Make your centerpiece festive with seasonal touches

November 04, 2009 Written by: Tyna Lewis

Autumn is upon us and Thanksgiving is approaching, so take advantage of seasonal items around you to create a unique and memorable centerpiece for your holiday meals.

Forgo the dried flowers and cornucopias and make a centerpiece that also boasts mood lighting. Choose an odd number of large pillar candles, (three or five work best) and surround them with fake (or real) autumn leaves. Look around for dried branches or fake berries to add to the harvest feel of the piece - just make sure that the candle flames don't get too close!

Another way to create a festive look is by choosing one seasonal color, like yellow or orange, and creating a monochromatic decoration. If you decide on a golden yellow hue, fill a basket with yellow cherry tomatoes, small yellow squash, carrots and yellow peppers. Just make sure to eat them eventually!

Martha Stewart suggests using a pumpkin as a harvest-style vase. Scoop out a pumpkin as if you were carving a jack o'lantern and fill it with water and a bouquet of flowers. Thick, richly colored blooms like chrysanthemums, sunflowers and yellow roses will look beautiful during your Thanksgiving feast.