Hosting an Outdoor Friendsgiving
This past weekend, I hosted a small group of girlfriends for an intimate outdoor Friendsgiving in the courtyard. We were blessed with good weather, and even better food + company. I’m thrilled I was able to have everything captured, and am excited to share all of the vendors + tabletop sources that made this possible! Hopefully it will serve as inspiration if you’re still planning your table for next week. Everything linked can be purchased and will arrive prior to Thanksgiving.
Setting a Fall Tablescape
Designing + setting the table for this fall fete was just a blast. Bringing friends and loved ones together always brings me such joy, and even more-so when I can make it beautiful! I began this set up with the floral design. I knew I wanted that to be a primary focal point. More on that aspect below. From there, I opted for a more neutral color palette by way of this silky linen, muted mauve napkins and taupe plates. A little contrast is needed on any table, and I love how the tortoise water glasses + bamboo placemats provided the perfect touch of depth. It all came together beautifully, especially once the sun sank behind our fence line. Cafe lights, dripping candle wax…swoon. It was truly something magical.
Elegant Fall Centerpiece
While I wish I could take credit for these gorgeous blooms, I was lucky enough to have some assistance on that front. Talented local florist, Megan Chandler of Vero Designs, kindly put together this stunning centerpiece that really brought the table to life. Her use of seasonal stems such as mums, dahlias, dusty roses and even some autumn leaves/branches, was exceptional. I chose to stick with a more neutral colored linen as the base for the tablescape, which allowed the blooms to really shine.
Pear Place Cards
I’ve always loved how a layered table comes together. Through the tablecloth texture, to your napkins, woven details, florals + paper products. My sweet friend Markey beautifully calligraphed these torn paper name cards. Which paired beautifully alongside local bosc pears. Adding fruit or a sprig of greenery at each place setting is yet another way to incorporate different, organic shapes and colors that bring a bit of seasonality to your spread. Like this citrus themed luncheon from a few summer ago. Pears just felt fitting for this neutral + autumnal color scheme, but I also love the idea of persimmons or oranges used at each setting for more of a pop.
What to Wear for Thanksgiving
Any excuse for a new dress, am I right? While some Thanksgivings I’m more casual {talking jeans + a button down casual}, I much prefer a dress when the weather permits. This fall print midi dress is absolute perfection. A beautiful combination of fall hues {mustards, golds, greens and even a touch of pink}, with just the right amount of flow! I.e. a little extra room for turkey and all your favorite sides.
Charleston Thanksgiving Menu
None of this would have been made possible without the generosity of Hamby Catering. They also catered my wedding in 2016, and are truly the best of the best. They’re offering an incredible Thanksgiving spread to be enjoyed at hope, and I think all the gals at our outdoor friendsgiving {myself included} can attest to how delicious everything is! You can opt to order the whole spread, or al a cart to fill in the holes. Personal favorites include the sweet potato casserole + stuffing.
Charleston Vendors
Photography by Cushla Beasley
Catering by Hamby Catering
Florals by Vero Designs
Linen by Snyder Events