanksgiving decor.
>

Lifestyle blogger Julie Blanner is constantly filling her feed with entertaining tips and tricks. This Thanksgiving she's sharing her top ideas for making a festive and functional DIY tablescape.

\"I’ve always enjoyed creating a beautiful table, often pulling from existing resources, whether it be candles and platters we always keep on hand or repurposing those pretty pumpkins we all rush out to purchase in early fall. These DIY Thanksgiving centerpieces are simple in both the ingredients and the process.\"

What's the first thing to do when planning a tablescape?
Consider how the table will be used. Will you be serving food plated, family style or buffet? If you're serving family-style, leave plenty of room for dishes (you can even put empty platters in place to work around). I tend to create low lying centerpieces to encourage conversation without impeding people from seeing one another.

Are there different themes or color schemes people should follow?
Only your heart. There is endless inspiration at the grocery store. Pick your favorite fruits, vegetables or flowers or look to your own backyard and you’ll find a theme that is easy to develop.

\"PHOTO:
Courtesy Julie Blanner
PHOTO: Use a large white pumpkin and fresh greenery or flowers to make a simple centerpiece for Thanksgiving.
>

When do you purchase flowers and greenery for the table?
If possible, purchase your flowers a day or two in advance. Most stores will even allow you to order your flowers and will hold them for you. You can also refrigerate them until you’re ready to use so they remain fresh.

Wheb should people arrange all the elements on the table?
Setting the table prior to the guests’ arrival not only eliminates another layer of stress the day of, but looks beautiful too. If you’re serving buffet-style and pre-set the table with utensils and napkins at each place setting, guests will have less to juggle. Incorporate activities like \"Thankful For\" Cards or a word search to occupy guests while you’re putting the final touches on the meal.

\"PHOTO:
Julie Blanner
PHOTO: Try this festive table setting using fresh fruit and pine cones for a simple fall feel.
>

Any major things to avoid?
Centerpieces that impede eye contact.

Blanner said that doing your centerpiece in advance is the pro move!

\"If you want to create your centerpiece in advance, choose pieces with longevity, like fruits, vegetables and greenery in lieu of flowers or use flowers in vases. Roses actually look their best on day two or three once they have the opportunity to fall into place.\"

Check out Blanner's easy 5-minute mini pumpkin tablerunner and other holiday table tips!

Jenny Reimold works with HomeGoods as a brand ambassador and style expert.

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