Written by Jane Armbruster, Relate Intern
The Halloween decorations are back in storage, and now it’s time to prepare your dorm or family home for Thanksgiving. It’s time to erect festive fall pieces to provide pre-holiday warmth to any space. But what are some ways to accomplish such a homely environment? It’s easier and less expensive than you think.
Centerpieces are a great way to add drama and interest to a dining room setting, a coffee tabletop or a kitchen windowsill. And the common theme: nature. I think we can all agree that transforming foliage is the standout autumnal event, so it’s best to use this theme in your crafty creations. Because of this, centerpiece items can be found right outside your front door. Find freshly fallen, vibrantly colorful leaves (traditional maple and Japanese maple leaves offer the perfect, complex shade of bright red) to add to your centerpiece. Additionally, natural elements like pine cones, cranberries or even dramatically shaped twigs and tree limbs can be collected and added. Try to find a variety of shapes and colors, while avoiding greens and other cool tones.
But now that you’ve collected a variety of different items, how should they be organized into a centerpiece arrangement? The easiest way to achieve an attractive piece is to purchase a glass container from a craft or discount store. The more uniquely shaped, the better. One of our favorite large container shapes: the extra large brandy snifter. This drinking glass-inspired shape resembles a balloon-like glass goblet with a pedestal base…plus it’s enormous! Overall, it’s a retro, glamorous container, which is common and can be attained easily and inexpensively. Place previously collected items randomly in the snifter, and your centerpiece is complete!
If your planned centerpiece is for a special event or occasion and is not for same day use, there are simple ways to store your natural ingredients. First, before placing in the glass container, rinse all elements and lay flat to dry. For storage, insert items in plastic bags and place in refrigerator until future date. Durability depends on the type of leaf and items used, so keep an eye on your ingredients on a day-to-day basis. Never plan for a centerpiece more than one week in advance.
Autumnal centerpieces can be some of the most beautiful representations of the season, so stay natural, stay affordable and stay creative with your decorations.
