We're all pushed for time when preparing for the holidays so DIY is sometimes the best option if you need something done quickly. With the big Thanksgiving feast around the corner, creating a festive table display is top of the agenda and, for most of us, it helps if it's something quick and easy.
Thankfully designer Joanna Gaines has just shared her own easy Thanksgiving table decor ideas that can all be created from cuttings from your own backyard.
'Random little fact, when I opened Magnolia in 2003 I used to sell fresh florals, and I also did some weddings for some of my customers, so I’ve always loved doing arrangements,' explains Joanna in her recent Instagram video.
The final result is a beautiful and layered floral arrangement that would be perfect for both a Thanksgiving or Christmas table. And the setup is surprisingly easy to replicate – these are Joanna's simple steps to recreate her Thanksgiving tablescape in your own home.
1. Cut your branches
The first step is straightforward. Open your back door and scour your garden's contents. There are no rules about what foliage you use, it's completely unrestricted as it's all about taking what you already have and creating something unique.
Joanna says, 'I was in the mood to do an arrangement for the table for Thanksgiving this week. I wanted to go to the florist but I also wanted to stay in my PJs so I decided to challenge myself and go outside and cut stems from all over the farm.'
It really is as simple as that. Take some cutting shears or (kitchen scissors if your branches are fine enough) and snip away at the stem of your chosen plant. Remember to wear gardening gloves to avoid any pricks from thorns or holly. Vary the lengths of your branches to create an interesting, textured centerpiece. Keep everything longer at this point, you can always takeaway length but you can't add it back.
2. Select a vase and prep the inside
Next, select a vase or pot that's large enough to hold your selection of branches. Magnolia has some beautiful stone pots like the one Joanna uses in the video. But if you're working to a deadline, use a vase you already have as DIY is all about utilizing your own materials.
Joanna has a nifty hack for keeping your foliage upright and in place. She says, 'I brought the stems inside, got a waterproof vase, and shoved some chicken wire in.' If you don't have any Chicken wire lying around, it's available in most hardware or craft stores – like this Galvanized Chicken Wire By Ashland from Micheals.
'Then I started putting the branches in to create a really pretty asymmetrical yet dramatic arrangement for the table,' continues Joanna. The holes in the wire make it easy to slot twigs into and prevent any from slipping to the bottom. Each branch has its own space and can stand proudly amongst the foliage.
The rough, clay surface of the Adrienne vases harks back to Roman vessels. These pair well with pretty much any colour as they're neutral. They also come in various sizes!
This Black Round Concrete Vase is unique in both shape and style. It would make a statement at the center of a dining table or perched in an entryway.
This delicate little vase is tall, making it perfect for those elegant branches and flowers. The vessel looks great with either a few sparse stems or a large bunch of foliage.
3. Arrange branches of varying types and lengths
This last step is the most important when creating a successfully arranged bouquet. Joanna's display has a lot of impact, achieved by combining several types of foliage to really layer up the textures and create plenty of depth.
She explains, 'I always like to add different tones and textures. I love this little Magnolia stem, it’s super-saturated so it adds more impact and a little more depth of color.' You can stick to one color if you like, but it's key to vary the shades in your arrangement. Joanna chooses a few different greens which create a more intricate framework.
'I mix that with those really pretty blue Spruce stems and these tiny little Ligustrum berries,' she adds. Spruce and pine branches are perfect for creating a festive feel, they're reminiscent of Christmas trees and produce that lovely fresh, holiday scent.
Joanna gives a handy tip for arranging your display. 'I always like to add a taller branch on the left and right of the arrangement so it creates a little more drama.' While it's important to vary lengths in the center, the side pieces should be longer to get that pronounced drapery effect.
A traditional and festive choice for your arrangement. The Real Touch Maeve Pine Spray is adorned with pine cones to bring a wintery feel and a varied color palette.
It doesn't have to be just leafy greens, why not incorporate some florals in your display? These Fall Blossom Spray branches are ideal for adding colour and elegance to any arrangement.
These Pine branches have a silver sheen which looks great against any colour. Pair with a red berry branch for a real contrast.
These simple steps have arrived just in time for table-scaping for your big feast. Joanna says, 'Have fun setting your holiday table and I hope you have a very happy Thanksgiving.’ And so do we!
