Festive, Bountiful Centerpieces Help Set a “Thankful” Mood at Thanksgiving Tables

Elm Grove, Wis. – Many people understandably equate Thanksgiving with eating. Yet, the table’s contents at this holiday feast don’t have to be limited to platters, plates and silverware.

A festive centerpiece of flowers or plants can set the table early for a bountiful, joyous gathering. Its colors aren’t limited to the traditional oranges, yellows and reds of autumn, either. Opportunity abounds to display an eye-catching arrangement that will brighten the mood of all dining.

“What colors are prominent in the tablecloth, dishes or dining room at Thanksgiving? A centerpiece can easily be matched to these surroundings, even if they aren’t typical fall colors,” said Denise Barnett, co-owner of Snapdragon Flowers of Elm Grove. “If a host’s goal is to create an inviting table, few things are as welcoming as a floral arrangement or live plant that truly reflects nature’s gifts.”

Traditional flowers such as sunflowers, lilies and roses are always centerpiece-ready, Barnett said. An arrangement can be greatly enlivened with flowering kale, fall mums, natural grasses, the entrancing texture of leucadendron, or the whites, greens and corals of hypericum berries.

If dinner is served buffet-style, an attractive center arrangement can be enjoyed at the table for the entire meal. For family-style dining, where Thanksgiving table space is often at a premium, the centerpiece might need to be removed while people are eating, and returned later for after-dinner conversation. Either way, Barnett said, guests will appreciate the beauty and cheer that a well-designed floral piece emanates.

She offered tips for bringing flowers or plants as a gift. Sending a centerpiece to a host’s home early allows them to design their table around it. If an arrangement or plant isn’t destined for the Thanksgiving table, the guest can bring something for the host’s powder room or main foyer.

Reusable centerpieces or arrangements – “permanent botanicals,” in floral lexicon – are often welcomed, Barnett said. From orchids to evergreens, sunflowers to succulents, amazingly realistic options are available for every season and style. Dried plants, also reusable, offer another universe of creative possibilities.

“Food and family are always the main focuses of Thanksgiving,” Barnett said. “Floral arrangements and centerpieces help set the holiday mood, and make any table that much more welcoming.”

Located in the heart of downtown Elm Grove, Snapdragon Flowers provides fresh, beautiful flowers and plants for people, events and occasions throughout southeastern Wisconsin. Its unique, innovative arrangements and designs are destined to bring smiles when desired, and comfort when needed. More information is available by calling (262) 782-8380 or visiting www.elmgroveflowershop.com.