Volume 30: November

Thanksgiving Wishes

A Table of Thankfulness

Food, Family, Friends, and Furnishings

The idea of gathering around the table with friends and family for the Thanksgiving holiday is a tradition that has been around for centuries. Whether it’s a formal, sit-down dinner or a casual buffet, it’s a time to appreciate each other’s company and to give thanks for all that we have. One thing that ties it all together is the table, or in the case of our Thanksgiving, tables. Kids' table, anyone?

A table is an essential piece of furniture in any dining room. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s also a place to gather, to converse, and to create memories. That’s why it’s important to choose the right table when decorating your dining room.

With so many styles to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow it down. We have enjoyed sourcing quite a few at Kirk Riley Design over the years. You could go for a classic, traditional look with leaves in a mahogany or cherry wood table. For a lighter and more modern style look for a glass or metal table which also works well in a smaller space. A mix of brushed brass and a warm, live-edge wood top is an interesting combination! This season we are loving this one from Anthropologie: Nemus Dining Table | AnthroLiving (anthropologie.com) The wishbone legs have our hearts fluttering!

Pro tip: Keep in mind the size and shape of the table you will need for your space. Aside from the table, the other elements of the dining room should be considered as well. Chairs, for example, are best when both comfortable and stylish. If you prefer a rustic alternative, opt for benches in a matching wood to accompany your dining table. Needing to maximize space? An upholstered banquette with a pedestal table make the perfect combo! To add a touch of warmth and texture to the room, add rugs and curtains as well.

No matter what style of table you choose, it’s important to pay attention to the details. On Thanksgiving day especially, the dining table is the visual centerpiece of the holiday and small touches can go a long way. Just this weekend I was setting the table for one of my family’s favorite dishes (Brussel sprouts!) with my antique brass candle holders, rust-color embroidered Anthropologie tablecloth, mother-of-pearl handled flatware from my mom and yes–the plates are from Goodwill. We’ve found that just a few candles, seasonal flowers, and other personal decor can really help to create a beautiful, inviting atmosphere that will make your Thanksgiving dinner that much more special!

In the theme of thankfulness, we at Kirk Riley Design wanted to share with you a list of some of the things we are most thankful for this holiday season:

Family near, far, and those departed but remembered always.
Cherished friends, new & old who make life that much sweeter.
And…YOU! We can’t thank our dear clients enough for trusting us with designing their homes! Home is a special and personal space that we are grateful to be a part of.
Traveling. When relatives live in another state or country, we are grateful for the ability to cross oceans or mountains to see each other.
On a personal note, I’m grateful for my health in 2023 as last year was a bit difficult navigating health issues as well as COVID. It’s been almost a year exactly of working on my healing journey and I’m so appreciative of our resources in Seattle.

Not that I’m rushing through Thanksgiving but it is time to talk Christmas… O’Christmas Tree that is! You may have seen the fun I've shared on social media over the years as I’ve been a supporter of Providence O’Christmas Trees ever since I learned about the program in 2010. Here’s your opportunity to make a memory and take the family to the Westin THIS Monday from 4 – 7 to kick off your holiday festivities.